Central Institute of Forensic Science [CIFS] Crime Investigation Laboratory Series

In this series of images the Bangkok CIFS [Central Institute of Forensic Science] teams perform their routine investigations. The series operates much like a traditional photo essay expanded into a conceptual realm in which all the participants involved, both those behind and in front of the cameras, are participating in a process of exploration and discovery with an emphasis on an inside perspective. The aesthetic of the CIFS images is inspired by the genre of medical photography used in clinical and scientific journals.

The image Skull, Osteology Laboratory CIFS, is of an unidentified young woman in her early thirties who died from a gunshot wound to her head. A bullet pierced her skull on the right side and exited on the left side. By analyzing the bullet trajectory the forensic scientists reconstruct the moment of shooting in order to determine whether it is a case of homicide or suicide.

By contextualizing this dark subject matter within the vernacular of medical photography the viewer engages with the image in an unexpected manner, the cold detached objectivity of medical photography contrasting with the subject matter, adding nuanced layers of complexity to the overall viewing experience.

The pelvic bone gives clues as to subject’s gender. If female whether or not the woman gave birth within her lifetime can also be determined. In this case the shooting victim was a young mother, probably in her early thirties.

A forensic scientist analyzing a semen sample to confirm the identity of a rapist.

A forensic scientist diligently preparing DNA samples for the genetic analyzer. The CIFS laboratories operate under an extreme sterilization protocol. Protective masks, gloves and lab coats are worn at all times.

Previous exhibitions of the CIFS Crime Investigation Laboratory series includes a feature exhibition at the Ilford Galerie Bangkok as part of the Dispatch Project and an official installation in the CIFS main headquarters in the Chaengwattana Government Complex. The images will also be included in the upcoming Dispatch exhibition at the Bangkok Art and Culture Center [BACC] on November 1, 2024.