LAND VIEWS by TOM RICHARD

LAND VIEWS is about finding the ghost

Finding the right images has involved frequent travel to old and new locations, particularly the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The working process is to be in the natural setting, looking for what is interesting and engaging. Looking for the ghost that is hidden behind the scenes. The ghost is the ground moving beneath our feet. It is the sun’s energy stored in the trunk of a giant tree. The ghost is the rising of mountains, the wind and the flowing of streams.

These photographs capture what catches attention in some way. The camera sees better than us, it sees what we can not. It reveals things we did not see - details that often we discover and enjoy later.

The Beauty of Ghost Art: the Mysterious World of Creativity

Discover the world of ghost art, where creativity intertwines with mystery to create art that captivate the imagination. In this article, we will delve into the beauty of ghost art and explore the allure it holds for both artists and art enthusiasts. Ghost art is a unique artistic expression that creates a sense of depth and intrigue. Artists are able to evoke emotion and create a visual narrative that goes beyond the surface. They invite viewers to uncover hidden meanings and stories embedded within the artwork.

The beauty of ghost art lies not only in its aesthetic appeal but also in its ability to provoke thought and spark curiosity. This form of art challenges traditional notions of what is visible and tangible, allowing us to explore the realms of creativity and imagination.

Join us in the mysterious world of ghost art and the magic of artistic expression. Discover how these creations leave a lasting impression on all who encounter them.

Understanding the concept of ghost art

Ghost art is a captivating and enigmatic form of artistic expression that defies conventional notions of visibility and tangibility. At its core, ghost art embraces the idea of the unseen, the hidden, and the elusive. Artists who work in this medium create works that seem to exist in a realm between the physical and the ethereal, inviting viewers to engage with the artwork in a profoundly introspective and imaginative way.

The concept of ghost art is rooted in the belief that true artistic expression can transcend the boundaries of the material world, tapping into the deeper realms of the human psyche and the collective unconscious. Ghost artists often employ techniques and materials that blur the line between the visible and the invisible, using translucent layers, ethereal brushstrokes, and subtle hues to evoke a sense of mystery and wonder. The resulting artworks are imbued with a haunting beauty that captivates the viewer, challenging them to look beyond the surface and uncover the hidden meanings and narratives that lie within.

The allure of ghost art lies in its ability to engage the viewer on a profoundly emotional and intellectual level. By creating works that seem to exist in a liminal space between the tangible and the intangible, ghost artists encourage viewers to explore the depths of their own imagination and perception. This form of art invites the audience to become active participants in the creative process, as they are called upon to interpret the artwork and uncover its underlying significance. Through this dynamic interplay between the artist and the viewer, ghost art becomes a catalyst for self-reflection, contemplation, and a deeper understanding of the human experience.

The history and evolution of ghost art

The origins of ghost art can be traced back to various cultural and artistic traditions throughout history, each with its own unique approach to the concept of the unseen and the otherworldly. From the ethereal landscapes of Chinese ink painting to the spectral figures of medieval European art, the idea of harnessing the power of the invisible has long captivated the human imagination.

One of the earliest known examples of ghost art can be found in the ancient cave paintings of Lascaux, France, where prehistoric artists used subtle shading and negative space to create the illusion of ghostly figures and animals. This primal exploration of the unseen would later inspire the work of many modern and contemporary ghost artists, who seek to tap into the same sense of mystery and wonder that has captivated humanity for millennia.

