artscene
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January – June, 2017 digitally construct an artwork. Johan says he photographs most of the animals in his works at zoos and then digitally places them in a selected environment. In this very large-scale photograph, several zebras are shown in a palm grove— which is not their natural environment. Light filtering through the fronds creates a dynamic pattern of cast shadows and zebra stripes.“ This artist is taking advantage of the black and white stripes and the light and shadow to create a complex mysterious puzzle. You can’ t help but ask yourself,‘ How many zebras are there?’” says Chazen director Russell Panczenko.“ That was a very deliberate intention by the artist to bewilder the eye and make you wonder about what you are seeing. It’ s that kind of play with photography that is unique.”
Simen Johan( Norwegian, b. 1973), Untitled # 182, from the series Until the Kingdom Comes, 2016, inkjet print, 54 x 162 in., museum funds purchase, 2016.15