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Photography in constant chemical transformation – that's what awaits in the exhibition "The Silver That Kissed the Silver That Persists" by the young French-Spanish photographer Sara Bensaltana.Submerged in chemical baths and exposed to the steady drip from glass funnels, the artist's analogue photography dissolves and crystallises, unveiling new forms. The imagery is of “spirit houses,” which are shrines believed to host the spirits of the local land or homes. Visitors can even interact with the process, altering the visual qualities of the images with a simple touch.
The exhibition also includes a series of photographs mounted on glass. Active chemicals are embedded within these works, gradually altering the colours and shapes of the prints over the course of the exhibition.
Interactive darkroom experience�
Gallery visitors are furthermore invited into a classic darkroom where they can interact with the photographic development process. They can select spirit house photographs displayed in their mid-development state before being fixed in the stop bath. By exposing these prints to ordinary artificial light, visitors can witness how light exposure transforms the images.
Visitors can also explore vintage Japanese photography of family life and other domestic scenes of the past. These images, sourced by the artist from Tokyo flea markets during her 2024 art residency in the city, bear marks of silver damage, reflecting her attempt to capture the ghosts of past times embedded in these traditional Japanese settings.
Meditative sound installation
The spiritual qualities of the exhibition are further enhanced by a unique sound installation created especially for the exhibition by Danish sound artist Second Sun. The ever-evolving soundscape, like the photographs themselves, undergoes randomised transformation, offering a unique experience with every visit.
About the artist
Sara Bensaltana is a trained art photographer and will in 2025 undertake a residency in Toulouse in partnership with nanotechnology researchers from the French National Centre of Scientific Research (CNRS). From 1 January 2025, she will also become a partner at Dark Gallery CPH.
Safe environment
The chemicals used in the exhibition are harmless to visitors, and there is no need for rubber gloves or respirators. However, children must be supervised, and dogs are not permitted during this exhibition.
Exhibition period:
4-22 December 2024 & 3-10 January 2025
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 13:00-17:00
Saturday, Sunday: 13:00-16:00
Admission to Dark Gallery CPH is always free.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Dark Gallery CPH, Ryesgade 103B, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark, Ryesgade 103B, 2100 København Ø, Danmark,Copenhagen, Copenhagen , Denmark
