Large Format Diagonal Compositions by Montague Fendt

We are so excited to feature Montague Fendt’s large format work today. The experimental series from this incredibly talented Swiss photographer highlights long exposures on large format black and white film. Here’s an excerpt from Montague’s artist statement on the series:

In the exhibited ‘Diagonal Compositions’, he plays with minimalist ideas and the dimension of time within a still image. The monochrome landscapes carefully framed and exposure calculated feel surreal and pictorially soft as they get flooded with sunlight over several hours. Triggered by a period of solitude while rediscovering Switzerland after over a decade abroad, he set out to find selected scenes and landscapes from his memories and giving them a new form. Capturing time through long exposures during daytime results in a very surreal brushstroke feel. In ‘Black Suns’ he plays with solarization of direct positive paper, overloading the emulsion and rendering the sun black in the process, an interesting surreal touch on ordinary landscape photography. To Montague, the process of the creation of the photograph is as important as the results itself. They are carefully planned and during their execution create a time to reflect on the place and beyond the surface of the everyday experience. It is as well an exercise of discipline and concentration in a time where photographs are carelessly taken by the millions, a silent protest to the speed at which images are made nowadays.

Analog camera, film, and developing details:

• The Diagonal Compositions were shot and developed as follows:
  • Chamonix 45n2 Field Camera w. 150mm f5.6 Rodenstock and 58mm f5.6 Schneider Lenses
  • Ilford Delta 100 4×5 Sheet Film
  • Ars-Imago FD Developer, Ars-Imago Fixer, Ars-Imago Wash Bath
  • Multiple hour long exposures during daytime

Have film images you’d like to share? Or tips for shooting film? We’d love to feature them on the blog! View the submission process here.