Photomontage: Rules At Play

Assignment #2

Rules At Play

McKenzie Olmstead

This physically seamless print is a striking photomontage that blends two street signs into one cohesive image (a photomontage) The first sign, a bold “stop” sign, was developed in just 2.5 seconds using a filter of 3.5. In contrast, the second sign, which reads “smoking past this point,” was exposed for a slightly longer duration of 4.5 seconds, also with a filter set at 3.5. Altogether, the print was exposed to light for a total of 7 seconds, resulting in a captivating visual effect.

While playing with ideas, I envisioned this print as more than just an artwork; I wanted it to convey a message that related to an advertisement, perhaps something you might encounter on a billboard or a cigarette cart. As I progressed through the printing process, I settled on an abstract approach, limiting the exposure time to create a grainy texture that adds depth. Additionally, I found it compelling to incorporate elements of nature within the print, highlighting the interplay between humans and the natural world: a reminder of how often we take our environment for granted.

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In The Process….