Curated by Hedwig Heerschop, Mary Neater and Shelly Skye, Photo Alchemy showcases forty artists using 23 different photographic processes, selected by jurors Ted Orland and Tobin Keller. In this dynamic show the artists are sharing rich, Prussian blue cyanotypes, multi-colored gum-bichromate and platinum prints, photograms, tintypes, photopolymer etchings, and many other processes.  

Hedwig Heerschop commented: "The advent of digital technology has altered the printing processes in alternative photography by blending the historical with the current and contemporary ideas. Now alternative printing processes have been given new life. Innovations and explorations are increased because of the ability to produce large negatives and positives using computers. The artist can alter and manipulate past methods of home mixed chemicals, hand-applied materials and natural elements. Each resulting work is unique and cannot be achieved digitally. The end product is a one-of-a-kind print that reflects the artist as photographer, printmaker, and alchemist."

 Ted Orland, one of our jurors commented, "In some of the art displayed here, the "real world" captured so naturally by photography serves as the primary bearer of meaning. In others, alternative processes and emotional flavor pervade the scene, and abstraction proves the most accurate way to express the intangible. And when the stars all align perfectly, the resulting work seamlessly combines many worlds, creating - well, photo alchemy."    

PVAC is proud to present a Symposium sponsored by the Historic Photo Process Forum (HPPF) of the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (MAH), in conjunction with the exhibit.

Artists participating in the Photo Alchemy exhibit will discuss the alternative processes' techniques and methods used in conjunction (in most cases) with the contemporary use of digital media. The judges, Tobin W. Keller and Ted Orland, will give a short talk about the jurying process and their thoughts behind the choosing of works exhibited in the show. HPPF founder Charles Berger will moderate the symposium.

We thank our curatorial team,  jurors, and most fabulous Gallery Committee for all of their hard work in producing Photo Alchemy. This beautifully curated and juried show exemplifies the quality and creativity of our regional artists. A catalog of the exhibit will be available for online purchase by March 5. We thank Hedwig for generously donating her time and graphic abilities in order to bring this catalog to print.