Artist Statement
The Wild 6. 2021Edition Size 5. Image Size 16x16. Framed Size 28x28.
Click here for the Mushroom photography series.
Photography has been a transformative journey for me, unveiling the beauty and delicacy of the world. Transitioning from a structured corporate setting and embracing a new gender identity, it became a gateway to unleash my creativity. This shift ignited a fresh wave of energy, zeal, and enthusiasm in my life, all of which resonate in the essence of my artistic creations.
Exploring the realms of colored film initially with a 35mm camera, my path led me to the realm of black and white photography. By delving into monochrome, I stripped away the allure of color, allowing me to engage with subjects on a deeper level. Focusing on textures, shapes, forms, staging, and the play of light, I now wield a medium format film camera to capture expressive images.
Describing my process as "painting with light", I draw parallels to a painter's interaction with a canvas. However, in my realm, I work with two light-sensitive canvases: film and photographic paper. Unlike a painter who witnesses the image unfold, I only unveil the final result once the process is complete.
In my artistic process, I meticulously control the tonal range from the deepest blacks to the brightest whites, utilizing light management techniques such as aperture adjustments, filters, and precise exposure times. This attention to detail is crucial in crafting traditional silver gelatin prints, which offer a richness and warmth not found in inkjet prints.
Each print is a deliberate interplay of composition and lighting, allowing me to imbue my images with a spectrum of emotions, from subtle nuances to more pronounced themes. My subject selection, including floral, mushroom, and pear studies, is driven by a personal connection and a desire to evoke a sensory experience in the viewer.
Floral compositions exude sensuality and elegance, appearing almost like delicate sketches or paintings against a pristine white backdrop. The mushroom images transport viewers to a whimsical and otherworldly realm, while my playful and mischievous pear studies add a touch of fantasy and sensuality to my portfolio.
Drawing inspiration from renowned artists like Robert Mapplethorpe, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Edward Weston, my work has been likened to their iconic styles. While influenced by the aesthetics of Group f/64, I continuously push boundaries and innovate, striving to carve out my distinct artistic path through experimentation and fresh approaches.
My artistry is a blend of tradition and innovation, culminating in captivating visuals that invite viewers to explore unique perspectives and narratives, each image telling a story or embodying a concept.
