“Charles Allan Smith uses color patterns and juxtaposed hues to orchestrate his composition. Smith wanted color to serve as the principle subject of this series. The objects, places, and people in these photographs are almost incidental, as his attention rests in the effect color has on our perception. Color is the most suggestive factor in understanding the world around us. Smith recognizes this concept in this series as he explores color as both an abstraction and as an element producing identifiable forms. When you look at an object not for its form, but for its color and tonal qualities, you improve your understanding of the relationship between the object and its surroundings. Like the effect light and shadow has on black and white photography, the gradations of color impact our perception.”

 

Jason E. Shaiman

Curator -McKissick Museum