As art and culture evolved, the concept of ghost art continued to manifest in diverse forms and mediums. In the Middle Ages, European artists such as Hieronymus Bosch and Albrecht Dürer incorporated ghostly and supernatural elements into their work, creating unsettling and thought-provoking images that challenged the prevailing religious and social norms of the time. During the Romantic era, artists like John Constable and J.M. W. Turner explored the interplay between the visible and the invisible, using atmospheric effects and ethereal light to evoke a sense of the sublime and the transcendent. In the 20th century, the rise of abstract and conceptual art paved the way for a new generation of ghost artists, who embraced the idea of the unseen as a means of exploring the boundaries of perception and representation. Artists like Mark Rothko, Agnes Martin, and James Turrell employed techniques such as minimalism, color field painting, and light-based installations to create works that seemed to exist in a realm beyond the physical, inviting viewers to engage with the artwork on a deeply contemplative and spiritual level. Famous ghost artists throughout history Throughout the centuries, a diverse array of artists have made significant contributions to the evolution of ghost art, each with their own unique approach and style. Among the most renowned ghost artists are: Yayoi Kusama, the Japanese artist known for her immersive, hallucinatory installations that blur the boundaries between the tangible and the intangible. Kusama's iconic "Infinity Rooms" and polka-dot-covered environments create a sense of disorientation and transcendence, inviting viewers to lose themselves in the artist's captivating vision. Anish Kapoor, the British-Indian sculptor whose large-scale, reflective works explore the interplay between the visible and the invisible. Kapoor's works, such as the famous "Cloud Gate" sculpture in Chicago, play with light and perspective to create a sense of the otherworldly, challenging the viewer's perception of reality. Olafur Eliasson, the Danish-Icelandic artist whose light-based installations and environmental works evoke a profound sense of the natural world's hidden mysteries. Eliasson's works, such as the "Weather Project" at the Tate Modern, use simple elements like light, fog, and water to create immersive, ethereal experiences that transport the viewer to a realm beyond the physical. James Turrell, the American artist renowned for his light-based installations that explore the nature of perception and consciousness. Turrell's works, such as the "Skyspace" series, use carefully curated light and space to create a heightened awareness of the viewer's own perceptual experience, blurring the boundaries between the seen and the unseen.

Techniques and methods used in ghost art

Ghost artists employ a wide range of techniques and methods to create their captivating works, each with its own unique approach to evoking a sense of the unseen and the ethereal. Some of the most common techniques used in ghost art include: Translucency and transparency: Ghost artists often use materials such as glass, acrylic, and vellum to create layers of translucent and transparent surfaces that allow light to pass through, creating a sense of depth and ethereality. This technique can be seen in the work of artists like Anish Kapoor and James Turrell, who use reflective and refractive materials to play with the viewer's perception of reality. Minimalism and the use of negative space: Many ghost artists embrace the power of negative space, using sparse, minimalist compositions to create a sense of the unseen and the unknown. By leaving large areas of the canvas or installation empty, these artists invite the viewer to fill in the gaps with their own imagination and interpretation.

This approach can be seen in the work of artists like Agnes Martin and Mark Rothko, whose abstract paintings evoke a sense of the transcendent and the sublime. Light-based installations: Ghost art often involves the use of light as a medium, with artists employing techniques such as projection, reflection, and refraction to create ethereal, immersive experiences. These light-based installations, such as the works of Olafur Eliasson and James Turrell, can transport the viewer to a realm beyond the physical, blurring the boundaries between the seen and the unseen. Conceptual and performative approaches: Some ghost artists take a more conceptual or performative approach, using the idea of the unseen as a springboard for exploring themes of consciousness, perception, and the human experience. These artists may incorporate elements of installation, video, or even participatory experiences to engage the viewer on a deeper level, inviting them to become active participants in the creative process. The symbolism and meaning behind ghost art The beauty and allure of ghost art lies not only in its aesthetic qualities but also in the rich symbolic and conceptual meanings that it conveys.

