inkjet archival pigmentprints, seven 40x30cm, 100x70cm, 300x200cm
Redscale is an analogue photographic technique in which a roll of colour film is loaded in reverse, with the emulsion facing away from the incoming light. The light must therefore first pass through the back of the film before reaching the emulsion. Since the light first encounters the red colour layer of the film’s three layers (red, green, and blue), a large portion of the light is absorbed there. The result is images dominated by red and warm tones. The more light that enters, the further the light penetrates through the layers, creating additional shifts in colour.
Genom blodiga tårar is an exploration of this technique and its ability to distort reality. Within an otherwise quiet environment, an apocalyptic charge emerges. The work is based on Bengtsson’s experience that the world around him ought to be on fire, while life simultaneously continues in its ordinary rhythm.
