PHOTOGRAPHY – PRINTMAKING – PAINTING
By any medium or means, the image remains one and the same, an object, a mirror, a window, etc, etc.
Photo Arts
The created image is important to the extent that it is the evidence, and means in which to engage an audience.
My starting point in photography was the pursuit of creativity, fine art and fast image making. My main interest at the time was the principles of light and shadow, technicalities of optics and the mechanism of cameras. Much more science than art.
My practice included the joys of looking, seeing and capturing a scene as it is, without imposing any form of personal opinions. With the almost silent shutter of the Leica M series cameras, the final images appears as if I was never at the scene.
I am now using the camera to produce abstract capture and unique expressions, through the medium of light transference in photography. All in order to communicate, share my personal ideas, feelings, thoughts and emotions. Still on the journey of creative making of images, I have arrived at an understanding of being able to express myself freely, by whatever means or medium of choice.
Currently, when creating and producing images, there is a cross-fertilisation and synergy between three distinctive disciplines, Painting-Photography-Printmaking.
Printmaking
From the very beginning of my entry into photography, I would process my own Black & White films, and print the selected images in a wet chemical darkroom.
Now working in a dry Lightroom, the original principles remain the same, how to reproduce the fleeting sensations, feelings and emotions captured at the scene.
Monotype printmaking was the freeing-up I needed to work intuitively. Responding directly to the surface and reacting spontaneously to the image that is being created. Whilst working, I am fully aware. that my ideas, imagery, and narratives are fluid. Without rigid restrictions, as you go discoveries are being made and applied.
I view the techniques and discipline of monotype, as essentially the same as making a painting. The completed image printed, is a one-off original and cannot be repeated. The spontaneous reactions are exactly the same, as I now work when making photographs. Finding solutions that are satisfying for the ideas I have in mind.
Painting
No matter from where the inspiration comes, a painting begins internally. The discipline is a meditative deeply focussed practice. There is however, the danger of losing yourself in an imagery space. Unlike photography, the best works are not achieved on the move.
I often question myself when painting. As a contemporary artist, what can I add that is original, unique and maybe of value to the legacy of the visual arts?
Something that is representing who and what I am, including my personal views of the world. It was a long challenging struggle, searching to find a visual language and working method, that is able to express my thoughts with clarity and provide self-satisfaction. I believe my current works show the evidence, I have found my own unique way. The next step, is with the public viewers – out of my control.