SAM TAYLOR-JOHNSON O.B.E. (BRITISH 1967-)
ESCAPE ARTIST (GREEN & RED) - 2010
Light-jet digital c-type on Fuji Crystal archive paper, 3/20 A.P., aside from the edition of 175, signed and editioned verso, published by Counter Editions, Margate
the sheet 65.5cm x 81.5cm (25.75in x 32in)
Footnote: Sam Taylor-Johnson works largely in photography and film, depicting a varied cast including herself and close friends, as well as models and actors. Here, in an image from her ‘Escape Artist’ series, she uses her own body to convey her sense of lightness and freedom after undergoing cancer treatment (she was treated for colon cancer in 1997 and breast cancer in 2000). She says, ‘I made them shortly after I was no longer referring to myself as an ill person.’ The healed body is miraculous, able to be suspended by just two helium balloons affixed to her feet, but the dark background reminds us of the fear and suffering she has been lifted from. This image is a testament to Taylor-Johnson’s ability to convey mixed emotions and an uneasy atmosphere, to raise more questions that she ever answers.