Riya Israni
Jerry Uelsmann, "Apocalypse II"
1967, Gelatin Silver Print
Jerry N. Uelsmann produces composite photographs through the use of multiple negatives and hours of darkroom work. Unlike most photographers, he does not use multiple attachments. Instead, he uses a single camera, and several enlargers. Uelsmann approaches his work with the belief that mistakes are simply a part of the creative process. Uelsmann's work also utilizes recurring imagery, as the negatives he uses may appear as a focal point in one piece and as part of the background in another. I chose this particular image because I believe it holds a sense of mystery and surprise, while simultaneously providing a clear example of the intricacies that Uelsmann is able to achieve with his complex process. In addition, the tree-like form provides a sense of danger, while also providing beauty. I also like that there is no clear interpretation or meaning to the image—it is completely up to the viewer.
