On Saturday, I attended a program at the Museum called Conversation with Robert and Shana ParkeHarrison. Works by the ParkeHarrisons are featured in the current photography exhibition Restoration: Robert and Shana ParkeHarrison.
The ParkeHarrisons met at the Kansas City Art Institute and spent plenty of time at the Nelson-Atkins which is right across the street.
The discussion was fascinating as they explained their process. They explained that they don't really consider themselves photographers. Her background is in painting and choreography while his comes out of drawing. They discovered that what they really enjoy is the manipulating of mutliple genres including dance, theatre and painting through photography.
Their process is very labor intensive. They do tons and tons of research as they approach each series such as The Architect's Brother which makes up a large part of the exhibition. Once they feel they have a direction, they build elaborate sets and props. They always work outside which creates its own set of issues including weather and sometimes permissions.
Their works are sometimes whimsical, sometimes despondent. They are intentionally ambiguous but always open to interpretation.
I thought it was interesting when someone in the audience asked how they decide who has the better idea or which direction they will take with a series. The answer was that they are in constant conversation with one another whether they are working or just living as husband and wife. When they have disagreements, they try it both ways and the better idea always becomes evident.
Restoration is on view through Feb. 8. Admission is free.