Nick Simpson presents photographs as though they had been recently discovered in the attic of a long deceased relative; charged with romantic mystery within the context of historical photography they often draw influence from art’s great masters and movements, in particular the Italian Renaissance, Dada and early Surrealism.

There is evidence planted within each image that invites further enquiry and the viewer is encouraged to examine this carefully selected moment. In direct contradiction of the demands placed on photography today to be easily accessible and to provide instant gratification, Simpson uses equipment and techniques that date back to its earliest days.

The pictures are constructed from scratch and everything is real. The original photograph is made in a single sitting on one photographic plate, and after processing Simpson then scratches, distresses and paints the negative to build a patina that helps to convey a false sense of historical provenance, contrasting with the often incongruous subject matter.

16th Sept – 5th Dec 2014. By appointment, Monday – Friday 8am – 5.30pm

Please email celia@thecynthiacorbettgallery.com to attend the Private View on 17th September 2014, 6.30pm – 9pm