Subjective response to place through convergent strategies in digital imaging and print processes

and Print processes. The project develops visual forms for expressing poetic response to a familiar urban environment. The method evolved uses the convergent potential of digital imaging processes, enabling the development of composite 'metaphoric' imagery, to convey a sense of place. The exposure to habitat provides fleeting and highly subjective insights. Lenscaptured imagery associated with photography and video provides a means to register these incidental truths without breaking the union between mind and place. An additional attraction in using a photographic means of recording source material is the fidelity it brings to the process. Digital imaging technology has now been in use by artists for a sufficient period for the novelty to subside and to permit a mature appraisal of its potential. The considerable flexibility afforded facilitates the accommodation of a diverse range of content and media. The capacity for convergence opens the door to the possibility of bringing together the emotive and expressive warmth of painting and the documentary coolness of photography. The advantage of encompassing 'warm' and 'cool' approaches is the space it allows for both the subject and the subjective to interact. As these ideas evolved during the studio investigation, it became apparent that it was the immediacy afforded by the free application of oil paint, which permits the artist to give spontaneous expression to their subjective vision. Although there were to be time lags between the various steps in the methodology for this project, spontaneity within each step was given a high priority. These aims have been pursued through digital imaging processes with photography and painting, culminating in digital prints. Methodologies, exploring the convergent potential of digital technology for representing subjective response to intimacies uncovered in nature, were developed using both still and video cameras, commercial image manipulation software, a range of media and three generations of digital printers. Hobart and its environment was the chosen site for engagement because this incorporates urban, parkland, hill country and waterfrontage. Also, it was familiar territory and conveniently accessible. The methodology requires many repeat visits to selected sites. The main parameters for the project include the above environment and the still, two-dimensional image. The context, working processes and image developments are discussed in the body of the exegesis.