"Untouchable" HIV Project. 2003 - Present { 34 images } Created 10 Aug 2020
This art project is born from my innate curiosity about the world around me, both present and past, as well as the introspective exploration of my inner world. My artistic endeavors have predominantly been deeply personal journeys, often involving the creation of cameras that delve into pivotal moments in my personal history.
The genesis of "The Untouchable" or HIV Camera can be traced back to a poignant conversation with one of my closest friends who shared his experiences before and after being diagnosed as HIV positive. The discussions illuminated the stark contrast in our perceptions of the world and how society views him, marred by the stigma associated with HIV. This served as the impetus for the creation of the "Untouchable" project—a collaborative effort with my friend to foster understanding, with the ultimate aspiration of transcending HIV as a health, social and political concern.
The intricately designed Untouchable camera features three transparent cylinders through which HIV-positive blood circulates, facilitated by a pump crafted from Rare Earth Magnets sliding on Titanium rails. The blood then flows between two Acrylic sheets, each five thousandths of an inch apart, mounted in front of the pinhole aperture (lens). Rigorous testing with my own blood, employing Heparin as an anticoagulant and Sodium Chloride 9% for stabilization, revealed that at this thickness, the blood mimics the light restriction of a #25 red filter used in photography. Collaboration with a doctor ensured the proper mixture of my friend's blood for insertion into the camera. Every component, except for the 10,000 psi military aircraft hydraulic lines and fittings, is meticulously fabricated from solid blocks of Aircraft grade aluminum, titanium, and copper, secured with military-grade titanium nuts, bolts, and screws.
The Untouchable camera is purposefully designed for a photo series that serves as a profound study of individuals living with HIV and AIDS. Each photograph is captured through and altered by HIV-positive blood, with the distinctive red hues in the portraits derived from the blood within the camera. To date, Untouchable has documented approximately 80 individuals affected by HIV, spanning diverse demographics from San Francisco to Michigan. Future plans include extending this impactful project to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Currently exhibited at ArtisanWorks in Rochester, NY, the "Untouchable" camera/photo installation invites viewers to engage with a unique perspective on living with HIV, prompting contemplation on the intersection of art, science, and societal perceptions.
The genesis of "The Untouchable" or HIV Camera can be traced back to a poignant conversation with one of my closest friends who shared his experiences before and after being diagnosed as HIV positive. The discussions illuminated the stark contrast in our perceptions of the world and how society views him, marred by the stigma associated with HIV. This served as the impetus for the creation of the "Untouchable" project—a collaborative effort with my friend to foster understanding, with the ultimate aspiration of transcending HIV as a health, social and political concern.
The intricately designed Untouchable camera features three transparent cylinders through which HIV-positive blood circulates, facilitated by a pump crafted from Rare Earth Magnets sliding on Titanium rails. The blood then flows between two Acrylic sheets, each five thousandths of an inch apart, mounted in front of the pinhole aperture (lens). Rigorous testing with my own blood, employing Heparin as an anticoagulant and Sodium Chloride 9% for stabilization, revealed that at this thickness, the blood mimics the light restriction of a #25 red filter used in photography. Collaboration with a doctor ensured the proper mixture of my friend's blood for insertion into the camera. Every component, except for the 10,000 psi military aircraft hydraulic lines and fittings, is meticulously fabricated from solid blocks of Aircraft grade aluminum, titanium, and copper, secured with military-grade titanium nuts, bolts, and screws.
The Untouchable camera is purposefully designed for a photo series that serves as a profound study of individuals living with HIV and AIDS. Each photograph is captured through and altered by HIV-positive blood, with the distinctive red hues in the portraits derived from the blood within the camera. To date, Untouchable has documented approximately 80 individuals affected by HIV, spanning diverse demographics from San Francisco to Michigan. Future plans include extending this impactful project to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Currently exhibited at ArtisanWorks in Rochester, NY, the "Untouchable" camera/photo installation invites viewers to engage with a unique perspective on living with HIV, prompting contemplation on the intersection of art, science, and societal perceptions.
