Variations on a Theme
Photographer's Statement
As someone who began music lessons at a young age, I have always felt attached to the instruments I have played. I consider my flute to be an extension of myself, and I have paid about as much attention to its smaller characteristics as I do to my elbow. Several years ago I spent some time photographing pianos (some of those images are displayed here). Afterwards, I kept thinking vaguely about photographing the instrument I actually play, but kept putting it off until I received a little push from the Lexington Symphony. Naturally, this project has expanded to encompass a variety of different instruments, entries on an idiosyncratic, but never-ending, list.
I am attracted to abstract patterns, both in household objects and in nature, particularly those that involve things one sees and uses, but rarely studies, such as musical instruments and kitchen utensils in the home. In nature, some examples I have photographed are: sticks, stones, poison ivy and phragmites. My goal is to transcend the very ordinariness of these objects through abstract images. I work in black and white because, to me, it enhances the abstract nature of the work and provides more space for the imagination of the viewer.
This exhibit is dedicated, with thanks, to everyone who has ever been owned by one of these instruments.
Biographical Information
Alice M. Hughey exhibits regularly in the New York metropolitan area. Recent exhibitions include: Remembrance at Soho Photo Gallery and the Pomona Cultural Center, Gateway to Nature at the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, Pictures at an Exhibition at Haverstraw King's Daughters Public Library, and Sticks and Stones at the Pomona Cultural Center. She will be exhibiting some of the photographs in this show at the Soho Photo Gallery in Tribeca, NYC in November 2006.
Photos copyright © Alice M. Hughey.
