In 1983 Polaroid introduced the world's first, and only, 'instant' 35mm slide film a few years after the failure of the Polavision motion picture film and camera system.
Based on the Polavision chemistry and utilizing the purpose-built machinery of its precursor, Polaroid made 4 different 35mm still films: color Polachrome, black and white Polapan and Polagraph, and blue and white Polablue.
While in production for almost 20 years the 35mm instant slide film line was ultimately another failure for Polaroid.
Marketed for business, scientific and professional use these films have impacted both professional and amateur photographers.
Professionals recall proofing fashion shoots before utilizing costly large format film, and the quick turn around of event photos into slide shows before clients departed.
New old stock found its way from bargain bins and auction sites into the hands of amateurs reviving interest into the unique properties, and process, of the film.
To celebrate this film stocks fortieth birthday, exhibit curator and photographer Tim Kujawski recruited photographers to shoot the film in their own style, and contacted others actively using the film.
Displayed are select images created exclusively for the exhibit, images created by other active users, alongside the curators personal works, and original Polaroid products and ephemera.
Contributing artists:
DJ Carr
Eric Pittman
Jake Amadori
Jaya Bhat
Jeannine Swallow
Jeremy Gonzalez
Josh Fox
Kenny Budziszewski
Pat Cray
Steven Tryon
Teo David
Tim Kujawski
and special guests...
August 2 - 16, 2024, WWTS Gallery @ 93 Allen St. Buffalo, NY, USA