Alexander James Hamilton UK, b. 1967
Transparency of a Dream [0813-28], 2013-2018
Unique chromogenic photograph (studio proof), mounted to polished aluminium, face mounted with museum anti-reflective acrylic (diasec)
Framed with black velvet edges and a snug fit in a slight-edge wood frame
Framed with black velvet edges and a snug fit in a slight-edge wood frame
148 x 148 cm (framed)
58 1/4 x 58 1/4 in
58 1/4 x 58 1/4 in
© Alexander James Hamilton, Distil Ennui
Alexander James Hamilton's practice is driven by a lifelong interest in field observation, scientific discovery with a prominence in exploring the liquid mechanics of water. For this series he bred...
Alexander James Hamilton's practice is driven by a lifelong interest in field observation, scientific discovery with a prominence in exploring the liquid mechanics of water. For this series he bred butterflies in the studio, which were dotted with chrysalises, specifically the South American Morpho genus, which is naturally capable of entering a comatose state. He then photographed them underwater, alive and unharmed, with no need of postproduction. The results are unsettlingly beautiful in their combination of natural and unnatural.
The butterfly has wide significance through different cultures; as a symbol of love, regeneration, fortune, spirituality and death. Of particular interest to the artist is that Greek mythology links the butterfly to the souls of those who have passed away. Thus, this series acts as a reflection on life and mortality; it is fleeting, beautiful and ultimately tragic.
The butterfly has wide significance through different cultures; as a symbol of love, regeneration, fortune, spirituality and death. Of particular interest to the artist is that Greek mythology links the butterfly to the souls of those who have passed away. Thus, this series acts as a reflection on life and mortality; it is fleeting, beautiful and ultimately tragic.
Provenance
Alexander James Hamilton's practice is driven by a lifelong interest in field observation, scientific discovery with a prominence in exploring the liquid mechanics of water. Not limited by the architectural confines of the art world, my practice engages the broader public sphere through interventions within natural landscapes and civic spaces alike, arts education, policy-making, issues of sustainability and ecocide. For this series he bred butterflies in the studio, which were dotted with chrysalises, specifically the South American Morpho genus, which is naturally capable of entering a comatose state. He then photographed them underwater, alive and unharmed, with no need of postproduction. The results are unsettlingly beautiful in their combination of natural and unnatural.