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During my years of study at the Santa Fe Community College, I had the incredible opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of alternative processes in my class, Alternative Process I, with Kathleen Bishop. 

It was during this transformative period that my instructor tasked us with finding an alternative process artist whose style resonated with us, and I eagerly took on the challenge.

The Alternative Process Artist I chose was Amy Friend and her Portfolio Series "Dara Alla Luce", where she would "re-use” light, allowing it to shine through hand-made impressions. 

Quoted from Amy Friend's Website: "In a playful yet literal manner, I return the subjects of the photographs back to the light while simultaneously bringing them forward. Playing with the light and using it metaphorically allows for new readings, sometimes through heavy-handed applications and at other times delicately. The images are permanently altered; they are lost and reborn. Hence the title, Dare alla Luce, an Italian term meaning “to bring to the light” in reference to birth."

Drawing inspiration from teachings at Santa Fe Community College and Amy's evocative series, I embarked on a profound journey of self-expression. I sought to create a unique approach in my distinctive way to this process Amy cultivated. 

In this body of work, I pay homage to the artistry of the past while infusing it with my personal touch and vision for the future. I meticulously blend traditional alternative processes with my artistic sensibilities, breathing new life into this captivating art form. 

With every brushstroke and carefully executed technique, I invite you to accompany me on a visual exploration of creativity, individuality, and self-discovery.

Witness how these photo printing techniques seamlessly harmonize with a contemporary perspective. Each artwork is a testament to the boundless power of artistic expression and a reminder of the infinite possibilities that alternative process art holds.

Thank you for your inspiring content, Amy!

Series Date: 2014-2016

Van Dyke Emulsions • Cyanotype Emulsions

Tea and coffee stained. 

Locations of Images:

Honolulu, Hawaii • Bali, Indonesia • Kutch, India • Tent Rocks, Sandoval County, New Mexico • Santa Fe Community College Darkroom, New Mexico.