Gloria Kegeles calls her latest exhibit “Further Reflections,” and with good reason.
The Wendell artist photographs reflections, sometimes of herself, in bright objects, such as the grillwork of cars. Her photographs in the exhibit were taken at vintage vehicle shows, where, she says, “very reflective shiny metal surfaces are everywhere.”
Kegeles says she found the perfect spot for her artmaking, right in her own backyard: Last August, the Northeast Chevy/GMC antique truck show was hosted in the Wendell State Forest.
Hampshire Life: What is your creative process like?
Gloria Kegeles: I look for the cars at shows from the “chrome era” or semi trucks displaying huge expanses of chrome on the cabs. Moving just a fraction of an inch from side to side, or up and down, can greatly change the image. As I am often reflected in my images, I wear pink, red and/or purple so that color is added to otherwise cool or drab colors.
H.L.: Why motor vehicles?
G.K.: I’ve found the vehicles to be excellent canvases for my images, not only for the reflective but also the distorting properties of the curved surfaces. Adding to the display are screws and bolts, handles and hood ornaments, convex hub caps, diamond plate, grilles and antique light fixtures.
H.L.: What will viewers see?
G.K.: Over the few decades that I’ve been photographing vehicles, my work has gradually become more abstract, so viewers may not be aware of its origins. The images are framed “in camera” and consist solely of existing light. I do not use computer generation or Photoshop alterations.
H.L.: When you’re photographing, how do you know you’re on the right track?
G.K.: When I’m not getting any unusual/new images, I move on to the next vehicle. The parking spot for the vehicle sometimes makes a huge difference, where the reflection of trees or other vehicles nearby make the image.
H.L.: What do you aim to achieve with your photos?
G.K.: My goal with photography from the very beginning has been to create images no one has seen before. I did not need to emulate Ansel Adams, nor could I dream of making images more beautiful than nature itself. I like to think my work throughout my photographic journey has been unique.
— Kathleen Mellen
“Further Reflection,” a solo photography show by Gloria Kegeles, is on view through April 2 at Gallery A3, 28 Amity St. in Amherst. Gallery hours are Thursdays through Sundays from 1 to 7 p.m.