Ghost artists often use their work to explore the nature of human perception, consciousness, and the mysteries of the universe, inviting viewers to engage with these profound themes on a deeply personal level. One of the core themes that permeates much of ghost art is the idea of the unseen and the unknown. By creating works that seem to exist in a liminal space between the tangible and the intangible, ghost artists encourage viewers to confront the limitations of their own senses and to consider the vast realms of the unseen that lie beyond the physical world. This exploration of the unseen can be seen as a metaphor for the human experience, reminding us of the vast mysteries and unknowns that exist within the depths of our own consciousness and the universe at large. Another significant theme in ghost art is the idea of transcendence and the sublime. Many ghost artists use their work to evoke a sense of the numinous, the awe-inspiring, and the deeply spiritual. Through the use of light, space, and minimalist compositions, these artists create works that seem to transcend the boundaries of the physical world, inviting viewers to experience a heightened state of awareness and contemplation.

This pursuit of the sublime can be seen as a reflection of the human desire to connect with something greater than ourselves, to find meaning and purpose in the face of the unknown. Finally, ghost art often explores the nature of perception and the ways in which our senses shape our understanding of reality. By creating works that challenge conventional notions of visibility and tangibility, ghost artists encourage viewers to question the reliability of their own perceptions and to consider the ways in which the unseen can shape our experience of the world. This exploration of the subjective nature of perception can be seen as a metaphor for the human condition, reminding us of the inherent limitations and biases that shape our understanding of the world around us.

The impact of ghost art on the art world

The rise of ghost art has had a profound impact on the broader art world, challenging traditional notions of what art can be and how it can be experienced. As this enigmatic form of artistic expression has gained increasing recognition and acclaim, it has also sparked a renewed interest in the power of the unseen and the intangible in the realm of visual art. One of the most significant impacts of ghost art has been its ability to push the boundaries of what is considered art. By embracing the concept of the unseen and the ethereal, ghost artists have challenged the traditional focus on the material and the tangible that has long dominated the art world. This shift has opened up new avenues for artistic expression, encouraging artists to explore the realms of the invisible and to create works that engage the viewer on a deeper, more contemplative level. The rise of ghost art has also had a profound impact on the way that art is curated and presented. As these works often defy conventional notions of visibility and tangibility, they require a more thoughtful and immersive approach to exhibition and display. This has led to the development of new curatorial strategies and exhibition spaces that are designed to showcase the unique qualities of ghost art, creating environments that encourage viewers to engage with the work on a more profound and meaningful level. Furthermore, the impact of ghost art has extended beyond the walls of the traditional art world, influencing a wide range of creative disciplines and industries. From the world of architecture and design to the realms of film, music, and fashion, the themes and techniques of ghost art have been embraced and reimagined, inspiring new forms of creative expression and challenging the boundaries of what is possible. This cross-pollination of ideas and influences has helped to cement the enduring legacy of ghost art, ensuring that its impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.

Collecting and appreciating ghost art

Collecting and appreciating ghost art can be a deeply rewarding and transformative experience for art enthusiasts and collectors alike. Unlike more traditional forms of art, ghost art often requires a unique approach to collection and display, one that embraces the ethereal and the intangible. For collectors, the acquisition of ghost art can be a journey of discovery and exploration. These works often defy conventional notions of value and scarcity, with many pieces being site-specific installations or ephemeral performances that cannot be easily replicated or mass-produced. This scarcity can make the process of collecting ghost art both challenging and exhilarating, as collectors must be willing to embrace the unpredictable and the unexpected in order to build a truly remarkable collection. When it comes to appreciating ghost art, the experience is often deeply personal and introspective. These works are designed to engage the viewer on a profound level, inviting them to explore the realms of the unseen and the unknown. As such, the process of engaging with ghost art often requires a willingness to let go of preconceptions and to embrace the power of the imagination. Collectors and art enthusiasts who are able to do so are often rewarded with a heightened sense of awareness, a deeper understanding of the human experience, and a renewed appreciation for the transformative power of artistic expression. Beyond the individual experience of collecting and appreciating ghost art, there is also a growing community of enthusiasts and advocates who are working to promote and preserve this unique form of artistic expression. From curators and gallerists to art critics and historians, these individuals are dedicated to ensuring that the legacy of ghost art continues to be celebrated and explored for generations to come. Through their efforts, the beauty and significance of ghost art are being brought to the forefront of the art world, inspiring new generations of artists and collectors to engage with the mysteries and wonders of the unseen.

