In her compelling series, “Forefathers,” Susane Attias Gordon delves into the profound and often complex layers of heritage, memory, and the unseen influences that shape our identities. This body of work marks a powerful exploration of the ancestral past, not as a static historical record, but as a living, resonant force that continues to echo in the present.
Attias Gordon approaches the concept of “forefathers” with a nuanced understanding, extending beyond mere lineage to encompass the collective experiences, cultural narratives, and even the unresolved questions inherited from generations past. Her masterful use of collage, a medium inherently suited to the piecing together of fragments, becomes a visual metaphor for the reconstruction of these inherited histories. Vintage photographs of anonymous figures, often faded and bearing the marks of time, are central to this series. These images are not presented as individual portraits but as archetypes, embodying the spirit of those who came before.
Through subtle yet potent juxtapositions, Attias Gordon creates dialogues between past and present. A serene facial expression from an old photograph might be placed alongside a chaotic abstract gesture, suggesting the enduring tranquility amidst historical turmoil. Delicate lace or intricate patterns often frame or integrate with these figures, hinting at the domestic lives, unspoken struggles, and the quiet resilience of those who laid the groundwork for future generations. The inclusion of text fragments, sometimes barely legible, further underscores the elusive nature of memory and the partial truths that trickle down through time.
“Forefathers” is a deeply introspective series that invites viewers to consider their own relationship to their heritage. It speaks to the universal human experience of being shaped by forces beyond our immediate control, while also acknowledging the individual agency in interpreting and carrying forward these legacies. Attias Gordon’s work in this series is a moving tribute to the unseen architects of our present, reminding us that the past is not simply behind us, but flows through us, a constant source of inspiration, mystery, and connection.
Susana Gordon 