For Jun Nguyen-Hatsushiba’s exhibition “While I am Dead – A Prelude to Life”, we present his main installation, also titled While I am Dead – A Prelude to Life, which comprises of over 200 monochromatic images of various sizes covering the gallery wall.
In this installation, the visitors are encouraged to choose one of the images and trade with their own photographs of daily encounters. The trading allows visitors to take home the artist’s work, while the participants’ images remain part of the exhibit for subsequent guests to see.
We have included a FAQ in case you may have any questions regarding the participatory installation.
If you have any further questions, then please feel free to contact us.
Q: What size of a photograph should I bring?
A: The collection consists of three sizes: 4″x6″ (10 x 15 cm) , 8.5″x11″ (21.6 x 28 cm) and 13″x19″ (33 x 48 cm) archival prints (mostly on Hahnemuhle Photo Rag Baryta, 315 gsm paper). Visitors may bring any type of photographic print on any paper. The size of the print you bring should replace the area of the photograph on the wall. For example, if you bring a 4″x6″ (10 x 15 cm) photograph, you are entitled to trade with the same or similar size of a photograph on the wall. You may wish to bring a few different sizes of photographs allowing you to consider your trade option when you arrive at the gallery. (The procedure of exchanging the photographs will be done by the staffs)
Q: What kind of photo should I bring?
A: This is really up to you. Consider a photograph you feel good and proud of. A photograph with a story you wish to share with the artist. All of the photographs taken by the artist in this installation are in BW. However, you are welcome to bring a color photograph if you wish. The subject matter is open: The installation has street photography, daily-life documentaries, portraits, family casuals, events, sports, musical performances, artistic photographs. Please note that you must be the owner/photographer of the image.
Q: Are inkjet prints ok?
A: Yes, any type of photographic print is fine including prints from the darkroom, color and BW.
Q: Do I get back my photograph?
A: This interactive installation is about trading your photograph with the artist. You will keep the artist’s photograph in exchange for your photograph. Therefore, you will not get your photograph back.
Q: What happens with my photograph after the trade?
A: Your photograph will replace the photograph you wish to take from the wall. Your photograph will remain in the exhibition as a part of the art installation. After the exhibition closes, the artist will archive your photograph as a memory.
Q: Who is eligible to participate?
A: Anyone at any age are welcome. You must be at the gallery in person to participate. There is no online exchange platform.
Q: Are professional photographers eligible to participate?
A: Yes, most definitely! You can be a professional, an enthusiast, lover of photography, or a beginner.
Q: Can I trade a photograph made with a smartphone?
A: Yes, as long as it prints nicely to the size you want.
We will be installing a printer at the venue, where the guests willl be able to print on the spot.
Q: Is there a limited number of trade I can make?
A: Yes, one exchange per visit. But you are welcome to revisit many times.
Click here for the exhibition page on Jun Nguyen-Hatsushiba’s “While I am Dead – A Prelude to Life”.
