Weighing the Planets
Olivia Parker
The Friends of Photography (Untitled 44), 1987, 56 pages
ISBN 0-933286-49-X
In Olivia Parker's meticulously constructed still life images, which combine found objects, pages from old books and magazines, and shadow images, the artist is providing fuel for the imagination. Parker states this explicitly in her Introduction: "I invite those who see my pictures to participate with their own thoughts."
These complex and intriguing images can certainly be interpreted in a seemingly endless number of ways. The images have no captions, but each one does have a title… which typically raises more questions than it answers.
Parker created these black & white images using large format cameras, and contact printed the negatives. She works in a distinct style, yet she is able to create a diverse array of images within that style.
Appreciating these images may require some effort on the part of the viewer. If you are not deterred by that prospect, then this book is recommended.