Nothing Is Real

So, that’s it. Two years of part time study completed. Images are up using command strips (along with many, many, many other sticky tabs, just in case!), and I am happy with what has been produced, although there were a few last minute issues with printing. I ordered my final prints from Photobox with plenty of time to spare, but they did not print in the size I needed for the panoramic (36”x12”). I found a company online which appeared to be good, and the panoramic print was ordered. Unfortunately, I received a phone call on the week the work was due to be displayed, that they were unable to print the panoramic due to machine issues. Plan B was to have the image printed at the university Print Bureau, and following a few phone calls and payment, the image was printed on Friday for my to display on the Saturday. Unfortunately, when I arrived on Saturday, the print was much too dark, much darker than the original digital file that I had sent, and after thinking about the situation for over an hour – I decided not to display the black and white panoramic.

 

Fortunately, I had printed an extra image through Photobox with the 4 portraits, just in case. I felt that this was the best image to use in replacement of the panoramic, and it seems to have worked out well. I am very happy with the quality of printing, as the colours on the aluminium seem to give more of a textured feel to the iconic Sgt. Pepper’s brightly coloured uniforms. I have also printed business cards with the website nothing-is-real.co.uk with each portrait featured on different cards.

 

I have also followed advice from tutors and entered the body of work into Format 2019. Format is always strong, and although I feel that my work will fit in with the theme of FOREVER//NOW, there will always be professional artists that enter, and I doubt my work is good enough quality at this stage. I feel the concept is sound and justified, however working in such tight margins and time constraints on the portraits, sometimes just the opportunity to catch one portrait in ten seconds, I don’t think the end result is what is requested and expected at Format. However with more time and access, I’m sure it will not be long before the work I produce is of consistently high enough quality. With skills and understanding I have acquired on the MA, I feel I can now reflect and understand my work honestly and accurately, understanding where my work fits into the industry.

 

I am still in contact with Simon Weitzman, with the aim of having some of my work featured in his documentary Here, There and Everywhere. Weitzman’s documentary has the backing and support of various key organisations, including The British Beatles Fan Club and The Beatles Story Museum. If I can maintain contact and push this opportunity, it may help to continue this area of study.

 

With skills and understanding I have acquired on the MA, I feel I can now reflect and understand my work honestly and accurately, understanding where my work fits into the industry.

 

As I have relocated to London, I am hoping that with time and effort, I will be able to document more tribute bands and expand on the body of work under the title Nothing Is Real. My aim is to have work published and exhibited.