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Reconstructing the Landscape
The photography of George Byrne
I walked into the Bau-Xi Gallery a few weeks ago, as I have done regularly for nearly six decades. That space has been a favorite of mine since I was a teenager, and new to Vancouver. The art they display aligns with my taste, so I am often delighted to drop in for a visit.
As I passed the reception desk, I heard a loud “Hi Rigo,” and a young woman jumped up, came towards me, and gave me a warm hug. I was more than surprised. It took me but a second to recognize the woman.
Alia and I were coworkers at Petley Jones Gallery for a few years. She ran the reception and sales desk, and I was the photographer, graphic designer, and online sales guru. Alia is easy to like — a warm, genuine aura engulfs her gentle, kind nature. I was delighted to see her again.
She told me that the second-level gallery space had an exhibition of works by Los Angeles-based Australian photographer George Byrne. She offered me a guided tour. She assured me I would not be disappointed.
She was correct.
The Synthetica series by George Byrne began as a medium-format film photography project; through a process of addition, subtraction, collage, and endless reconfiguration, a series of new images emerged.
