Artist Statement

Patty first began working with Polaroid film 15 years ago and now uses it almost exclusively. She takes photographs with the eventual transfer process in mind, conceiving how the new surface will chance the emotional resonance. The result is an image that has a luminance that is changeable depending on the light that strikes it. Although all photographs are original and taken within the last 10 years, the work is also reminiscent of historic photographic techniques.

 

Process - Polaroid Film

In her work, Patty uses the process of Polaroid Emulsion Transfer to place photographic images on 22-carat gold leaf. She first takes slides then later prints on Polaroid film using her enlarger. After the print is fully dried, she places this print in boiling water to loosen up the emulsion. The emulsion can gradually be released from the backing paper and the entire image will peel off. While still wet, she transfers it to the new surface. She has developed a unique technique for preparing and antiquing the gold. For permanence, she uses 22-carat gold leaf on archival paper with a UV protective coating.

Last year, Polaroid stopped making the type of film used for this process. Patty has a limited amount of film left. In her new work, she will be using a digital printer to achieve a similar effect printing of gold and glass. However, the Polaroid prints have a distinct look and will soon become a thing of the past.

 

Care

Images can withstand most light without fading. Since light is what makes these photos interesting, each piece is coated with a UV protective spray that will prevent fading. Like a typical photograph, it is not recommended to be in direct sun. However, short of amounts of direct sun should not damage the image. In addition, images are waterproof and mostly scratch resistant. To remove any dust particles that might accumulate, use a compressed can of air to spray off dust. If necessary, a very soft cloth can be used gently on the photo itself.

 

Bio

Patty earned a BA in Art History from the University of Washington in 1985. In 1986 she co-founded a design business where she worked in the apparel industry for 6 years designing textiles. She earned a MA from the University of Pennsylvania in 1993 and afterwards, began doing photography as a full-time career. During her childhood, she was inspired by her mom who is a sculptor welding with steel and copper, and her dad, an amateur photographer. She shows work in galleries across the country. She currently lives in Berkeley with her husband, 2 kids, and 2 dogs.

 

Editions

4” x 5 “ images are editions of 250.

8” x 10” images are editions of 50.