The Psychic Lens

The Psychic Lens: Surrealism and the camera
Atlas Gallery – 24 November 2016 – 28th January 2017

Twelve photographs by Man Ray and two by Bill Brandt; well to me that’s an exhibition worth investigating. Both photographers have influenced my work, especially when I was studying for my degree. It is always a pleasure to see original prints up close. Viewing the images at the size they where original printed as adds another dimension that a book often does not portray.

My favourite image from the exhibition was by Andre Kertesz who is another photographer I admire. Kertesz untitled (Distortion 52) is a classic example of using mirrors to change what we see, before the days of Photoshop. The composition is balanced yet playful.

Atlas is a little treasure trove of a gallery that I often like to visit when in London. There is something magical about the often-eclectic images on display.

Woman with long hair, 1929 – Man Ray

Untitled (Distortion # 52) 1932-33 – André Kertész

Portrait composition, 1937 – Florence Henri

Nudes,East Sussex, 1959 – Bill Brandt

1. Woman with long hair, 1929 – Man Ray
2. Untitled (Distortion # 52) 1932-33 – André Kertész
3. Portrait composition, 1937 – Florence Henri
4. Nudes,East Sussex, 1959 – Bill Brandt