Act II: The Voyage: And strange Botanical Species Possibly 1980 - 1981

This photograph by Arthur Tress stages a kind of theatrical reverie. Tress seems to relish the process of world-building here. Notice the way Tress layers elements, like the cut-out backdrop of a forest scene. It's like a stage set, but one that's been cobbled together with bits and pieces of dreams. In the foreground are two 'Botanical Species', one holding a glowing lightbulb. This is not a seamless digital rendering but rather something that's been built by hand, with visible seams and juxtapositions that are part of its oddball charm. The objects have a tactile quality, like props waiting to be picked up and brought to life. You might relate this to the work of people like Lucas Samaras, who also built fantastical assemblages that seem to be coming to life right before your eyes. In the end, it's about embracing the weird, unexpected, and multiple possibilities of art.