A Parallel Planets piece by Unknown
Parallel Planets presents Amanda Charchian
in Freedom and Other Youthful Representations
Story by Nicole Lane
Mentioned: digging into the subconscious, surrealism, Claude Cahun
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You can find her dwelling in enchanting caves, braiding the hair of redheaded beauties, or making crystal sculptures that shine much brighter than a diamond. Amanda Charchian is a fine artist and photographer who is currently residing in Los Angeles. Her work includes sculpture, photography, and 8mm film. All three mediums of choice include feminine themes: her photography is based around the mystery of a woman, her sculptures are energetic and ornate, and her films are brimming with freedom, independence and the joys of being young.
Amanda’s work has a strong sense of secrecy and belonging. As the viewer, you aren’t always aware of what you are seeing but you consciously know that you want to present, wherever it may be. Amanda has the ability to create a surrealist scene in addition to making the image tangible and true for the audience and models. The project, Portable Portals, displays a set of reflectors which cast images of female models in natural environments. The mirrors pose as alternative clothing, an entrance to another dimension or the tool of the subconscious for all women. There are several surrealist artists, such as Man Ray, Claude Cahun and Francesca Woodman, who focus on reflections, shadows and mirrors. All three utilized mirrors as a passage or a theme in their works of art. In artistic history, this tool serves as conversation for appearances, transformation, or the ability to search within. The “self” is an important theme throughout all creative vessels and in Portable Portals, Amanda allows the viewer to have several perspectives into an individuals subconscious, environment and overall essence.
While viewing the works of Amanda, whether it be her photography, films (which feature Ana Kraš eek!) or sculptures, the sense of another realm is present and very concrete no matter how magical and ethereal it may seem. Through her pastel hues -- which are present in Antelope Canyon -- Amanda sets a soft tone for the creative viewer, while her vibrant images in Portable Portals II cast a definite and tangible image for the viewer. Amanda is a little bit of everything that makes up innovation and stimulation -- her work exemplifies the mysticism of a female, raging with the waves or staring into the sea.
More from Amanda Charchian: Website, Tumblr, Facebook