Ghost art in popular culture and media

The captivating and enigmatic nature of ghost art has not gone unnoticed in the realm of popular culture and media. In recent years, the influence of this unique form of artistic expression has been felt across a wide range of creative disciplines, from film and television to music and fashion. In the world of cinema, ghost art has been a source of inspiration for filmmakers who seek to explore the themes of the unseen and the ethereal. From the dreamlike, surreal landscapes of Andrei Tarkovsky's "Stalker" to the haunting, minimalist installations in Darren Aronofsky's "mother!", ghost art has been used to create a sense of mystery and wonder that captivates audiences and invites them to delve deeper into the realms of the imagination. In the realm of music, ghost art has also found a powerful expression. Artists like Sigur Rós and Bon Iver have incorporated elements of ghost art into their work, using ethereal soundscapes and atmospheric textures to create a sense of the otherworldly and the transcendent. Similarly, in the world of fashion, designers like Alexander McQueen and Yohji Yamamoto have drawn inspiration from the themes and techniques of ghost art, creating garments that seem to defy the boundaries of the physical world and invite the wearer to explore the depths of their own creativity and self-expression. Beyond these direct artistic collaborations, the influence of ghost art can also be seen in the broader cultural landscape. The rise of immersive, experiential art installations and events, such as the popular "Infinity Rooms" of Yayoi Kusama, have captured the public's imagination and sparked a renewed interest in the power of the unseen and the intangible. As more and more people are exposed to the captivating world of ghost art, the impact of this unique form of artistic expression is likely to continue to grow, inspiring new generations of artists, creators, and art enthusiasts to explore the mysteries and wonders of the unseen.

Conclusion: The enduring allure of ghost art

In the ever-evolving landscape of the art world, the enduring allure of ghost art lies in its ability to captivate the human imagination and to challenge our fundamental understanding of the nature of reality. Through the use of translucent materials, ethereal light, and minimalist compositions, ghost artists have created a realm of artistic expression that exists in a liminal space between the visible and the invisible, the tangible and the intangible. This exploration of the unseen has profound implications for the way we engage with art and the world around us. By inviting us to confront the limitations of our own senses and to consider the vast realms of the unknown, ghost art encourages us to cultivate a deeper sense of wonder, curiosity, and contemplation. It reminds us that true artistic expression can transcend the boundaries of the material world, tapping into the deeper recesses of the human psyche and the collective unconscious. As the influence of ghost art continues to ripple through the art world and beyond, it is clear that this unique form of artistic expression will continue to captivate and inspire audiences for generations to come. Whether through immersive installations, thought-provoking paintings, or captivating performances, ghost art has the power to transport us to a realm of pure imagination, where the boundaries between the seen and the unseen are blurred, and the mysteries of the universe are laid bare for us to explore and uncover. It is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the human spirit, and a reminder that the beauty of art lies not only in what is visible, but in what lies beyond the veil of the physical world.

Old road thru small ranches outside Lone Pine, California. A frequent route to the foothills and canyons.

Finding locations requires a lot of time on the road. Driving leads to unexpected sights, new shoot locations and experiences.

We camp, hike and backpack to areas to photograph so preparations for the trips are always going on.

Desert land near Mojave, California

A canyon in the White Mountains, California. Exploring locations along the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains for many years. Often times traveling at night so we can be in the right place for the early daylight hours.

Lone Pine, California, turning point for Mt Whitney, Owens Valley and Death Valley.

Back roads near Olancha, California

Fort Ross State Park, California.

Pear Lake, Sequoia National Park, is a favorite for finding formations and exceptional features.

