Rayographs on the Thames

Cameraless documentation of my intrusion on the river Thames.

Without clear knowledge of mudlarking or any prior experience I picked some objects from the muds of teh Thames while the tide was low. While on there, I placed them on the photosensitive paper and let the daylight to create the images below.

The rendering is surreal and ambiguous; the daylight rendered on the photographic emulsion the shape of the items selected.

In a ritualic manner, making these images, I pick up object that interest me visually, and place them on paper to document their shape and form. Time has a impact over the final result as the exposure time takes 30-60 min.

The rayographs made on the river Thames contain a certain foresing quality, somehow engaging photography in a scientific use

I played with them a little more and inverted them. I think the below sequence works best.

I am planning to try new approaches to making this work, as I need some context around these shapes. Joining a mudlarking group will help build some understanding.

The Museum of London Docklands displays a collection of items found on the. I will contact them and ask permission to photograph the items on display.