As close to a space adventure as I'll ever get: RUSSIA! checks out the mighty fine Vincent Fournier photography exhibition "Space Project," at Clic Gallery through November 1st.

Space Project: BORIS

Of all the photographs in Space Project, this image of a Russian astronaut photographed at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center — despite the surreal, national-trademark of a wallpaper — is the most tethered to Earth. Staring at the stunning prints of canyons and hills at the Mars Desert Research Station in Utah makes one reconsider those faked-Moon-landing conspiracies — apparently, Utah is that extraterrestrial. Fournier's photographs from space training facilities in the world's most desolate places reveal blinking machines and phantasmagorical landscapes. These scenes are real — fodder for the science-fiction they're confused with and for tiffs between visitors about whether the collection is more Kubric-eque or Tarkovsky-like.

Fournier's big tip on the secret space race: While Russia's future astronauts are clinking around with old-school aquatic equipment, Americans in little cosmos-suits are busy hobbling about Earth's own natural Mars set in a pre-enactment of Red Planet Manifest Destiny, practicing for exploration years before its predicted date — "collecting rock samples," "discovering water," and never breaking character. So, how do the Russians beat that? That look on your face better be deep and calculating thought, Boris.

Space Project: MDRS 4

Space Project: I.S.S.

Space Project: MDRS 2.

Vincent Fournier's first show in the US is hosted over at SoHo's nifty Clic Gallery & Bookstore in New York. Check them out for signed and rare photography books, special events and exhibitions.

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