Generally scenes are found on old trails found in many National Forests and State Parks. Here we are in the hills just above Fort Ross State Park in California.

Coastal hills and forest at Fort Ross State Park

This series explores the earth’s outer most layer as revealed in the uplifted land at coastal cliffs and in the mountains and canyons. The work is done in Death Valley, the Sierra Nevada and White Mountains of eastern California, and along the Northern California coast. It is a record of scenes created over vast lengths of time by the movement of the earth’s tectonic plates. Within many of the pictures is a small glimpse of evolutionary time that is beyond our comprehension.

White Mountains, California, at the ancient bristlecone pine forest.

Within each collage is a random fragment of earth material - stone, cliff, driftwood, wave, sky, created by the progress of time. While the images can be displayed as individual works, they are intended to be paired in vertical and horizonal arrangements. As image pairs, associations arise that increase graphic interest and personal response. The collages create a scene that has a new perspective and mystery. A perspective that links remote places with imagination and discovery.

The prints are concerned with the natural world and its visual manifestations. They document the earth as immensely powerful, the originator and author of all things. These images allow us the opportunity to consider more closely our place in the environment.

INFLUENCES : include artist such as Joseph Cornell, Emily Dickinson, Bruce Nauman, Wolfgang Laib, Richard Long and Andy Goldsworthy

Campsite at Ellery Lake, Tioga Pass road, California

TOM RICHARD is an American land artist. He was born in Fort Walton, Florida. From an early age he has been interested in exploring the natural environment of his surroundings. He started taking pictures with a Brownie Kodak camera at age 10. He studied art and photography at the University of Dallas, Texas (under graduate) and at the University of Texas at Austin (graduate). Using high resolution photographs, he documents the uplift and erosion of ancient strata and earth formations. These he sometimes combines with ocean and driftwood scenes he finds along the coast. He works primarily in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Death Valley and along the coast of northern California.

Ladder Lake, Yosemite, California

Death Valley near Stovepipe Wells, California

Other on-going work includes a video project called Ocean Series (see oceanseries.net) for public sites in architectural settings, Freeways (see daylightgallery.net) videos and prints that document commercial trucks and the environment. His Landscape photographs are seen at tomyglesias.com and landviews.net. In the 1990’s he completed a series of large (up to 20 feet long) bronze public sculptures, Bronze Ocean, which are in the collections of the government of Saudi Arabia in Riyadh at the King Faisal Foundation building and in the collection of Mr. & Mrs. Ambani of Mumbai, India, in their private residence. Tom lives near San Francisco, California with his wife Marge.

EQUIPMENT

Phase One P65 Camera, Fujica GW690, and the Sony 7RIV Camera

COMMISSIONS

the King Faisal Foundation, Riyadh, Saudi Araba, 2000.

Mr. & Ms. Ambani of Mumbai, India, 2010.

O.K. Harris Gallery Estate, New York City, 2005.

AWARDS and EXHIBITS

Art in General, New York, New York, 2004 O.K. Harris Gallery show, New York, New York, 2005 The New York Art World Magazine, Review by Joel Simpson, Jan. 2005 Del Mar Gallery, Del Mar, Ca., 2008 - 2020 Cambridge Art Show, First Place, New York, New York, 2005 Soho Photo Gallery, First Place, New York, New York, 2005 National Sculpture Society, First Place, New York, New York, 1979 Marin art Council Show and grant, Marin County, Ca., 2004 Princeton Architectural Press, “Transmaterial”, B. Brownell - editor, Featured work, 2005 B.J. Spoke Gallery show, New York, New York, 2006 Katherine Chapin Fine Art, New York, New York Alessandro Berni Gallery, New York, New York, 2021 - 24

OTHER CURRENT WORK

oceanseries.net

large video displays for architectural settings

daylightgallery.net

FREEWAYS - prints and video displays with an environmental message

oceanbronze.com

OCEAN BRONZE - large functional bronze designs