CHALLENGE ARTISTS > 2001-2002 >

Rita Bernstein

	Maggie, 2000, gelatin silver photograph, 9 1/2 x 11" inches

Rita Bernstein presents a series of silver gelatin photographs depicting moments in the lives of children. Bernstein is primarily interested in the invisible parts of a photograph; the boundary between the interior and exterior selves, the collision between our subconscious and conscious thoughts. The human psyche guards its secrets closely, and Bernstein looks everywhere for clues, finding them frequently in the unguarded activities of children. Children practice the subtle and complex dance of social interaction, advancing and retreating, motivated by their needs and constrained by their fears. Bernstein's favorite pictures speak of moments she vaguely remembers in a language she almost understands. Ms. Bernstein received her BA from Barnard College and JD from University of Pennsylvania Law School.