The Davis Square Community

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Somerville, MA 

The Washington Street Art Center presents:

"Aggressive Recollections - Transnational Cultural Consumption in the 21st Century!" a collection of photographic works by EL Putnam. 

OPENING RECEPTION:  September 6, 2008

ON VIEW: September 6-27, Saturdays 12-4, and by appointment

HI-res photos for the press and interviews are available.

or contact

Washington Street Art Center,

321 Washington Street

Somerville, Ma 02143

617-623-5315

While the camera-toting tourist has become an iconic (and typically negative) representation of the present day recreational traveler, Boston area artist EL Putnam embraces the action of traveling with camera-in-hand. Instead of taking images meant to capture moments as visual souvenirs, Ms. Putnam creates photographs that are meant to deconstruct presumptions concerning tourism and photography, utilizing the camera as a means of exploring the complexities associated with present day U.S. tourism in Havana, Cuba.

The exhibition "Aggressive Recollections" consists of several collections of images created by the artist during her most recent trip to Havana, including double exposures taken with a Holga, images from the world-famous Tropicana nightclub, and a project that documents a postcard writing performance.  While these series may vary in terms of technique and technology, the images were all created as a way for the artist to comprehend the multifacetedness of traveling to a nation that is typically off limits to U.S. citizens.

"Aggressive Recollections" is on display at Gallery 321 at the Washington Street Art Center during the month of September, with an opening reception on Saturday, September 6^th from 6:00-9:00pm.  Normal gallery hours are Saturdays 12:00pm-4:00pm with additional viewings available by appointment.

The Washington Street Art Center houses Gallery 321, hosts studio space for more than twenty visual artists, and presents exhibitions, concerts, film series, and other art initiatives. The Center participates in Somerville Open Studios each May and an annual open studios and craft fair in December.

The Washington Street Art Center is between Union Square and Beacon Street: a five-minute walk from Union Square and a ten-minute walk from Harvard Square (two blocks from Beacon Street). The Center is near or on the following bus routes: 87, 83, 86, and 91. Parking is free and ample.