Cut and Paste

Ikonography Group Show
Until 12th August 2006

Reviewed by Mark Langshaw

Any avid photography lovers in Liverpool should have acquainted themselves with Iconography by now, but for those yet to have the pleasure, it is a brand new studio and gallery based in Mathew Street. Its latest exhibition - Cut and Paste - demonstrates how the onset of digital technology has dramatically changed the way some photographers and artists work within the discipline.

With huge prints of Jon D. Nash’s work adorning much of the wall space, the space has never looked so good. A rich variety of subject matter features in his photographs, from Anthony Gormley’s statues on Crosby beach to resplendent cityscapes. Through the manipulation of light and exposure, Nash presents us with a unique and dazzling interpretation of the city we live in. Several of the images are ambiguous masses of intertwining hues, whilst others are presented in stark detail.

It is clear that Nash has a fondness for conveying movement in his photographs. Harnessing the power of artificial light, he manages to produce rich tapestries from something as banal as a drive around the block. Utilising reflections is another of his strong points. Everything from wing mirrors to pond surfaces is put to aesthetic use.

The artist’s proficiency extends far beyond shot composition. His outlandish hand drawn cityscapes prove he is equally skilful when it comes to traditional forms of art. These pieces were later manipulated in Photoshop to present the viewer with a number of different interpretations of the image.

Cut and Paste is almost a career retrospective for Nash. A substantial volume of his early work - previously exhibited in Derby and Manchester - is also on display. An array of smaller photographs is prominently placed in the centre of the room and a number of well compiled books featuring samples of his work is also shown.

The exhibition also features digital photography by Robert Carter, Terry Sayers, Barry Cheung and Rob McGrory.