Micro Paintings Series (1961)
Back when he was a student of theoretical physics, Herbert W. Franke became interested in the aesthetic effect of scientific images and thought about the possibilities of analytically generating aesthetic structures. This led him to various experiments with light, but he also investigated materials for artistic applications – such as superimposed transparent foils for moiré effects or even plastic tapes. These early series of generative photography were primarily characterized by analytical studies in the context of mathematical structures. But with the advent of computers, Franke also increasingly focused on „random processes“ as a purposefully applied design principle. The 6×6 slide series entitled Mikrogemälde (Micro Paintings) is somewhat out of the ordinary in this respect, as these motifs of generative photography are primarily characterized by such random processes, but hardly by algorithmic procedures.
The series was created through macro-photographic experiments by applying all-purpose glue–mixed with watercolors to the rear 35mm frame glass plate. After drying, it was „sealed“ with the upper plate.
Click here for the other series of the work group Generative Photography:
Series Light Forms
Series Band Forms
Series Spatial Studies
Series Wave Forms