Exploring Abstraction in Black and White Film Photography
Toby Vandenack began experimenting with non-traditional darkroom techniques in the 1980s which evolved into the Abstract Visions Series. The series explores abstraction within representational and nonrepresentational worlds, often merging both. The series also serves as a coda, celebrating Vandenack’s 50-year journey in black and white film photography–a journey that started when he was sixteen.
Toby Vandenack’s photographs of Paris and New York are recognized around the world through art prints and posters published and sold in over 70 countries. Photographs sold on this site are original gelatin silver prints handcrafted to museum-quality standards by Toby in his studio darkroom.
From Paris to the Great American West – you’ll find select images of recent and past works while exploring the galleries on this site.
Thanks for visiting – enjoy the timeless beauty of Black and White.
Silver Gelatin “Silverprint” Photographic Process
The gelatin silver photographic process dates back to the 1870’s. Most modern (non digital) black and white photographs are gelatin silver prints, which refers to silver halide particles suspended in a gelatin layer on high-quality paper (Fig. 1). This light-sensitive paper is exposed to light passing through a negative (Fig. 2); the latent image is then “developed out.” Development utilizes a three-bath chemistry consisting of developer, stop bath, and fixer (Fig. 3). A fourth chemical step, selenium toning, is applied for enhanced appearance and archival permanence of the final photograph. With proper care, gelatin silver photographs will survive for generations to enjoy and become a sensible addition to any art collection!
Works purchased through this website are original silver gelatin photographs handcrafted by Toby Vandenack in his studio darkroom, signed certificate of authenticity included.
