http://web.mac.com/danbandel

Dan Bandel

Distinctive Visual Communication I started using Polaroid instant products in the mid 1970’s during college and quickly developed an attachment for several films and processes. Over the years I used SX-70, Type 669 and Type 665 P/N films for professional and personal work.

From the very beginning I liked the look of the Type 669 image transfers. The colors were rich and painterly. Unusual textures and artifacts appeared in commonplace subjects. I didn’t set out to confuse anyone’s perception, or to compel acceptance of my work. I simply wanted to generate a response in the viewer. I wanted discussion and I wanted the viewer to step closer to the image and see the familiar in an unfamiliar way.

I think the image transfer process lends it’s self to pushing the boundaries of possibility. I never know exactly how the end result will look, so my preconceptions about a subject are irrelevant. I rarely spend a lengthy time setting up a shot. I prefer spontaneity to prevail. Most often I prefer the emulsion to ‘fracture away’, providing additional visual interest.

Recently, at the request of several clients requiring larger pieces of art, I scanned some image transfer projects and printed them at a much larger size. The 16 x 20 inch print allows the richness and textures to really come through. With no digital enhancement to the end product, the unpredictable truth of the original process is maintained.

I didn’t set out looking for some great interactive process between the film, the subject and myself. But by revealing the “underlying reality” of the image through the transfer process, I continue to discover exciting ways to view the world.