Interimages

Interimages are a type of visual art that combines elements of photography and painting. They are created by photographing a painted surface, which then becomes the subject of a new painting. This process can be repeated multiple times, with each new photograph serving as the basis for the next painting. The resulting artwork often exhibits a unique blend of the original painting's colors, textures, and forms, along with the photographic process's inherent qualities, such as light and shadow.

The concept of interimages was popularized by the American artist Robert Rauschenberg in the 1950s. He used this technique to create a series of works that explored the relationship between painting and photography, as well as the nature of representation and reality. Rauschenberg's interimages often feature abstract compositions with bold colors and dynamic forms, reflecting his interest in the expressive potential of both painting and photography.

Interimages can be created using various materials and techniques. For example, an artist might paint on canvas or paper and then photograph the work using a camera or digital device. The resulting photograph can then be printed and used as the basis for a new painting, which can be painted directly onto the print or transferred to another surface. The process can be repeated as many times as desired, with each new iteration adding to the overall complexity and richness of the artwork.

Interimages have been the subject of numerous exhibitions and publications, and they continue to be a popular subject of study and discussion among artists, critics, and scholars. They offer a unique perspective on the relationship between painting and photography, as well as the nature of representation and reality. By combining the expressive potential of both mediums, interimages offer a powerful and innovative approach to visual art.