Photographic studies between the body, red chalk and handwriting
Studia Rubra is the first—and probably the only—series within Artis Umbrae in which colour is deliberately admitted. The red does not, however, represent a return to colour photography. It appears as material and trace: as red chalk, line, handwriting and a direct physical intervention in the image.
The series is inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s study sheets, by his observation of the human body and by the warm, earthy tone of red chalk. It is not intended as an imitation of Leonardo. Instead, photography, drawing, handwriting, paper and empty space are combined to form an independent pictorial object. The photograph is no longer the completed result, but becomes part of a physical sheet that visibly bears the traces of its creation.
Unlike my previous series, Studia Rubra begins deliberately with a single work. From the outset, it is conceived as an open and continuously growing book of studies. I intend to create at least one new sheet each month. Neither the final number of works nor the conclusion of the series has been determined in advance.
A handmade original exists for each work. In addition, every motif is issued as a limited photographic edition of ten numbered prints. Two Artist’s Proofs are reserved primarily for exhibitions. The original remains in my private collection, although it is, in principle, also available for acquisition.
