ARTIST STATEMENT

A mirrored view.  Taking the ordinary and exploring to expose and capture the extraordinary.  I use my Nikon to discover the soul, the id, the sometimes dark but always truthful view of the subject and encapsulate it onto a canvas. Thus begins the process.  Digital imagery is introduced to heighten the intensity, to create the mood and the feeling, or to evoke the emotion.

My camera captures the image and my work flow transform it.  I composite portraits for the whimsical mind.  In my digital darkroom, normalcy is twisted and skewed creating a verisimilitude for the observer. 

Thought, passion and heart go into every aspect of my work . 

The true definition of Art, “the quality, production, expression, or realm of what is beautiful or of more than ordinary significance”. 

I want you to feel what I see…

AbOUT ME

Photography has been an enduring passion of mine from the earliest days of my youth. I vividly recall the momentous experience of crafting a pinhole camera back in 7th grade—an endeavor that marked my full immersion into this captivating art form. As I progressed through high school, my commitment only deepened. I diligently saved every penny to procure a Pentax PZ 1, a significant investment in both monetary and emotional terms, especially for a ninth grader.

With each shutter click, I delved deeper into the realms of creativity, gradually uncovering my true artistic inclinations. Despite prevailing notions at the time, I pursued a degree in commercial photography in college—a decision met with skepticism given the perceived lack of financial viability in the field. Yet, over the past fifteen years, the landscape of photography has undergone a profound transformation, rendering my chosen path not only feasible but also profoundly rewarding.

My journey from film to digital photography was marked by an unyielding passion for pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling. I found myself drawn to narratives that transcended the ordinary, seeking to capture the extraordinary essence lurking beneath the surface of reality. For me, the true essence of photography lies not in the act of capturing but in the process of discovery—peeling back layers to reveal the soul, the essence, the raw truth of my subjects.

Enter the digital realm—a realm where possibilities are limitless, where the mundane can be transformed into the magical with the click of a button. Each shoot begins with a seed of an idea, blossoming into a meticulously crafted concept, complete with bespoke wardrobe, intricate lighting setups, and carefully curated props. Drawing inspiration from diverse sources—be it the graceful flight of a bird, the mystique of ancient mythology, or the poignant struggles of contemporary society—I infuse my own unique perspective, often characterized by a haunting, melancholic undertone.

Collaboration lies at the heart of my creative process—a symbiotic dance between subject and artist, each contributing their essence to weave a tapestry of dreams. From the initial spark of inspiration to the final brushstroke in post-production, every step is imbued with intention, passion, and a relentless pursuit of perfection.

I acknowledge that my artistic vision may not resonate with everyone, but therein lies its beauty—it speaks to those who yearn for an escape, a journey into the unknown, a glimpse of the extraordinary hidden within the mundane. Through my photography, I invite others to join me in this ethereal realm—a realm where reality is but a canvas, waiting to be transformed into a masterpiece of dreams.