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Andrew Wright

Disused Portrait Camera Considers Wedgwood Vase

Silvered objects and custom plinth
60 x 13 x 24 in.
Edition of 1
2015

"Because silver-plating masks some of the features of the two objects placed on the plinth, it takes a moment, against the glaring light and reflection, to identify what is beneath the gleam. The twin lenses of a camera focused directly on the distinctive shape of a Wedgwood vase provide clues that these objects allude to photography’s own history (...) a Polaroid mini-portrait Studio Express. Analog cameras, like this mid-twentieth century example, are now largely considered obsolete; they exploit the light-sensitive properties of silver compounds to translate appearance into representation. But here in Wright’s installation, the silvery effects of plating seem to externalize analog photography’s distinctive alchemy. At the same time, encasing these photographic objects in a veneer of precious metal becomes a commemorative act, like bronzing a baby’s first shoes (...) this installation forms a “mirror with a memory”.[ii]"

The sculpture consists of a wooden plinth containing LED strip lighting, a silver-braided electrical cord (currently wired for 110-120VAC and can be modified to suit), a 5-sided mirror box, and two 'silvered' objects.

The work requires no additional lighting and is best viewed in subdued lighting conditions. Should not be viewed in direct sunlight.

Exhibition History: 
McMaster Museum of Art, Midnight Sun Camera Obscura Project, 2018.
University of Lethbridge Art Gallery, Camera Obscura Midnight Sun Project, 2016.
Ottawa Art Gallery, Andrew Wright: Pretty Lofty and Heavy All At Once, 2015.
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Frequently asked questions

We represent emerging, mid-career, and established artists with a focus on contemporary art.

We handle custom framing on behalf of our collectors. We work with trusted framers based in Ottawa. Framing takes 2 to 3 weeks. Quotes are provided before fabrication.

We offer a complimentary service to deliver, hang, and install artwork for collectors in Ottawa.

For all other major Canadian cities we have a list of recommended art handlers.

We provide both domestic and international shipping. Quotes are prepared on a case by case basis depending on the size, weight, and medium of the artwork as well as its destination.

We are located in the heart of the Glebe neighbourhood at the intersection of Bank Street and Fifth Avenue. Metered street parking is available infront of the gallery and 1-hour parking on the residential streets surrounding the gallery.

de Montigny Contemporary Inc. is located in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, the unceded and unsurrendered Territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin Nation whose presence here reaches back to time immemorial.

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