"Gordon Muehle", the self-titled exhibition at River North's Schneider Gallery opened earlier this month and runs until the end of April.  The series of photographs aptly titled "Heroes" is the German photographer's first show in the United States.  The artist began his exploration in photography at a young age, but it wasn't until the early 1990's that Muehle was inspired to work with Polaroids.  The photo compositions and collage work of David Hokney caused the artist to rediscover his chosen medium.

In line with all things German, the assemblage of each work is clean and seamless.  Each Polaroid is precisely laid over the next creating Muehle's systematic vision.  In order to control every step of his process, Muehle built his own camera over a span of two years.  This device allows for the extreme close-up and dramatic light through aperture and shutter controls.  Martha Schneider, director of the gallery, explained to me that Muehle take multiple shots of his subjects then lays every photograph across the ground in order to make his selection.  Each image becomes a tile in his mosaic and because of the nature of the Polaroid SX-70 and 600 film these compositions are truly unique, an aspect that adds to the transitory feel of each of his subjects.

"Heroes" showcases Muehle's skill using a network of Polaroid photographs.  He creates a framework that challenges the boundaries of conventional photography and portraiture.  His sitters are usually placed in the center of the composition and look directly out at the viewer, forcing an enhanced perspective.  Harry Karcz, Priest (2008) is both a celebration and investigation on both power and influence.  Muehle uses the contrast of color and light that adds to the mystery and mastery of this church figure.  The rich red of his vestment and fine detail of its fringe are clear to the viewer, while the iconography of the church's interior is more of an after thought like set pieces on a dark stage.  The statue of Jesus Christ just behind Karcz's left shoulder is lit just enough for the viewer to notice.  The facial expression and cocked head of Father Karcz mimics that of the Christian icon.

Gordon Muehle. Harry Karcz, Priest. Berlin, Germany. 2008.  Polaroid 600 photographs. 83.2 cm x 87.8 cm. Image courtesy of the Schneider Gallery and the artist.

The gallery's statement describes the artist's exploration of this medium as "his own way of seeing."  Muehle's work does just that, however it leaves the question as to whether the artist's objective is to expose the identity of his subjects or choose to reveal only his perspective.

--Robyn Farrell Roulo

(top image: Gordon Muehle © Schneider Gallery)