Artist: Scott Alger
Scott Alger was born in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1972, grew up in Utah, and has been living in New York City since the late 1990’s and currently also spends part of his time in London. He holds a Masters degree in Education from New York University and the International Center of Photography.
EMOTION THROUGH THE SPEED OF LIGHT
Rooted in the aesthetics of Abstract Expressionism while embracing the fantastical principles of Magical Realism, artist Scott Alger’s monumental photographs capture suspended light in a room. Each work, composed of both material subjects and immaterial translucence, presents the viewer with a more whimsical nonsensical version of our reality. Using the speed of light, the everyday subject is infused with overwhelming emotionality.
The spontaneity of the Abstract Expressionists, culminating in the emotional intensity that defined their movement, is epitomized in the work of Scott Alger. Alger’s photographic process, a beautiful performance piece in itself, relies on chance and impulse. Subjects are positioned by Alger and then, action: the lights flash, twist and turn as he dances around the posing figures, lights in hand. This intricate caper may last up to fifteen minutes depending on the intended size of the piece. It is not until the rolls of film are processed that their contents are revealed. Through this method, Alger is able to connect three-dimensional space and its contents, using immaterial light and chance.
