The Spectacle of “Nothing”: the image, material, and object in a photographic ecosystem of Antarctica

Photographic records of early 1900s polar expeditions encapsulated a paradox: the spectacle “monotonous” “numbing whiteness” in images “nothing” that were intended for public exhibition. This article examines expedition photography as an ecosystem materials and meanings to reconsider status “failed” photographic experiments have remained sublimate iconic exploration. Light sensitive — emulsion layered onto glass plates strips flexible transparent celluloid nitrate film are integral registration image. However, these also susceptible effects humidity, touch variations temperature. Anomalies, such details effaced by overexposure light watermarks registered labour climate These “failed occluded from exhibition, yet remain ideation incomprehensible narratives. In this context, experimental can be read part interactions begins decipher popularity Ponting’s 1911 photograph “Ice-Blink”, image seemingly featureless ocean horizon, commodification discursive spaces