September 10, 2022 through October 05, 2022
Chris Villiers • They Named Our City For Him
They Named Our City For Him
Photographs from Chief Sealth’s gravesite
Please join us for an Artist’ Reception on Saturday, Sept 24 from 1-3pm.
On the Port Madison Indian Reservation, less than 15 miles across the water from Seattle, is the gravesite of the Native American chief for whom the city was named. Still in use today, the old cemetery rests behind the white clapboard church of St. Peter Catholic Mission. Unlike many cemeteries, this one isn’t perfectly manicured. It’s a bit messy like life itself. Weeds grow. The ground is uneven. Flags mark most headstones. Family members and nearby residents leave gifts to honor both the recently passed and distant ancestors.
During the past few years, as I crossed Puget Sound to visit my father who is now well into his 90s, I’ve stopped at the graveyard at different times of day and in different seasons to photograph headstones and document gifts left behind.
In these platinum-toned Kallitype prints, I have tried to respect the fact that Native Americans consider their ancestors’ graves sacred while also pointing out how, in my culture, few think twice about wandering away from the tombs of our forefathers. I have tried to reflect on the fleeting nature of our lives, especially as my father approaches his own centenary. And, most of all, I’ve tried to honestly reflect on history.
Chris Villiers
Web: www.chrisvilliers.net
Email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Chris Villiers is a Northwest-based photographer working in digital, film and historical processes. Originally trained as a writer, he began pursuing photography over a decade ago toward the tail end of a 30-year career in corporate communications and journalism.
Villiers’ photography tends to explore singular themes using multiple cameras, perspectives and techniques. The element of chance frequently is incorporated into his images by distressing negatives with alcohol, salt, lemon juice, household cleaners or abrasive tools.
He is inspired by photographers of the first half of the 20th century who mastered the art of telling complex stories in a single black-and-white frame. He also is influenced by the Pop Art movement, which colored most aspects of his daily life while growing up.
Villiers earned a B.A. in English Literature/Creative Writing from the University of Washington, and recently studied at Photographic Center Northwest in Seattle. His work has been featured at Fogue Studios and Gallery in Seattle, Midwest Center for Photography in Wichita, Las Laguna Gallery in California, Photo Place Gallery in Vermont, and Black & White magazine.