Tom Oldfield

Michigan Avenue Tom Oldfield

Photograph 20" x 16" $400

My photography is an escape from everyday reality. I am fascinated with the process of how things became what they are and where they are going, whether the subject is a grand landscape or some decaying technology from the past. All of my work is in black and white. To me a black and white image is more elegant and encourages people to participate by bringing their imagination into play. I mostly use traditional large format film and traditional darkroom techniques. Although large format film is my passion I use other processes when that avenue is more appropriate for my image.

Michigan Ave is a cellblock in Alcatraz, the former prison in the middle of San Francisco Bay. It is an eerie place. The eerie feeling is enhanced as the visitors all wear headsets to listen to a narrative history. This results in people walking around silently giving a zombie-like impression. Contact information for this artist can be found on page 77. 42