Stranding Shadows is a continuation of my augmented reality (AR) practice where 3D animated subjects and scenery are integrated into physical photographs.

This body of work evolved during a transitional period in my life when I experienced a sense of loss and detachment from people, things, and places close to me.  This time of turmoil and disorder led me on a path of vigorous self reflection, mindfulness practices, and a keen curiosity for shadow work.  I was heavily inspired by the work of psychiatrist Carl Jung and his writings on the archetype he coined the shadow, classified as the dark side of our nature - the rejected side of our psyche that we choose not to see.  The impulses, the repressed anger, the unacceptable desires, the insecurities and fears that stem from a place, when realized and confronted, become a source of renewal and a doorway into our individual realities.  In a time when my sense of self was shattered, a disorienting and deeply painful period, I found refuge in the conversations with my shadow and since have strived to cultivate a deep and more intimate understanding of my Self.  Hence, this work is an homage to the shadow that lurks between the crevices of our thoughts and emotions, and when recognized, can render the light that shines still behind it. 

This series marks my first body of work to incorporate color.  I chose to limit my palette to a maximum of three colors per image and only apply color through the use of lights.  Using a combination of textured blank walls and black void-like backdrops allowed me to focus solely on the figures’ relation to the light source and the negative space that embodied them.  Using the process of photogrammetry, a figure was 3D scanned and constructed in a virtual environment, allowing me to compose, light, and animate the subject both for the production of the static imagery as well as for the virtual content experienced in the AR aspect.  Many of the virtual scenes contain the ability to tap, swipe, or pinch components on screen.  In certain cases the intent of including interaction is to advance the narrative.  In other instances, it’s meant to enhance the underlying subtext presented in the static image.  Most importantly this tactile quality is incorporated to inspire a sense of playfulness and discovery.

Artist Bio

Camila Magrane is a Venezuelan-American visual artist most noted for her augmented reality (AR) images where she integrates 3D animated subjects and scenery into physical photographs. With a background in video game development and a strong passion for analog photography, her interest lies in developing a dialogue between the virtual and the physical. Magrane’s images are inspired by surrealist compositions - rooted in the unconscious, dream-like, sensuous, and unsettling. At the same time, the works reference the graphic hyperrealism of contemporary video game design which continues to be an integral part of her artistic practice. She holds a B.S. in Computer Science and previously worked as a cinematic artist in the game industry. She now teaches independent game design and development classes online.

Camila Magrane has exhibited work internationally in numerous exhibitions, fairs, and festivals. Selected clients include Adobe, California Academy of Sciences, Exploratorium, Gray Area, and the Las Vegas Downtown Grand. Selected press inquiries include Forbes, LenScratch, Refinery29, Wired Magazine, and the Las Vegas Weekly.

Camila currently lives and works in Twentynine Palms, CA.

"Traces" explores the relationship between the past and the present with a focus on the process of transformation as the connecting thread. The work consists of a series of collages and a collection of polaroids that are accompanied by animations and video clips seen solely through the use of an augmented reality application (Virtual Mutations).

The scenarios presented in the static images act as literal stages for animated narratives. What once was a captured single moment echoes into motion, creating an additional layer as to what will come thereafter. A dialogue between the past and the present is established and the app itself acts as a mediator between these tenses, allowing the observer to have a glimpse of the afterthought. that range from digital collages to Polaroid instant film.