Sam Contis: Overpass

Overpass is a series of black-and-white photographs by artist Sam Contis that explore the meaning of moving through the landscape. They focus on stiles, which are simple structures that offer a means of passage over walls and fences and allow public access through privately owned land. The photographs become repeating sculptural forms in the landscape, inviting viewers to move freely while also reminding them of the history of enclosure.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 28 October 2022
Publisher: Aperture

Overpass is a captivating exploration of the concept of traversing the landscape. Artist Sam Contis delves into the world of stiles, the humble structures that serve as gateways across walls and fences, granting public access to privately owned land. Through her immersive black-and-white photographs, these stiles transform into repetitive sculptural elements, inviting both freedom of movement and a poignant reflection on the history of enclosure. Crafted from wood and stone, each stile is unique, appearing as directional markers or partially concealed by the encroaching undergrowth. In an essay by writer Daisy Hildyard, the artwork is contextualized within the rich tapestry of British landscape history and contemporary ecological discourse. In a time of growing nationalism and a renewed emphasis on borders, Overpass prompts us to contemplate the ways we navigate boundaries, the ownership of space, and the profound impact we have had on the natural environment. It also offers a thought-provoking glimpse into how we can shape the future of our surroundings.

Dimension: 260 x 177 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781597115391