Elisa Halvorsen Castillo (CL/NO)

“Finnskogen” is a compilation of photographs, drawings and thoughts I collected during a residency in Austmarka, Norway.

"This residency has been divided into 3 periods (1 month in the fall 2022, 2 weeks in spring 2023, and an upcoming 1 month in the winter 2023). Working with Analog Photography and various graphic techniques, I explore how memories and perception are affected by depression and longing."

As part of this project I’ve made a printed publication that contains photos made using experimental analog techniques. Mixing analog photography processes with printmaking techniques, “Finnskogen”

intends to break the walls between both practices. For this project I have developed my own experimental techniques using different dark room chemicals to integrate drawings into the analog developing process.

After every residency period, I make a publication using RISO printing. By choosing this printmaking technique, the photos are transformed into screen-prints, challenging the boundaries of traditional photography.

– Elisa Halvorsen Castillo

Elisa Halvorsen Castillo (CL/NO)

Elisa Halvorsen Castillo (b. 1990) is a Chilean artist with Norwegian ancestry. Established in Oslo after finishing an MFA in the art and craft program at The Oslo National Academy of the Arts (KHIO). Working with analog experimental techniques and self-published artist books, the artist explores the concept of memory and its plasticity, a subject that interests her since she experienced short-term memory loss due to a period of illness in her mid-20ies.

Elisa Halvorsen Castillo

Finnskogen, 2023

Project description

This photobook is a compilation of photographs, drawings and thoughts I collected during a residency in Austmarka, Norway. This residency has been divided in 3 periods (1 month in the fall 2022, 2 weeks in spring 2023, and an upcoming 1 month in the winter 2023). Working with Analog Photography and various graphic techniques, I explore how memories and perception are affected by depression and longing.

"I walk through the woods every day looking for Meaning.

The forest's presence haunts me.

I try to stay calm, if I go away it will get me.

I hear gunshots nearby, if I'm not careful they're going to kill me.

I recognize human forms in my surroundings, like corpses from witches or ancient beings.

The bones become trees.

I walk through the woods every day looking for Meaning.

I can't find anything."

"Finnskogen" contains photos made using experimental analog techniques. Mixing analog photography processes with printmaking techniques, this photobook intends to break the walls between both practices. For this project, I have developed my own experimental techniques using different dark room chemicals to integrate drawings into the analog developing process.

"Finnskogen" has been made using a combination of RISO and letterpress printing. By choosing this printmaking technique, the photos are transformed into screen-prints, challenging the boundaries of traditional photography. This second edition has been bound in an edition of 20 copies.