Susan Burnstine

Although unfair and deeply subjective, we feel it necessary to provide our opinion as to the “BEST IN SHOW” at PHOTO LA 2010. Our criteria is simply which image or set of images left the most lasting impression.

While there were many classic prints to choose from at Photo LA and some great new contemporary work, we found one artist exhibited who continues to catch the growing attention of gallerists, curators and collectors: Susan Burnstine.

Her photographs are ethereal in appearance and easily draw the viewer into a new experience. She achieves this “look” in a unique manner.

I wanted to find a way to portray my dream-like visions entirely in-camera, rather than with post-processing manipulations. To achieve this, I created twenty-one hand-made film cameras and lenses that are frequently unpredictable and technically challenging. The cameras are primarily made out of plastic, vintage camera parts and random household objects and the single element lenses are molded out of plastic and rubber. Learning to overcome their extensive limitations has required me to rely on instinct and intuition – the same tools that are key when attempting to interpret dreams.

Two galleries carried her work at the show, Kevin Longino and Susan Spiritus. One dealer we talked with said the prices for Susan’s work had increased during the show.

We understand the attraction … and congratulate Ms. Burnstine on her work.

*** UPDATE *** See January issue of RANGEFINDER for an article on Susan