Originally
from New York City, I have been residing in Columbia, SC since 2005 after
having lived in the West for many years. I’ve taken photos for decades since
getting by first camera in the ’70s. In
the beginning they were snapshots, but over time I strove to make what I call
impressionistic interpretations of the stark reality in front of the camera.
I have experimented with different techniques to soften the image, sometimes seeking a
degree of ambiguity that hopefully evokes questions and feelings from
the viewer. I’m still exploring
different compositional and technical approaches as a means of expressing my
own photographic language. Digital
dodging and burning, emphasizing light and shadow, intentional blurring,
seeking complementary colors when possible, and creating composites when
appropriate are a few of the techniques I use.
The images
labeled Mobile II and Majestic Perch reflect my approach to photography. One was inspired by a large mobile I saw at a
national museum. By isolating it from
its surroundings, cropping to change the composition and altering the colors,
the abstract beauty of the piece has been emphasized. The majestic looking bird
withstanding a downpour was taken in my
backyard. It reminded me of the times
I’ve been caught unprepared for rain and had no choice but to endure it. The
owl was made the center point by being surrounded by foliage with reduced
vibrancy and made blurred by the rain and slow shutter speed.
Lately, I’ve
returned more frequently to creating B&W images, which in themselves are a
step from reality. My subjects can be anywhere and anything providing they
communicate something to me and hopefully the viewer. I’m honored to have had my work recognized in juried exhibitions, including ArtFields, the Anderson
Arts Center, the South Carolina State Museum, and the Biennale in Hilton
Head. In addition, some pieces have been sold to
private collectors.
