Ancient light: Rematerialising the astronomical image

In this time of ecological catastrophe it is important to readdress our tangible material connection with the universe and our planet. By analysing this interaction between astronomy new materialism and photography new insights are provided on how this convergence of theories alters our understanding of the natural world˰ The thesis demonstrates the interconnectedness between the universe humans and photographic materiality. It discusses the importance of investigating the materials that we use daily with a specific focus on waste produced by the photographic industry˰ Understanding more about the interconnected nature of photographic and astronomical materiality it becomes imperative to innovate new methods of sustainable photographic practice.

This research demonstrates analogue photographic processes which are less damaging to the environment˳ including plant̐ based developers and silver reclamation from photographic fixer˰ Distinct from contemporary astronomical photographic images are often digital composites with interpreted colour, Ancient Light demonstrates our intimate connection with the cosmos by examining the tangible entangled connections between the stars˳ human existence and the ecology of planet Earth˰

The thesis advances knowledge in this area by weaving these connections together providing new insights into the materiality of photography through theoretical lenses of varying magnitude from microscopic to cosmic.