From the artists collection Manifestation of light and energy, 2024, 1/1, Chromatic Halide-Lift Silver Gelatin Print, Archival Cold Mounted on Arches Aquarelle Acid Free Paper, 11 x 10.75 inches.

Artist Statement:

From the caves of Lascaux to digital icons, humans have delved into meaning from gestural drawings, symbols, and forms. This project is an exploration in Buddhism that is articulated with chemical transformations of expired silver gelatin paper. The physical transformation allows expression that becomes a personal and meditative experience. As with Buddhist principals, I interpret the growth of self through the idea of Samsara: an everlasting cycle of life, death, the flow of energy into the cosmos, and rebirth, emulated in a series of chemical reactions on silver-gelatin paper surfaces. These are articulations of my own mortality, and how the interactions of recent family passings and tragedies reverberate throughout human experience. My experience is not unique; however, as a person having reached mid-life, this life feels more real and present. Time is of the essence and this exploration is an expression of my human condition.

Process:

Images are created on Fiber-Based Gelatin Paper using Chromoskedasic chemicals, developers, toners, and a physical expression using brushes, time, and light manipulations. Renamed Chromatic Halide Lift, the mirror-like surface of the silver gelatin print is impossible to interpret in reproduction. The process begins with an unexposed (or in the rare occasions, a Photogram exposure) that is then placed in developer to begin the process. Applying a light-arresting agent, I can turn on the light and then begin painting with additional developers, historic and handmade toners, and manipulation of temperature, dilution, and time. Prints can take up to an hour to execute. All images begin with an idea of expression. Artworks are 1 of 1 with no reproduction or reprints. 11x14 inch Gelatin Silver Fiber-Based Paper, archival washed, and toned for longevity. Archival cold-mounted on acid-free Arches Cold-Pressed Paper for flush-mounted framing.

Bio:

Frank Lopez is a visual artist specializing in 19th – 21st century photographic integration. Frank has instructed at the university, secondary, and professional workshop level since 1990 and is a frequent lecturer based on experimental and cultural imagery. Frank leads the international award-winning, issues-based photography program at Greenhill School that integrates 19 th – 21 st century techniques, and is also a Faculty Leader, the highest faculty award. In 2020, Frank was awarded the Center Santa Fe Callanan Award for Photographic Teaching Excellence. Furthermore, he won the Dallas Observer MasterMind award in 2011, recognizing artists making a significant cultural contribution to the City of Dallas.