Castiglione. C. ‘Nonno’ (2023) Lino prints, Framed. 9.5cm x 14cm prints, 17cm x 22.5cm frames
Close up of frame (Left)
Close up of frame (Right)
Reference image (Left)
Castiglione. C (2023) Reference image (Right)
Castiglione. C (2023) Collage of archival images. 29.7 x 42 cm
Castiglione. C (2023) Edited collage of found images. 29.7 x 42 cm
Castiglione. C (2023) Lino prints overlaying collage. 29.7 x 42 cm
'Nonno' is an exploration of the beauty of ageing, through the visual narrative of the lino prints, it encapsulates the aspects of identity that remain through time even while the whole world changes.
I chose to present these lino prints within frames, evoking the familiar atmosphere of family homes. This decision contributes to a sense of familial connection, infusing a personal touch into the images, which is what I aimed to convey. I wanted to communicate the continuity of identity across time. Through careful attention to facial features and the consistent posture depicted in both images, I want viewers to recognise that the subject is the same person. The similarity in posture signifies that, even with time, certain aspects still stay the same.
I chose to present these lino prints within frames, evoking the familiar atmosphere of family homes. This decision contributes to a sense of familial connection, infusing a personal touch into the images, which is what I aimed to convey. I wanted to communicate the continuity of identity across time. Through careful attention to facial features and the consistent posture depicted in both images, I want viewers to recognise that the subject is the same person. The similarity in posture signifies that, even with time, certain aspects still stay the same.
The placement of the older photograph is deliberately positioned on the left. In this image, he gazes slightly to the right, as if in awe of his future self. Dressed in a suit and tie, he portrays a professional demeanour, with a working mindset. In contrast, the present-day image captures my Nonno smiling, with a visible sense of fulfilment on his face that radiates the palpable feeling of accomplishment.
A key decisive moment for me was the size and presentation of these prints. I came to realise that the small and delicate format had a bigger impact due to the intimate nature of the images and the requirement to go closer for a detailed viewing. There was also the question of presenting the prints collectively instead of in separate frames. I opted to separate the two, accentuating the contrasts and how the subjects have essentially evolved into two different people over the course of their life. This allows viewers to appreciate the transformation within each frame.
Additionally, I experimented with physical collage techniques, using my Nonno's photos and layering prints over them. I adjusted the exposure and brightness aiming to evoke a dreamlike atmosphere, reflecting the distant past as if it were a dream.