Robert J. Kelly
(b. 1956)
Shadows of What Lies Beyond, 1988
Cibachrome print, edition 63 of 150
inscribed verso: "SHADOWS OF WHAT LIES BEYOND"; 63/150 Robert J Kelly
includes COA from artist affixed to verso
Robert J. Kelly (b. 1956) is a photographer and painter based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Early in his career, when attempting to use materials that would give his images the greatest degree of permanence, Kelly discovered Cibachrome. Today, Kelly considers himself a printmaker, constantly experimenting with the latest technology in order to produce an exceptional final image. A self-described “light painter,” the artist studied at the Winona School of Professional Photography, the Maine Photographic Workshops at Rockport, and under the tutelage and together with Ted Orland and Dan Anderson. Greatly influenced by the work of Linda Lapp and David Muench, Kelly aims to capture “sweet light” in his photographs: “In Europe they call it ‘even fall.’ Here they call it ‘magic light’ or ‘sweet light.’ It’s usually found at the beginning or end of the day when the contrast is lower, as opposed to midday when the contrast is at its most extreme with extremely harsh shadows. I just like the subtlety. Also, I think it’s that one particular moment when you get luminosity from everything that you don’t get at any other time in the day. There’s a glow to it, and that’s basically what I try to catch … There has to be some sort of transcendent quality to my photographs, whether it’s spiritual, emotional, psychological or humorous. It has to have that transcendent quality for me to feel successful with the image.”
32 x 32 in. (81.28 x 81.28 cm.), Frame: 41 1/8 x 41 1/8 x 2 in. (104.46 x 104.46 x 5.08 cm.)
The Artist
Private Collection, New Mexico

The photograph is in overall excellent. Surface has been coated with 3M Luster Overlaminate protecting sealant. Frame in very good condition, with minor wear to corners.

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