Photography:
First Place, Most Creative

Julian Olivari
Rochester Institute of Technology

Skingraft

Artist's Statement: Skingraft, is a 30x40 chromogenic print by Julian Olivari — 4th year student enrolled in the Applied Photography program at the Rochester Institute of Technology School of Photographic Arts and Science. Skin is a wrapping, skin is a surface, and skin is a vessel. We see our bodies everyday, but how often do we pay attention to their beautiful hues, delicate pores, or intricate hairs? On the surface of our bodies is a fascinating landscape filled with beautiful subtleties. "Skingraft" explores that terrain, unfolding a world of colors and shapes which transform the human body into a new dimension.

Skingraft is comprised of 361 selections from 19 different images. From afar, the piece creates a beautifully fluid color pattern designed to intrigue its viewer. Upon closer inspection, the viewer can appreciate a variety of textures and shapes from the surface of the human body. The 19 images used for this piece were digitally scanned and manipulated using Photoshop®. Each selection was retouched, color balanced, and designed into the grid. Photoshop allowed for Skingrafts exacting design and exciting color composition. My hope is this piece, like the technology used to create it, is able to expand and inspire the vision and design of the viewer.