Nineteenth International Conference on the Arts in Society

Abstract

Digital-altered photographs are now popular among artists due to advancements in digital technology. Manipulating or compositing, artists who produce digital-altered photographs not only deliver impressive technological effects, but also, and perhaps more importantly, capitalize on the style’s ability to express their particular messages. To gain a better understanding of these photographers’ digital-altered photographs, I propose that we investigate the artist’s views of reality by asking, “What is your definition of reality?” and “How do you visualize your reality in your digital-altered photographs?” This paper cites contemporary photographer Jessica Labatte’s Spotting projects as an example. Based on the analysis of Labatte’s views of reality and the interpretation of her views through theories, her view exemplifies British philosopher John Locke’s empiricism and the knowledge her photographs provide to viewers is realist representation of hidden and unseen bodily experiences. This study has implications for how digital-altered photographs can be studied and taught in college-level photography classes.