Light letters fade for galaxy, 2019
Analogue print of 35mm camera color negative, Fuji Crystal Archival photo paper, 60.3 x 42.3cm, framed, non-reflecting glass, edition of 3 + 1 AP
The letters appear to float, as if detached and abstracted from the photograph. A document of the time.
The term ‘Light Letters’ can be understood as lightweight but also as an invitation to ignite. Do we fade before the Galaxy or does the fire fade in relation to the dimension of the Galaxy? The protest sign stands in a vast barren landscape as if in unknown nothingness, it looks more towards the stars as we view it.
Inequality caused by the rapid growth of large real estate groups is a global development. It is even happening in the Texan desert, where much of the land is privately owned. It can be found here in the form of a protest (sign), albeit quietly within the desolate environment. The letters N and Y are missing from the sign, leaving O Say No P to be read and understood openly and ambiguously. ‘Light Letters’ stands in contrast to the strongly worded ‘NoSay’ of the sign, however it can be read as an incitement to ignite, to set on fire and as a salutation to ‘Fade for Galaxy’. The sign is surrounded by nothingness, looked upon mostly by the stars (the clear sky here impresses, it conveys a feeling of vastness, of the galaxy and time, but not time and presence and not the presence of a being). Does ‘Fade for Galaxy’ refer to us or to the ignited letters that fade before the dimension, or for it? Ones morality comes into play too. ‘SayNo’ is both a refusal and an invitation, leaving the different ways it can be read up to you.
Photo: Simon Vogel