"By the time we reached the vet's office the dog had transformed into a beautiful cocker spaniel. I looked at him and said, "'You don't look so bad. I think I'll keep you."'
-Jeff Jacobson
Jacobson, J. (2006) "Untitled".
Melting Point, pages 15, 40-41, 74-75.
In brief recollections, photographer Jeff Jacobson reflects on the transitional and formative moments in his life, which form the conceptual core behind his brilliant series of photographs. His photographs often feature amalgamations of images caused by reflections in glass and alterations in perspective. He writes about the process of melting; an older form is distorted and gives birth to a new form. The artist re-examines traumatic moments in his life, and is able to glean a sense of meaning and comfort from them. With candid lucidity he recalls the last words his father spoke to him: "Jeff, you're a nice boy, now leave me alone". Writing about this experience, he is able to reinterpret his pronouncement as a blessing. Jacobson's father, who was suffering from cancer, knew his son's good intentions as he encouraged him to get better, yet he was at peace with the inevitability of his death. Like the photographs he created in the book, the meaning of his father's last words transformed over time.
Jacobson's imagery is vibrant and enigmatic. Deep, unusual colors pour into the frame and lead the viewer's mind wandering. Despite the dramatic feel of his photographs, there is an underlying element of humor in many images. Ancient skeletons, which are featured in multiple images are both grim and absurd.Transformation is one of the key elements of my own work. An unseen act is able to throw a group of onlookers into a state of confused chaos.
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