Some photographs are so distinct that they force you to look at them several times before you finally begin to grasp what’s happening. Cuban-American photographer Abelardo Morell’s work, which will be exhibited at the Clark Art Institute, is an example of that. The photographer, who has been converting rooms into camera obscures since 1991, has found a new way to look at landscape photography in such a way that leaves desiring more. Here’s a look at the upcoming photography exhibition and why you must not miss it.
All images are by Abelardo Morell, courtesy of the artist and Edwynn Houk Gallery. Used with permission.
What is the Exhibition About?
Titled Abelardo Morell: In the Company of Monet and Constable, the photographs on display have been captured to highlight the traditions of nineteenth-century landscape painting. Claude Monet and John Constable are some of the painters who would not create their work in a studio but rather at the location they wanted to paint. “They were firm believers in seeing nature directly, not imagining it,” said Morell. He believes photography follows the same principles, where each of us is in the pursuit of capturing the fleeting, ever-changing qualities of our world. And so, with this project, he reminds us to explore the world and its new realities.
To achieve this, the photographer traveled to Monet’s gardens in Giverny, Rouen, and the Normandy coast. He even visited Giverny and Vétheuil, where Monet lived and painted. He followed a similar process with Constable, visiting varied places in England to showcase its beauty and connection with the painter. Morell states about his work: ” I love the way his paintings have a kind of “ground” quality to them, a roughness; that roughness was interesting to me. A lot of his work is so much about scraggly kind of ground, and then the clouds.”
In this way, the photographer begins a much-needed discourse on photography and painting, both of which have been at odds since the genesis of image-making 200 years ago. The Tent Camera and this exhibition become a way to “marry photographic vision with painterly patina.” Thus, the images become a link between the past and present and how these places continue to inspire millions.
How Are the Images Made?
Morell’s photographs are captured in a distinct way. He photographs the ground and the scenery in front of him to create a dual exposure in a single frame. Majestic, right? If you are wondering how he achieves it, then you will have to thank his innovation, the Tent Camera. This goes back to 1991, when the photographer would capture the interior of the room, along with the details outside through camera obscure. To push his technique further, he created a tent with the help of his assistant, C.J. Heyliger, which is so dark that the only source of light is the camera.
Once the photographer finalizes a place he wants to capture, be it anywhere around the world, he will carry the portable tent with him. Then, he fixes the camera inside it, and thanks to the periscope-type optics, he projects the landscape onto the floor, where the tent is placed. In a few minutes, they capture two distinct realities, the ground—with leaves, blades of grass, dirt, and pebbles—and the projection of what is in front of them. Depending on what is beneath them, the images can appear painterly.
In our digital and AI-driven world, Morell emphasizes the significance of appreciating the everyday beauty around us. Through his inspiring series, he urges us to think differently. Morell suggests that although you can create work that resonates deeply, you first need to step away from the noise and study the artists who came before you. Doing this might provide the spark you need to discover your own voice.
Abelardo Morell: In the Company of Monet and Constable will be on view to February 17 at the Clark Art Institute, Williamstown. For more information, please visit their website.