Alex Mitchell (b. 1992) is a photographer from Toronto, whose work explores the spectrum of Surrealism using an everyday lens. He transforms the mundane, applying a mix of strategic artificial light, rich colours, and a singular point of focus. Close cropping draws attention to material details. Puddle edges resemble waves lapping the shore, blurring the distinctions between up and down. Non-linear shadows create unexpected textures. Against a variety of seemingly quotidian objects, Mitchell calls upon fantastical colour schemes and skylines, resembling rare and unique sunsets – when the light has further to travel and blue rays scatters before they reach us. Pink and purple atmospheres pull the viewer into phenomenological scenarios, where each moment is unpredictable: ephemeral and temperamental. These images revel in opportunity – in aesthetically stimulating moments – and are presented like snapshots from a lucid dream.
Image Credits:
1. Alex Mitchell, Recess (2020). Courtesy of the artist.
2. Alex Mitchell, Sodium (2020). Courtesy of the artist.
3. Alex Mitchell, Untitled 2 (2020). Courtesy of the artist.
4. Alex Mitchell, Midnight Light (2020). Courtesy of the artist.
5. Alex Mitchell, Framing (2020). Courtesy of the artist.
6. Alex Mitchell, Mellow (2020). Courtesy of the artist.
7. Alex Mitchell, Dusk (2020). Courtesy of the artist.
8. Alex Mitchell, Emerald City (2020). Courtesy of the artist.
9. Alex Mitchell, Untitled 1 (2020). Courtesy of the artist.