About My Still Life Photography
As a still-life photographer, I find immense joy and fulfillment in capturing the silent stories of inanimate objects.
The process feels akin to creating scenes on a theatrical stage, drawing from my background as a professional theatrical stage designer and decorator. I approach each composition by envisioning the objects as dynamic characters, each playing a role in a captivating narrative. Through the interplay of light, particularly natural light from windows, I strive to infuse my compositions with an inviting, dramatic and artistic ambiance.
My inspiration stems from the everyday elements that surround me, such as fruits and flowers from my garden, seashells, pottery, and unique vintage items discovered in various places. The beauty of nature and my passion for gardening continually fuel my creativity, offering a wellspring of ideas for my work.
Throughout history, artists have been captivated by the still life genre, each endeavoring to capture its essence through various stylistic approaches. Whether it's the intricate realism of the Dutch and Baroque masters or the lively brushstrokes of Impressionism, the timeless appeal of still life continues to fascinate and inspire me.
In my works, I strive to weave together storytelling and visual delight while also imbuing them with hidden symbolism and philosophical depth. Classic still-life paintings are a wellspring of inspiration for me, as they reveal hidden messages and deeper meanings. Studying the early masterpieces of classic artists fuels my artistic influence. The symbolism in classic paintings serves as a poignant reminder of our mortality and the fleeting nature of existence, often referred to as "Memento Mori.
I love photographing flowers! Just like people, flowers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, each with its own unique beauty. They thrive when nurtured and cared for, going from tiny seedlings to stunning blossoms. There are important lessons we can learn from flowers as they go through their life cycle:
- Embrace Vibrancy – Embrace Uniqueness: Like flowers, we should celebrate our individuality and appreciate the diversity around us.
- Absorb the Warmth of the Sun: Just as flowers need sunlight to grow, we should seek out positivity and absorb the warmth of encouragement and support from others.
- Establish Your Roots: Strong roots are crucial for a flower's growth, and similarly, we should build a solid foundation for ourselves to thrive.
- Embrace Vulnerability: Flowers open themselves to the world, showing their beauty and fragility. Similarly, we should embrace vulnerability as a means of genuine connection and growth.
- Cultivate New Beginnings: Just as flowers bloom anew each season, we should welcome change and see it as an opportunity for growth and development.
- Appreciate Life's Challenges: Like the nourishment that challenges provide for flowers, we should appreciate the lessons and strength we gain from overcoming obstacles in life.
Capturing flowers is a deeply fulfilling and therapeutic experience for me. The overwhelming beauty of flowers inspires me to capture their delicate and vibrant nature. Through my art, I aim to share this beauty and bring joy to others, forging connections through the power of nature's creations.