DARK COAST - A NEW PORTFOLIO

JANUARY 2019

WHERE THE LIGHT ENTERS YOU | DARK COAST PORTFOLIO

Creating compelling images requires the photographer to have a deep feeling-based connection to the subject matter and to the photographic process, if they hope to create evocative images that have their own life and spirit. It is the nature of making art with the camera versus simply capturing moments in time.

The photographic path is a very personal one. It certainly is not an easy one. There has been no work more challenging for me to produce than this series. Not because of location or weather or any other external encounters - those are always present. But this time because of internal struggles, emotional pain and suffering.

The two year period to produce this work was the most difficult period of my life, due to the sudden and tragic loss of a close loved one. Navigating heavy feelings of grief and sadness was uncharted territory for me. In many ways, I retreated and withdrew. But even in this darkest period, my passion and desire to get out into the world and photograph beauty and wonder and to share my discoveries, held strong.

Working with the camera and making photographs, I have learned more deeply about myself and my place in this world. Making these images specifically, helped me in some way work through the bereavement and deep grief. You might sense that. You might also sense that the darkest period has passed, and there is a hope and optimism. Although the pain will always be present, time somehow alters the potency of it.

My sister Melissa had dreams of someday finding an audience to share her words with. She was a great writer and had a way with words like I have with images. It is only fitting that I pair our works together here in this portfolio.