This new, online workshop offers a rare and unique opportunity to experiment with alternative approaches to the landscape under the guidance of photographer and video installation artist Elena Dorfman. Over three weeks this winter, explore myriad ways to reconsider the landscape in relation to photography, delving into new ideas and looking at historical examples that provide reference points for you to hone your own aesthetic. As Elena challenges you to see landscapes differently, you find yourself contemplating your personal vision and your relationship to the environment.

This is a workshop that incorporates the physical act of taking pictures, the manual task of working with Photoshop and alternative materials, and the mental rigor required to take your work to the next level.

Twice-a-week group sessions include instruction, demos, discussions, slideshows of both contemporary and historic alternative practices, and image reviews. Assignments allow you to work remotely with consistency and depth while exploring locations of your choosing.

Elena leads you to materials that enhance your images. This can include unconventional tools including prisms, gels, cracked filters, and vintage lenses, which she guides you to in advance. Afterwards, we edit and refine your images in Photoshop. This process may incorporate layering or collaging your images as well as adding found elements, such as archival photos, text, graphics, and maps. And to take this one step further, Elena is prepared to guide you in paper manipulation or gold, silver, or copper leafing directly on your prints.

Venture on a journey of exploration and inspiration as you capture and realize landscapes in new and surprising ways.