Linda Burris Webster
A map is a graphic representation, a scale model of spatial concepts. People were compelled to make maps even before they could write. It is one of the ways we make sense of the world. Maps are often considered to be stolid illustrations of borders and landscapes, to be accurate and unbiased. Yet they operate as semi-abstract forms. Within even the simplest map is embedded a political dimension. One needs only to compare the Mercator and Peters world map projections to discover that maps cannot accurately represent both area and shape. As Merriam stated, ‘Incorporated in a map is the understanding that it is a ‘snapshot’ of an idea, a single picture, a selection of concepts…’
As a photographer, I am deeply interested in the use of abstract and semi-abstract forms to convey meaning. Through tearing, twisting, cutting, crumpling and sculpting, I have transformed the familiar into the unfamiliar. Photographing the constructions moves them towards greater abstraction, returning them to two dimensional forms to more fully harness their ambiguity and complexity. The black backgrounds also allow the viewer to gaze upon the reconstructions with minimal distraction. They seek to express the narrative of place as they explore a range of current social and political dilemmas including environmental destruction, human rights violations, economic inequality, political upheaval and corruption.
My aim is to use these images as a vehicle for open-ended enquiries, for a way of exploring and questioning some of the headlines of our increasingly interconnected world. My intention is not to present some binary position of good and evil or right and wrong. I am more interested in inviting the viewer to join me in the exploration of these dilemmas.
Linda Burris Webster is a visual artist working primarily in the medium of photography. Curiosity about people and how social and political issues impact on daily lives underlines her work. Drawing inspiration from research and her own travels and experiences, she uses her photography to explore and raise awareness of dilemmas in various locations around the world.
She has developed her practice through a combination of one to one learning, short courses and being self taught. Her works have appeared in a number of group exhibitions in London, Paris and Brighton; currently her work can be seen at the Katherine Richards Art Gallery in Brighton and at the Saleya Gallery in St. Paul de Vence. She was longlisted for the 2023 Visual Artists Association Professional Artist Award. In addition, her work is held in private collections in America, Australia, the U.K and Congo.
