Photo-Transformation
In his experimental self-portraits, Lucas Samaras manipulated a familiar photographic process to uncanny effect. Taking advantage of the wet emulsion of instant Polaroid prints, he used his hand or a stylus to manipulate the dye while the picture developed, deforming his own physical features in the process. Identity in his work is malleable.
Artwork Details
- Title: Photo-Transformation
- Artist: Lucas Samaras (American (born Greece), Kastoria 1936–2024 New York)
- Date: July 23, 1976
- Medium: Instant internal dye diffusion transfer print (Polaroid SX-70)
- Dimensions: 7.9 x 7.8 cm (3 1/8 x 3 1/16 in.)
- Classification: Photographs
- Credit Line: Gift of Arnold and Milly Glimcher, 1986
- Object Number: 1986.1244.4
- Rights and Reproduction: © Lucas Samaras
- Curatorial Department: Photographs
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