Jamey Stillings: ATACAMA: Renewable Energy and Mining in the High Desert of Chile

(Hardback)

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With ATACAMA, Jamey Stillings again shares his distinctive aerial perspective to examine dramatic large-scale renewable energy projects, the visual dynamic of enormous mining operations and the stark beauty of the Atacama Desert, so often scarred by human activity. Chile produces a third of the world's copper and has the largest known lithium reserves, and we utilize these resources daily in our cars, computers and smartphones. The country's mining industry has traditionally been dependent on imported coal, diesel and natural gas for its energy. Yet the Atacama Desert has excellent solar and wind potential: new renewable energy projects there now supply significant electricity to the northern grid, transmit power to population centers in the south, and are reducing mining's dependence on fossil fuel.

Stillings' aesthetic interest in the human-altered landscape and concerns for environmental sustainability are principal pillars of his work. His photography elicits a critical dialogue about meeting our needs and desires while seeking equilibrium between nature and human activity. ATACAMA, the latest chapter in his ongoing project "Changing Perspectives," shows how photography can concurrently be a source of inspiration, motivation and information, and reminds us that a carbon-constrained future is crucial to a responsible approach to life on earth.

Stillings is that rare mix of artist and activist. He has immersed himself in the scientific literature, informing the creation of his images that are both stunningly beautiful and profoundly instructional. Mark Sloan, Director and Chief Curator, Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art

Reviews

Unlike these marks, Stillings' photographs are never about dead ends or impasses. In fact, his work represents quite the opposite. His lifelong concerns for environmental sustainability, with a special emphasis on renewable energy, remain at the core of his artistic practice.--Linda Alterwitz "Lenscratch"
Stillings not only captures the beautiful and saddening sights most humans will never witness firsthand but also illuminates our current crossroads: as we collectively consider how to live in ways that are less ecologically destructive, we also need to plan for realistic, and even obvious, alternatives like those available in Atacama and clearly identify how we'll transition from one system to the next.--Grace Ebert "Colossal"