Laura Boone: Photographer - IUPUI Cultural Arts Gallery - Jan. 28, 2004 - 2 1/2 stars

Ordinarily an artist's statement enhances and validates their art. It serves as bridge between the artist and the audience because pretty pictures aren't always enough. Fortunately for Boone, her photos are great as is. A typically youngish angst is revealed in the writing and in titles like "Isolate" and "Numb." But in the work itself, very personal, and yet universal, expressions are examined and beautifully, lyrically manifested. A digital print, "Voice," the least impressive image among the silver gelatin and c-type prints displayed, conceptually interprets how much information there is in the world, how hard it is to keep up and how it can make an individual's voice feel smothered. It would make for a great installation. The venue, a concrete block room at the old IUPUI library, is pretty sanitary with an inadequate florescent haze, which is not up to standard with Boone's work. But she hits a home run with her images. Next time pick a venue that compliments the work. Through Feb. 20, 2004; 317-274-3931. -Mary Lee Pappas