This is as experiment about combining photography with everyday materials.
For the first experiment, I wanted to limit myself so I decided to only use materials that I can find at my place. Since I’m still not sure how exactly I’m going to approach this topic – I wanted to push myself to be as creative as possible with the limited materials. I used old photographs.
I chose to work with thread first. Having tried sewing last year, I have a personal connection to it. I used white thread to mimic the fluffiness in the image. When I made a few stitches on the photograph, I was immediatelly drawn to touch it, which I took as a positive sign. I put the thread on the place on the photography where the “flower” is because that seemed logical. This material was easy to work with. In the next experiments with thread I would like to try sewing on the place that don’t have a connection with the thread so I can focus more on creating a feeling of the entire photography.
The next material I used was staples. I chose a photograph featuring a metal structure for this experiment. Staples proved to be particularly interesting due to the thin paper of the photograph. When touched, the staples move, creating an engaging user experience. Additionally, the sharp edges of the staples on the back of the photo added an intriguing tactile element. The negative side is that my stapler is small so it is not possible to staple in the middle of the photo.
The next idea was to use a needle to create small holes in the photo. I selected an image of a tree by the seaside because it conveys a sense of tranquility and windiness. I used the holes to represent the wind. This technique was somewhat challenging because I wasn’t sure where to place the holes. Since the photograph is very minimalistic, the holes became quite visible, and I’m not sure if this was the best technique to use.
The last technique was using glue. I chose an photography that was taken from a tram so it has reflections in it which is why it made sense to use a transparent material. However, I faced the same issue as with the needle holes—I wasn’t sure where to apply the glue. The shapes created by the glue dominate the picture, and I would prefer something more subtle.
Overall, I think this experiment was a success because I learned that I prefer subtle tactile experience especially when it is surprising and it doesn’t take over the photography – which I think is the main point of my project.
