Towards Universal Pattern Recognition (2016-2023) is a series of archival photographs that feature subjects experiencing states of spiritual, hedonistic or technological ecstasy.
The photographs are framed under precisely faceted picture lenses, designed by the artist to create multiple refracted images of a specific element within the picture. This mediation of the presented image not only appears to approximate the altered state of consciousness of the photographic subject(s), but it also heightens an awareness of the perspectives of the camera, the beliefs or values of the original photographer and the viewer of the work of art; they are brought into relation around the very notion of capture, witnessing, authenticity and representability.
Jeremy Shaw explores altered mental states, focusing on the aesthetic and scientific valences of psychedelics. His work hints at a visual affinity between the art and science of drug research, and highlights the difficulty of creating an optic record of an experience, especially one beyond the usual register.