October 22- November 18
Ryan Flathau: Photography
Notre Dame, IN

Luminescence

My photographic expression explores the mystery lurking beneath the surface of nocturnal objective reality. Time and light, the very fabric of reality, are the overwhelming forces within each image; images that are often dark, both in physical and psychological presence, dancing the fringes of sublime, while inviting viewers to contribute their own reactions and perceptions.

The presence of time and permutation of light within the frame create a realm charged with unanswered mystery and spiritual reverence. Providing the viewer with clues to the makings of an elaborate allegory, one that might suggest relative inconsequentiality of humankind in the cosmos. NatureÕs movement bespeaks time: days, as in the passing stars and drifting clouds; months, as in the cycles of the moon; years, as in urban formations; and eons, as represented by mountains, and the ocean. Within Luminescence humanity psychologically clings to light for its warmth and security. LightÕs permutations: as in streetlampÕs, conversing; vehicle lightÕs, streaking; and the moon, reflecting, herald sanctuary from the inscrutable metaphor of darkness, hint at the proverbial "light at the end of the tunnel", and allude to the perpetual human spirit.

The subject matter within Luminescence ranges from urban and rural, to lake and seaside scenes. Imbued in each work is the evocative power latent within the nocturnal visual territory that calls upon a reverent state. The work is sometimes ambiguous, with an affinity for the mysterious but always invested with the empathetic, helping to invite viewers to contribute their own reactions and perceptions. Unlike much in an avant-garde world, its goal is not that of a sardonic poignancy, but of an externalization and clarification of personal as well as universal questions in such a way which others might find helpful or meaningful in their own life.

R. Davis Flathau

"Learn to reverence night and to put away the vulgar fear of it, for, with the banishment of the night from the experience of man, there vanishes as well a religious emotion, a poetic mood, which gives depth to the adventure of humanity."

Henry Beston, "Night on the Great Beach," The Outermost House (1928)

Ryan Davis Flathau

Originally from Battle Creek Michigan, Mr. Flathau received his BFA in photography and an Art Education Teaching Certification from Western Michigan University. Shortly thereafter, attending graduate school at Savannah College of Art and Design where he received his MFA in photography. Currently he is a Concurrent Assistant Professor and the Photography Facilities Technician at the University of Notre Dame, while also maintaining adjunct teaching positions with Southwestern Michigan College, Ivy Tech State College, and the South Bend Regional Museum of Art.

Ryan has representation with Red Gallery in Savannah, Georgia and Mariposa Gallery in Orange Beach, Alabama.