Nick Veasey challenges our obsessions with superficial appearances by using x-rays to strip back layers of everyday objects and show what it is really like under the surface. He delves inside objects to discover what things are really made of.
In his words, “I like to challenge the automatic way that we react to just physical appearance by highlighting the, often surprising, inner beauty.”
Metaphors of the objects are often used, alluding to the prevalence of surveillance in modern society and the use of x-ray technology.
Creating art with radiation is complex and dangerous but the results continually inspire Veasey to keep experimenting, his works becoming larger and more impressive. He is one of the few artists to master the delicate union of science and art.
The results transcend classification as photographs, having the gravitas to motivate both science institutions and art galleries to acquire his artworks. The Victoria and Albert Museum have recently added his work to the British National Collection of Photography. During 2017-2018 Veasey had a retrospective exhibition at the world’s largest photography museum, Fotografiska, in Stockholm.
“To create art with equipment and technology designed to help big brother delve deeper, to use some of that fancy complicated gadgetry that helps remove the freedom and individuality in our lives, to use that apparatus to create beauty brings a smile to my face.”
