Traces explores the relationship between the past and the present with a focus on the process of transformation as the connecting thread. The work consists of a series of collages and a collection of Polaroids that are accompanied by animations and video clips seen solely through the use of an augmented reality application (Virtual Mutations).

The scenarios presented in the static images act as literal stages for animated narratives. What once was a captured single moment echoes into motion, creating an additional layer as to what will come thereafter. A dialogue between the past and the present is established and the app itself acts as a mediator between these tenses, allowing the observer to have a glimpse of the afterthought, that range from digital collages to Polaroid instant film.

About the Artist
Camila Magrane is a multimedia artist originally from Caracas, Venezuela. Having a father from the U.S. and a mother from Venezuela, she grew up alternating between both countries. Being fully exposed to two different cultures gave her a greater understanding of what it means to have various perspectives. After graduating from film school in Caracas, she moved to San Francisco where she freelanced as an editor and camera operator. After discovering a passion for video games and interactive media, Magrane obtained a BS in computer science with a concentration in game development. This eventually led her to working in the game industry as a cinematic artist.

Magrane has been pursuing a professional career as a multimedia artist since 2017, working within a variety of mediums, from photography and collage to animation and virtual/augmented reality (AR). She has been most noted for the creation of her AR image-based work where she’s established a postmodern aesthetic by combining traditional darkroom techniques with the use of digital tools.

Prior to her career in the arts, Magrane worked as a community organizer and teacher, creating and managing a curriculum for teaching 3rd-6th graders coding skills in public schools in Caracas, Venezuela. She continues to be active in community work by giving talks and workshops revolving around the topics of art, technology, and the use of AR as a creative medium.

Camila Magrane has exhibited work internationally in numerous exhibitions, event spaces, fairs, and festivals. Selected exhibitions & clients include The Academy of Sciences, The Exploratorium, Themes+Projects Gallery, Minnesota Street Project, MUKEK, Gray Area, Sothebys, and Adobe. Selected press inquiries include Forbes, Adobe Blog, Refinery29, Lenscratch, Las Vegas Weekly, Las Vegas Review Journal, and Open Studios Guide.