Dirk Westphal
2005

'Unlike dubious relaxation videos featuring fish and a soundtrack of soothing music, Dirk Westphal's photos of fish suggest more than just underwater creatures. Photographed in tanks against a glowing white background, the New York artist's images of tropical fish are akin to costumed dancers whirling and balancing for the camera.

Some, as in 'Too Blessed to be depressed' are reminiscent of a studio portrait of a glam rock group as bulbous-eyed fishes with shimmering skin skirt teasingly past the lense. 'Amphiprion Perculae' seems to mimic a microscopic close up of amoeba, while Mr. Lawrence Weltschmerzen and Mrs. Lawrence Weltschmerzen, images of two gold and white patterned fish, are as haughty and put out as any bored portrait sitter could be.'

- Lenny Ann Low

Sydney Morning Herald, Saturday 5 February 2005