Sean Deckert’s photographs intersect art and science, still and motion imagery, natural and manmade environments with a strong interest in how the work operates in the public sphere. Focusing on the urban landscape and human development unfolding in these spaces raises questions about what type of relationship civil society has with the natural world.
His latest series focuses on the aesthetic quality of atmospheric pollution and its relationship to the surface. The show title"Fata Morgana" is directly defined as a mirage, traditionally attributed to sorcery, but in modern times explained scientifically as the distortion of object’s reflections due to atmospheric conditions, mainly heat. The perceived mirage is the result of the combination of multiple reflections into a single illusion.
Sean’s signature technique of creating time lapse composite prints, some with a holographic effect, expose Phoenix as a modern city torn between the beauty of the southwest and the imposed ecological changes to the natural environment. "Fata Morgana" reveals climate change in an ethereal yet perceivable way through the simplicity of Sean’s subject matter—traffic patterns, the color of light, and the occasional dust storm—chosen as a means for him to experiment and gain understanding about solar energy. The artist hopes the intensity of the imagery and the science behind their creation produces an active social conversation about our role in climate change.
Located at 214 E Roosevelt St, in the heart of the arts district in downtown Phoenix, the monOrchid building offers space for events, weddings, photo/video production, art exhibits, and small businesses. The monOrchid is a 14,000 square foot space comprised of two art galleries, office pods, a coffee shop, and two world-class photo cycloramas. The varied connected spaces house multiple creative businesses and offer unique settings for cultural events within the masonry walls and soaring natural wood bow trusses.
Originally a warehouse constructed in 1937 by Del Webb, the building is an excellent example of adaptive-reuse in the city’s core. Through years of renovation and invention, the building has morphed into a place for collaboration, creativity and celebration.
The monOrchid building is open daily. The galleries are open for public events every First and Third Friday from 6-9pm and by appointment with the curator, Justin Germain. For more information about art exhibitions, event rental, or office space leasing please visit http://www.monorchid.com, “like” us on facebook, or contact the curator at art@monorchid.com