Wim Westfield in southafrika

Photographs by Wim Westfield

How are the photos created?

Each motif is a real, authentic photo taken locally with a high resolution digital camera in full format as a RAW file. A printable image template is created from the RAW file.

Exposure in the special laboratory
These photographs are real photochemical images and no digital prints! In the laboratory, the data is checked, and with a light exposed proof the quality of the final picture is tested. The released file is exposed to photochemical paper in an absolutely dark room with a laser exposure device. In the subsequent process the photo is developed, fixed, watered and dried.

Sealing behind optical acrylic glass
In 1969 the Swiss chemist Heinz Sovilla-Brulhart developed the Diasec process for the permanent sealing of photographical pictures behind acrylic glass. The photo is laminated on aluminum dibond, then light-resistant silicone is applied to the image. At high pressure, optically pure acrylic glass is pressed onto the silicone. The silicone seals, protects and captures different material extensions during temperature fluctuations. The final acrylic glass with integrated UV blockers protects against UV radiation and chemical air contamination.

Brilliant and durable
The images produced this way are distinguished by saturated and brilliant colors. When they are illuminated - whether by daylight or artificial light - a highly optical depth effect, similar to that of a translucent slide, arises.
A special feature of the pictures is the extreme durability. The sealing remains optically highly transparent and color neutral. Thanks to the integrated UV protection, a guarantee of 75 years of unchanged color brilliance is given.
The surfaces are durable and smear-resistant. Scratches can be polished. Today real photochemical images sealed behind optical acrylic glass are the highest quality standard in museums and galleries worldwide. Despite the long and complicated production process (and high price), this technique is particularly appreciated by art collectors due to the photographs’ retaining value.

The beautiful share
Photos by Wim Westfield are shown internationally in museums and galleries. Each motif is made in a limited, numbered and hand signed edition of six copies. Similar to a graphic art, each collector acquires his unique artwork. Due to the limitation, the pictures are of stable value and they usually generate a profit as a financial investment during a subsequent sale.