This September, Found Gallery celebrates the soon-to-be-defunct Polaroid instant technology by showcasing several local artists with close ties to the photographic medium. As the instant photo giant bows gracefully out of the business this year, there is perhaps no better time to celebrate the beautiful and nostalgic medium, as demand for its unapologetically, yet gorgeously low-fi aesthetic has never been so high. What once held the novel “Hey Ma, no developing!” appeal only decades ago is now heralded as the alternative medium of choice for legions of photographers (amateur and otherwise). But did we always see the grace in the graininess of such images? Did we always praise its antiques colors? Or is the current allure of the Polaroid attributed mainly to the fact that we always want what we can’t have?

Perhaps to many people, the discontinuation of instant Polaroids symbolizes the depersonalization of modern technology. For many, such pictures are tied closely to memories of childhood, of family. Perhaps we realize that the physicality of holding a precious image in your hand might be a feeling as increasingly obsolete as the medium itself.

As Polaroid closes the door on instant photography, Found Gallery champions the dying medium, examining its value as an increasingly precious commodity.

The show will be curated by Ashley Tibbits. Hailing from the Midwest, Tibbits received a bachelor’s degree in Art History from Bradley University. The writer/editor contributes to outlets like Flavorpill, ArtWeek, and whitehot magazine among others.

Participating Artist(s):

Selected work from Camera Ephemera:

Press for Camera Ephemera:

Flavorpill, OrangeLife