Coloring Perception: Spencer Finch and the Art of Seeing

Abstract

Emanating from a large, gaseous star forming the center of the universe - commonly referred to as the sun - light colors the world. Light is a mystifying, transient element, a source of energy and life that has transfixed mankind for centuries. Also seduced by the wonders of light (and color) is contemporary artist, Spencer Finch. He has embarked on a quixotic mission of trying to measure, capture, and replicate the temporal qualities of light and color. His interest lies in capturing the fleetingness of the moments he experiences. To some extent Finch is successful in his impossible quest. Even in failure, his artworks become a vehicle for exploring the intricacies of human vision and perception. Mixing scientific inquiry and art, Finch utilizes remnants of the past - iconic sites and figures, famous literary texts, etc. - to reflect on personal memories and experiences. His artwork is a means of working out his own questions and ideas about vision and perception. By grounding his work in the known, Finch allows the viewer to enter and understand his works. Viewers are offered a unique chance to consider the ways in which the world is seen and understood. In the end, Finch hopes he is able to offer an almost out-of-body, or maybe just deeply insightful, experience in which vision is called into question, allowing an insight into understanding what it means to perceive.