Courtney TURNER
Dream state  2017
chromogenic print 70.0 x 50.0cm 

reproductions courtesy of the artist and Kingswood College

TOPshots 2017-18 Finalist
VCE Studio Arts 3&4

Artist statement:

I explored the idea of Human Thought and the adverse range of human emotions that can be depicted through the use of portraiture and digital photography. I focused my central concept to achieve works that form both intellectual and emotive connections with the viewer.

My objective for this particular artwork was to depict a dreamlike aesthetic which sets an appeased mood. The works of Sonja Hesslow and her surrealist works helped to influence my decisions to include lighting and gold leaf onto my subject for this artwork. This helped me produce a work that is more derived from a subconscious form of mind. The warmth these elements brought to the skin formed a work with higher saturation which helped develop a dreamlike aesthetic and together with the closeness of the shot it appears intimate and holds an elated feel.The significance of the effect of this helps enhance the peaceful, happy and dreamy aesthetic which shows calm, and peaceful Human Thought.

All of my works were captured using digital photography. I utilised fairy lights as my source of lighting which was responsible for creating the soft lighting which together with the gold leaf applied to the skin creates a warm aesthetic which helped create a saturated work that appeals to dream like senses.