Throughout my conversations with visual artists and personal introspection, I've been exploring the idea that our art is shaped by how we see the world. This concept deeply resonates with me and has led me to reflect on the factors that have influenced my artistic perspective and worldview.
When it comes to music, I've noticed that melancholic and open-to-interpretation melodies capture my attention the most. Interestingly, as I examine my images, I realize that I'm drawn to those that evoke solitude and resilience. Images with only one person are often found in these compositions, there are also subjects ranging from trees and buildings to discarded objects I stumble upon during my walks.
This inclination towards solitude in my artwork may reflect a similar preference in my personal life. I cherish my alone time, finding solace and tranquillity in moments of self-reflection. It's a chance to slow down and delve deeper into understanding myself.
What is it I truly see when I raise my camera? Is it an extension of my perception or the culmination of my life experiences? Perhaps my artwork speaks volumes about me, revealing aspects I may not consciously realize. This realization empowers me to make conscious choices about the values I want to convey and the aspects of the world I want to celebrate through my art.
My choice of subjects has undergone a recent shift, particularly in my black-and-white work. I've started intentionally underexposing my images, sometimes by 1 to 2 stops. This departure from my previous approach of underexposing just shy of 0.3 stops signifies a significant change in my artistic expression, mirroring the transformation in my worldview.
Embracing this deeper underexposure allows me to express what I currently perceive in my art—a profound darkness with distinct lines and contrasting elements. It compels me to pay attention to every potential detail, which I previously avoided through overexposure and a more carefree approach.
Furthermore, I've always been captivated by visual narratives and storytelling, which have been greatly influenced by music throughout my life. I've often created mental music videos, transforming song lyrics into moving images. This lifelong connection with music has significantly shaped the way I perceive the world around me.
In my work, I aspire to use symbolism and evoke emotions without relying heavily on dialogue or explicit explanations. I believe that through this form of artistic expression, I can challenge societal norms, provoke thoughts, and inspire others with my unique worldview.
As a significant step towards this artistic journey, I've decided to leave social media behind. It feels like a sculptor facing a block of marble, ready to shape it into something extraordinary. I anticipate challenges along the way, understanding that some cracks might appear and pieces may fall off, but I remain confident that my art will eventually take form and allow me to express myself authentically.
I want to end this by asking. Have you noticed yourself approaching your art with the idea of applying your worldview through your artistic expression?