Paul Emmanuel's work in recent years has been informed by his interest in the "documentary" nature of photography and in the printmaking concept of leaving impressions. Transitions comprises a series of five seemingly "photographic" artworks and a film. When examined closely, each artwork is revealed to be a sequence of photorealist drawings.

By using a fine steel blade to obsessively scratch away the black exposed and processed emulsion that coats photographic paper, the artist-over a period of three years-"drew" every shadow and every highlight in an attempt to hold on to a significant and fleeting moment. The rust midtones were created by little more than the weight of the blade partially wearing away the photographic emulsion. The filmlike progressions capture moments found throughout five transitory stages of life, exploring liminal experiences within society and how they resonate with the artist.

Courtesy Spier Contemporary Collection