Glen Foster: Plutonic Outbursts

Intricate photos of the Mount Kilauea lava fields

The 100 Mile Arts Network presents Plutonic Outbursts, a solo exhibition by local artist Glen Foster. This collection of large-scale abstract prints represents a decade-long exploration of geological history, physics, and the human habit of finding meaning in the inanimate.

The Evolution of a Decade

While wandering the lava fields of Hawaii’s Mount Kilauea, Foster was drawn to the unique forms of the cooled lava. He pulled out his camera and tripod, knowing he would likely never be back. Over the last decade, not quite knowing what to do with them, these observations evolved from literal photographs of geological phenomena into the huge, abstract prints on display today.

Physics at Play

The title Plutonic Outbursts refers to plutons, bodies of intrusive igneous rock that crystallize from magma slowly cooling. These works reflect the journey of rock that was once liquid, deep underground, before solidifying and emerging into a new era.

While the subject matter originates in the intense heat and pressure of the Earth’s crust, the resulting images project a profound sense of stillness. Foster describes the collection as a form of silent, one-on-one communication, offering a space for viewers to find fulfilment in simple, overlooked objects like a rock on the ground.

The Eye of the Beholder

Here’s another interesting term: pareidolia, the human tendency to see recognizable patterns or faces in abstract shapes. Foster intentionally leans into this abstraction, allowing the viewer to dictate the narrative of each piece. He recalls how with his previous abstract photography work, he might perceive an intense scene of judgment, while someone else sees a figure quietly reading in a library. This subjectivity is central to the show, as Foster encourages visitors to engage with the “visual language” of the work and discover their own interpretations within the ancient, frozen textures of the stone.

Artist Statement

“Always be aware of what are often seen as straightforward scenes that pass by us daily. As I was walking the lava fields of Mount Kilauea, the forms of the cooled lava struck me as interesting abstracts. So out comes the camera to compose a series of captures. The captures remained just that for 10 years as I reviewed them regularly. Then finally the treatment needed to show the true beauty of the captures showed itself. This show shows the final result. While simply rock, the images depict a much more organic world. Differences are not such with an open mind.”

Note: Glen Foster has recently joined the Board of Directors of the 100 Mile Arts Network. He applied for, was selected, and prepared this show before his appointment. We’re proud to have working artists like Glen helping drive our organization’s development.