Relative Refraction forms part of the Gendered Archive project that focusses on female tranference. Women are typically custodians of the past and transfer the domestic archive down through the generations. The archive comprises of photographs, letters and family stories and it is these elements that engage me.
The circular plaques include female family portraits combined with one-line memories of a favourite saying or event. Rastering (laser-etching) combined with a strong light source creates the ethereal effect of refraction and this allows a visual 'bringing back to life' of departed loved ones.
The interactive installation also allowed the spectator to engage with the work and create their own personal experience of the effects of light.
'Fingers were made before forks...'
