The Other Side of Anonymity
While exploring South Congress Avenue the other day I discovered Yard Dog gallery. This eclectic space is filled with fun and funky artwork (including some encaustic paintings). However, I was most captivated by their current exhibition of Mike Miller’s work.
Miller uses his job as an antique dealer to procure vintage photographs, which he then painstakingly cuts apart and glues into these fabulous collages. I could spend hours staring at the silhouettes, trying to imagine the person on the other side. The curious postures and outfits worn by the subjects create such a nostalgic atmosphere. In some cases, I know I recognized top hats – so surely the images are quite old. I’m simultaneously saddened that these historical records are being destroyed but thrilled with the metamorphoses of the photographs. I feel that this is an ingenious way for these anonymous people to live on in the imagination of the viewer. And what with the current cultural obsession with the silhouette (iPod ads, anyone?) this couldn’t be a more appropriate imagery for our generation to appreciate. The reason I’m most drawn to Mike Miller’s work? -The potential interpretation of his concept of “identity”, which is a theme I explore in my own art.
Click the image to see more of his work:
© 2008 Mike Miller
