Carl Corey
(American; b. 1954; resides in Hudson, WI)
In his series, Observations (2013-2014), Carl Corey travels through small towns in the Midwest, documenting what he sees. His mundane snapshots of discarded homes and properties, for sale signs in desolate fields, and outworn interiors attest to a waning American dream where work ethic remains strong and a way of life is preserved in struggle. Corey’s photographs of public spaces - although unoccupied by people - appear to take on a life of their own. Miniature golf courses, family diners, and supermarket shelves appear as empty as deserted streets. Fundamentally,his photographs share observations while revealing a portrayal of the American experience with a touch of mythology.
Carl Corey completed a BFA in Cinema & Photography from Southern Illinois University (1976). His work has appeared in numerous exhibitions both nationally and internationally, including Blue Sky, Portland, OR (2010), Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, Madison, WI (2007, 2010), and Sherry Leedy Contemporary, Kansas City, MO (2013). His work has been the subject of several publications, including The Tavern League: A Portrait of the Wisconsin Tavern (2011); Contemporary Photography in New York City (2011). He has published monographs of his series Rancher (Bunker Hill/Gallery Print, 2007), and For Love and Money: A Portrait of the Family Business (2014). His work is included in the collections of the Portland Art Museum, Portland, OR, the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, Madison, WI, and the Microsoft Art Collection, among others.
