The Adequate Work is a series created by using alternative processes on instant film. I was inspired to create this body of work by Paracelsus’ theory on the seven stages of transmutation.
The ‘Magnum Opus’, or ‘Great Work’, is the process engaged in by many alchemists throughout history. More popularly known as the creation of the Philosopher’s Stone, and therefore the ability to turn lead into gold.
In current times we are constantly feeling the pressures to be perfect, like flawless gold. However it is the opinion of photographer Eran Voisey that perfection is earned through hard work and failure. Eran believes that, in life, failure is ‘The Great Work’, it is how we learn and transmute ourselves into something more than we were before. Even then he sees that gold is not a perfect substance, but is good enough for us to treasure as precious and desirable.
As a self-professed perfectionist, Eran has been inspired by the writings of 15th century alchemist Paracelsus. Paracelsus’ book, ‘Of the Nature of Things’, outlines seven stages of transmutation to achieve perfection. As is popular knowledge, the Magnum Opus has never succeeded at its primary goal of creating the philosopher’s stone. However, through their work, alchemists still discovered wondrous things including silver halide’s reaction to light (the foundation of film photography).
In response to his research Eran has created ‘The Adequate Work’, a seven piece series, which uses both imagery and alternative process to represent Paracelsus’ seven stages of transmutation. Taking the ‘lead’ of instant film and attempting to transmute it into the ‘gold’ of fine art, Eran aims to portray both the beauty of imperfection and the journey of ‘failing forward’ – failure, reflection, and growth.