The genesis of Hockney’s joiners can be traced back to the early 1980s when he began experimenting with Polaroid snapshots to create collages. This experimentation evolved into the use of digital cameras and software, enabling a more sophisticated manipulation of images. Hockney’s digital photomontages, characterised by their seamless integration of numerous photographs, present a dynamic reconstruction of landscapes and interiors. By meticulously arranging and layering these images, Hockney constructs a visual field that transcends the limitations of single-point perspective, inviting viewers to engage with the artwork from multiple vantage points.
Hockney’s digital compositions challenge the static nature of traditional photography by introducing the element of time. Through his joiners, he captures various moments within a single frame, effectively blending past, present, and future. This approach not only disrupts linear narratives but also encourages a more active engagement from the viewer, who must navigate through the complexity of Hockney’s visual spaces.
