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Photogram projects by Lloyd Godman - photogram artists

the photogram as a unique print

Any image that can not be copied directly in the way a photograph can from a negative is termed a unique print. While it is argued by some that each photograph has perceptible differences and is a unique image most photograms differ significantly from the traditional photographic process in that they vary markedly and are truly unique.


A unique C Type colour photogram from 

Evidence from the Religion of Technology 

 

 

Most photograms are created by laying objects directly on the paper, exposing the images and then developing the print. Even thought we might use the same objects and attempt to lay them on the paper in the same formation, it is almost impossible to recreate the same image. Indeed, the uniqueness and randomness of the photogram is a reason many people are drawn to the process.

The surrealist movement saw the connection with the subconscious and the randomness of the process as the idea medium to represent its aims.

"Projections ..... of objects that dream and talk in their sleep"
is how Tristan Tzara described Man Ray's photograms
.

Almost always the objects end up in a different place. It is also a reason why many artists who have used the technique explored issues of design and composition.

Artists who make photograms often use this uniqueness as a reason to price the work at a higher rate than a normal photograph.   
 
 
 

However, not all photograms are unique prints; objects can be laid on top of a piece of glass raise slightly off the bench, with each piece of sensitive paper slipped underneath to make an exposure that produces a similar print.

 

Photograms made onto film for instance can be printed repetitively in the normal manner. However the tonal relationships will reverse when exposed and processed via the standard B&W process.

Mouse over to view roll over image

Negative from When Light Turns to Dust where the photographic image had completely disintegrated and been replaced by dirt and dust. I made an edition of 3 prints from each negative.

(Are prints from these negatives photographs or photograms?)

 

A photogram can be made onto a piece of sheet film, which in turn can be placed in the enlarger, where multiple copies are made.

 

120 positive film

Any transparent or opaque object can be placed in the negative carrier of the enlarger, projected down and repetitive prints made. Perhaps objects or liquids could be arranged on a piece of mylar.
 

 

 

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