P h o t o g r a p h i c   C o l l a g e​

 

 

 The interplay of multiple images to form engaging new visuals is at the heart of my work.  At first glance the images below are familiar looking natural forms - tree roots, bark, stones, and plants.  They are photographs of the underside root systems of toppled trees that line the banks of the Mississippi River near my home in St. Paul.  A closer look reveals unusual organic shapes and primordial figures - as if they have always existed in the inner life of these trees, and are now released. 

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 The roots and tree trunks have been eroded and washed by flood waters year after year then dried in the summer sun, exposing beautiful textures, colors, and patterns.  Ancient looking spaces in shades of brown, blue, gold, and gray, wait in the underbelly of these wonderful trees. Through a simple process of mirroring a single un-manipulated photograph, otherworldly creatures, forms, and figures are unveiled. 

 

 I continue to explore the banks of the Mississippi to find more trees and roots to photograph for my ongoing series of Mississippi Roots.  

There is always more to discover and share.                   James Byrne

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