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Pictures with a Process

Pictures with a Process

By: Sarah, Education Intern

After talking about walking with Matthew Jensen, I decided to attempt taking photographs with a similar artistic process.

Jensen talked about how his process is based off of his love of walking. In addition to that there is a certain political component to the simple act of walking. The walking and exploring that his process depends on evokes a kind of reevaluation of walking for the sake of walking, with no particular destination in mind.

When talking to Jensen, he mentioned the strange relationship between driver and walker when he walked on what he described as harsh suburban roads. When there is no sidewalk, trail, or designated walking space, the seemingly simple and intuitive action becomes very political. This idea of simplicity and presenting it in a different way to show something metaphorical, or maybe political, became a part of my process when taking the photographs. In my walking, I also made sure to find little things that I might have missed, but that were in plain sight.

Exploring the landscape is essential to Matthew Jensen’s process, so re-exploring where I had walked before was essential to mine. Attempting Matthew Jensen’s process in taking photographs and in walking made me appreciate his process more and also resulted in a couple of not too shabby photographs. Matthew Jensen’s photographs as well as the walks he designed for visitors will be shown at the Brandywine River Museum of Art in his work Alongside Tall Grasses from August 23rd through November 16th.

Are you interested in learning more about Jensen’s process? Inspired by the beauty of the Brandywine? Join us for the “Discover Brandywine Walk” led by Matthew Jensen on October 11, from 1 – 3 pm!

Discover Brandywine walk

October 11, 1 to 3 p.m.

Challenge your observational skills while discovering new ways of engaging with the environment. Join artist Matthew Jensen on a walking exploration of the local landscape that inspired his installation. The walk will include the option of recording findings through sketching or photography. Rain or shine. Participants should be prepared to walk a mile or more over uneven terrain. Program is appropriate for adults or teens. Group size is limited. Cost is $12 for members and students and $15 for adults. Register online or by calling 610.388.8326.