Arriving Somewhere

Artist Angshuman Sarkar‘s photography exhibition Arriving Somewhere presents a documentary exploration of the American landscape through the eyes of an immigrant artist. The exhibition features photographs that capture the beauty and complexity of the American landscape, from natural formations to the topological landscapes shaped by human activity.

Consisting of two main sections, “natural landscapes” and “topological landscapes”, Arriving Somewhere is a series of photographs documenting the natural beauty of the American landscape (including geological formations, canyons, and deserts) with a second section exploring the impact of human activity on the landscape (industrial zones, urban areas, and transportation infrastructure).

Arriving Somewhere highlights the complexity and diversity of the American landscape, prompting reflection on the impact human activity has had on the environment. Sarkar’s photographs invite viewers to consider their own relationship with the natural world and to reflect on their responsibility to preserve and protect it. In addition to exploring the natural and human-altered landscapes, Arriving Somewhere also considers the political and cultural divisions that can arise from these changes. Washington state is a microcosm of the American landscape in general, it has clear demarcations of red and blue areas. Arriving Somewhere explores these divisions through photographs of two contrasting areas in the state: rural eastern Washington, which tends to be more conservative and Republican-leaning, and the urban western Washington, which tends to be more liberal and Democratic-leaning.

Designed to immerse viewers in the landscape, Sarkar’s work creates a contemplative atmosphere, inviting viewers to slow down. Using Washington as a case study, Arriving Somewhere offers a documentary exploration of political and cultural divisions that can arise from changes in landscape, while also reflecting on the beauty and complexity of the natural world and our impact in it.

Arriving Somewhere will be on display at Gallery 110 from November 2 – December 2, 2023. Gallery hours are Thursday – Saturday from 12pm – 5pm and by appointment.