I was immediately attracted to the vibrant colors used and the geometric composition that make up Liz Nielson’s abstract photograph, Fortune Teller. While the image is by no means symmetrical or recognizably patterned, there is a feeling of balance and centering that jumps out at me. The brightness of the background creates a sense of floating and movement, as if the shapes are linked together and moving diagonally out beyond the frame of the image. Looking closer, it is clear that the triangles do not touch the central sphere, despite coming very close and giving the appearance as if they do. The small space that encircles the sphere and separates the object from connecting with its surrounding creates a slight feeling of tension that challenges the composition’s overall of ease and softness.
Liz Nielson is a well known photographer who explores the practice of a cameraless image or photogram, layering exposures and varying filtrations of light to create her distinct luminous abstractions. By using negative chromogenic paper, the colors of the gels are reversed and the final product often comes as a surprise. Nielson is interested in theories of quantum physics and alternative worlds and works to create images that make such ideas tangible.
— Anna Murray ’23