Set & Setting is a series of self-portraits which integrate elaborate sets, installations and performance into the final photographic work. This is a premiere of new work to coincide with Glasgow International 2016.
Every image is a scene on its own presenting a story of different allegories and world phenomenon. Hokkanen is interested in blending the collective and the subjective view of the world in her art. Her works deal with ‘large’ issues but presents them in a playful and parodic way which challenges naïve realism. In some ways they are 2D outcomes of a 3D comic set, and she references the cartoon style in her practice. This allows her to work with humour that tends to soften the otherwise cruel themes. The images always feature a protagonist, the one through whom the situation can be seen. The viewer is invited to interpret the scene based on his/her own experience. This chance of changing the perspective should invoke a question of the “right” or “wrong” way to see or feel the story portrayed.
Hokkanen uses colourful sets to immerse the viewer in the work, whilst at the same time give the opportunity for ambiguity. You can choose to see through the set or take it as a guideline to unveiling what is actually there. This aspect of theatre, believing the story regardless of the non-realistic set is an issue of interest to Hokkanen. How much is your interpretation based on your view of the world, are you looking through the collective narrative or through the character within it?
Programmed as part of:
Street Level Photoworks
103 Trongate
Glasgow
G1 5HD
0141 552 2151
