Entropy

Entropy is a term originated from classical thermodynamics describing the number of possible states of a physical system. In layman’s terms, entropy is often described as a measure of the disorder of a system. One of the fundamental rules of thermodynamics is that the entropy of an isolated system cannot spontaneously decrease. In other words, a result of thermodynamics is that the universe tends to more and more disorder. By analogy, information theory uses the term entropy to quantify the amount of information inherent to a system – as entropy increases, the amount of available information decreases. Entropy is at the core of the directionality of time, and with it at the core of decay, deterioration, as well as the dimming and fading of memory.

Order and disorder, vitality and vapidity – contradiction is a central theme of Shiran’s photographs. The selection of images explores the fleeting bound between the living and inanimate, the interplay of coincidence and intent, and the juxtaposition of light and darkness. The analog production process illuminates the technique, materiality and manual labor involved. Flaws inherent to the process of developing and printing become an integral part of the end product, elevating errors and imperfections to equal standing with the original photograph’s information. Shiran delves into the symbiotic relationship between image and production, concept and materiality, leveraging photgoraphy’s dual nature as both a creative act and a means of documentation. 
 

These photographs are showcased alongside Dina Recanati’s works at the the Dina Recanati Art Foundation’s gallery. Recanati’s matter-focused compositions and semi-abstract imagery served as a guiding influence for Shiran in choosing the exhibition’s photographs.