Buzz
When viewing the photos of the duo Anna P. Cabrera and Angel Albarrán, two photographers from Spain, it feels like stepping into a dreamscape while keeping our feet firmly on the ground. A simultaneous experience of the tangible and the ethereal.The images captured by this artistic pair possess the power to evoke significant memories. Immersed in the realm of their own memories, the viewer is stirred with emotions from the depths of the subconscious. We are indeed our own past, and the past is a collection of memories. Even if these memories are hidden or inaccurate, the majority of their shots, mainly landscapes, resemble paintings. Albarrán Cabrera employs a variety of materials and processes for their photos: platinum, palladium, cyanotype, and silver gelatin printing. They also use Japanese gampi paper and gold leaf in pigment ink prints. The texture, color, finish, tonality, and even the borders of the prints provide additional layers of information for the viewer.
While being Europeans, the images captured by these two photographers somehow evoke thoughts of Japan. Perhaps because they dedicated a considerable amount of time living in Japan. Japan provides them with an entirely different understanding of reality compared to Western perceptions. The West is obsessed with symmetry and perfection, shaping beauty based on universal laws, perfection, and enduring significance. However, the Japanese aesthetic is entirely distinct. They find beauty in the unusual, imperfect, simple, and somewhat melancholic. They crave the transient, humble, and fragile.
But despite the spiritual potential, it seems challenging for us to accept and comprehend that we are part of this boundless reality. The concepts we develop are meant to help us understand our existence, something incredibly complex every time we delve into thought.Using photography may not help us answer the big questions about time, reality, or space, but we are intrigued by exploring how a photograph can make people ponder about reality. Awareness is not just an integral part of life; it is life as we know it. We aim for viewers to have more empathy and kindle their interest in reality.
Two artists once shared a profound insight about their work: 'Every traditional photographer believes that their snapshots will capture the most accurate depiction of the scene, from light and characters to the backdrop. In contrast, for me, reality is either denied or enriched by the photograph.' - Writer Julio Cortazar 
