When I was young I was very interested in biology and nature. As I studied evolution and ecology I was learning how each one of us is a complete universe within this Universe. Being an artist allows me to investigate, experience, and express how and where I fit into the scheme of life. As I look to the outside world I am really looking within myself. When I have a camera in hand I am an explorer - discovering new relationships and points of view to understand the world and myself better.
My creative image-making process involves curiosity, conceptualizing, creating, and sharing the final work.
Curiosity is the inspiration, the spark that starts the art process and keeps me interested in life. My curiosity can be piqued by a random sunbeam striking a rusty surface, a tidbit on the news that reveals a side of world events I hadn't understood before, or a new piece of equipment or software.
Conceptualizing an idea or previsualizing the image gives me the framework to make decisions about an image. I have to understand what the image is about before I can select the best tools and techniques to express the idea.
Creating the image allows me to work with both my hands and my mind. I actively seek out image elements that will be part of the image and then I turn my mind off and let my hands and experience take over to create the image. In the pauses I carefully study the image - to listen and learn from it - every image teaches me about myself and where I am at a certain point in time and space.
Sharing the work allows the viewer to see, think about, and discuss how I see and interpret the world. A romantic concept at best - but it still reflects the very reason that I became an image-maker - the less isolated we all are from one another the better chance we have to live peacefully together.
Enduring art speaks to the human condition with emotional honesty and clarity. As a practicing artist it is difficult to recognize if my images are or will be of any enduring value. Art is successful if it stimulates a reaction or discussion within the viewer. This process enables art to exist long after the paper has crumbled away or the musical notes have faded into silence.
Technology Issues:
I've used the low tech tools of scissors and glue to create images through to working with high-resolution digital cameras and high-end imaging systems. Although I understand digital technology and use it everyday - I try not to get distracted by it. By choosing the appropriate technology - be it a pair of scissors or a powerful computer - to create an image I am able to concentrate on the creative process.
Please contact me if you have any questions or comments.