DeeDee DuPlessis experienced 15 days of photographic experimentation in Barcelona this past July, thanks to support from the College of Fine Arts’ Medici Circle.
DuPlessis, a senior pursuing a BFA in studio art with a Photography, Video and Imaging emphasis, was invited to attend the International Experimentation Residency in Barcelona. The 10-day residency consisted of eight artists from around the world working in alternative photographic processes.
“Each of us gave a one-day workshop to the group, so we all got hands-in introductions to all the techniques,” she said.
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Processes included manipulating negatives, in-camera cyanotype, cyanotype on fabric, layering and re-photographing self-portraits, 3D imaging. DuPlessis demonstrated anthotype, a camera-less process in which the photosensitive emulsion is derived from plants and exposed in sunlight for an extended time.
Immediately after the residency, she attended the Experimental Photo Festival, the largest festival for alternative processes, also in Barcelona. DuPlessis attended presentations, exhibitions and openings.
“Both residency and festival were great insights into lesser-known practices with an enormous breadth of processes, styles, and levels from playful to professional. The festival really motivated me to be more experimental in my work and try various techniques, but at the same time drove home the importance of systematic exploration and keeping notes.
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“One new thing I added to my repertoire after the residency is embroidery on found photography. It was great to see that historic processes are still alive and are being updated and developed further, and I was able to connect with likeminded people from different countries.
Medici Circle Appreciation
“The generous gift of Louise R. Glasser allowed me to stay beyond the residency and take part in the Photo Festival as well, which was an artistically enriching experience I hope to repeat next year!”
Previously on Medici Mondays …
- 09.21.26 … Marcus Xavier Chormicle, School of Art
- 09.28.26 … Gavin Michaels, School of Dance
- 10.12.26 … Chelsea Cannon, School of Music