Abstract

This study unravels specific elements that, in part, comprise the reflective process that has allowed me to initiate and sustain the production of photographic work. These are: the Self as an exploratory vehicle and producer of art work; the veil of memory utilized in producing such work; and aspects of the myth of Narcissus as it pertains to the creation of art work that embodies the reflective stance. In conjunction with the autobiographical-narrative approach to the topics above, Marcel Proust's process (used to produce A la recherche du temps perdu, (1913-1922)) is explored through Julia Kristeva's insight. In such, aspects of Proust's process and reflective memory as a creative vehicle are discussed as they inform my process. In addition, initiating and maintaining a personal, reflective process for the student in the adult classroom is addressed. An installation consisting of four, polytych works encompassing the reflective stance delineated in this thesis was exhibited at the Belgo Art Center Building, Montreal, Quebec, from Nov. 2 to the 29, 1998.