CONVERSATION WITH THE ARTIST
CARLA ANDERSON
What are you currently working on?
We (Larry Melkus and I) are currently preparing the work I shot in Hawaii last fall. It is a continuation of the “Chosen Silences” landscapes. The nature of these images differ due to the lush vegetation. I am also trying to complete “Sight—Sound: 10 haiku by Bill Harris after Carla Anderson photographs.” This 36 page volume contains 10 haiku by Kresge Eminent Artist awardee Bill Harris, 10 tipped (mounted onto the page) photographs, and an introductory essay by Dennis Nawrocki. It is hand printed in letterpress on Somerset Radiant White paper, and will be hand bound. The printing and binding is the work of Megan O’Connell, Proprietor of Salt & Cedar Letterpress. A slipcase for the book is being produced.
Has the format of your practice been impacted in the last few weeks? Are you using different mediums or sizes?
The format of my practice has changed. First, the binding of the book has ceased at this time due to the necessity to take the health of those involved into consideration. Larry Melkus, Fine Art Printing, and I only work for a couple of hours at a stretch rather than 4-6. Instead of sitting next to each other at the computer, I’m sitting 6 feet behind him. We are both wearing masks which feels like living in a swamp. Furthermore, it is impossible to plan any photographic journeys as we don’t know how long the current situation will remain in effect. I am uncertain as where and what I will be able to photograph this year. That is creating anxiety.
Does the social distancing aspect of this period help you focus or has it changed the trajectory of your work?
I feel at sixes and sevens since the immediate landscape available to me is not very appealing. I’m trying to sort out a new project.
Are there any apps or online tools that you find helpful in this time? (They don't need to be related to art making).
National Theatre Live is showing, through Utube, a production every week. It is free of charge. Trying to read and view art related work as well.
How are you remaining connected to friends and family?
I’m using email and the phone to stay in contact.
What do you do to separate your practice from the rest of the day? Have you set boundaries or is it permeable?
Since my practice takes place in a space outside of my living space there is a natural separation.
What have you been using for inspiration from home (tv shows, movies, cooking, reading)?
My inspirations are – reading, music, films, talking to friends and meditation.
Do you have any recommendations for books movies or other media?
My reading often is outside of the visual arts. Currently reading Motor City Green by Joseph Cialdella which is a history of urban gardens in Detroit. Also reading Mythic Journeys which is a retelling of myths and legends.
Walk us through a piece that you are working on right now (please send a pic as well).
This image is a detail from a grandfather eucalyptus tree. I used a technique called focus stacking. Multiple captures were made of the same image at different points of focus, starting with the nearest and moving, in minute increments, to the furthest. They were then stitched together using a program.
