I believe there is a beauty, humor, and even tragedy within us all that such simple objects can elicit.
From a very young age my first (and consistent) friends became anthropomorphic toy figures. For reasons I will share later within the photo journeys … These quiet but bold effigies had a magical imagined power to breathe life and adventure into my hermetic childhood existence. I sense that I perhaps utilize these reminiscent toys and figures of an almost forgotten time to memorialize, but also romanticize my childhood memories, mysteries, and secrets. These figures and fantasies helped better navigate the real-world uncertainties of a new school, new home – basically a new world where I was not necessarily unwelcome, but certainly not embraced, either. Rediscovering my old plastic friends has somewhat revealed a personal opportunity to face my inner dreams, challenges, demons, and peculiarities, while also cater to my creative impulses through the ease and inherent powers of smartphone photographic intelligence.
So, how can one find personal and creative relevance in the subject matter of art? So much that is so accessible? So much feels like it has already been done. And perhaps in many ways – it has. Having studied and actively explored many paths throughout the years, I am personally yearning to further delve into my personal and spiritual voice (and demons) within the nostalgic, the sadness, and the melancholic that reveals itself so pervasive within my own internal poetics and journey. Please know – there are joys and happiness as well. But the ever-present pain body tends to steal the show. And I sense there are those that will understand.
For now – I give in. I also have found that as we age perhaps we become braver in sharing our thoughts and proclaiming our truths. A lasting gift for those we leave behind – however self-serving. Both my parents are deceased and however well I felt I understood their lives – there is still much I will never know. Or fully understand. I have chosen a different path.
Nostalgia – upon reflection, was a time where anything was possible – knowing that ideas and desires were formed yet not fully understood. Personally, I consistently long to revisit that time of innocence, while fully recognizing certain ideas, ideals and possibilities may not have been fully seized or embraced. Some (many) may feel regret from unrequited love and pursuit, yet we still long for that time before – yes? Perhaps we foolishly missed that connection (or not?) – but there is certainly a value and even beauty within our imperfections – one we may have opportunities to explore and maybe … just maybe, find some needed solace. Regardless – I believe there is still lightness here in the work – even humor – that I’m confident can be shared for all. And ultimately enjoyed on personal levels consistent with my own.
Yes, I do somehow connect with these fabricated characters and genuinely feel a personal bond. But I also recognize that if we allow ourselves to get beyond the literal of what is being photographed – one too can see the life, the joy, the pain, and certainly the absurd within the frame. I believe there is a beauty, humor, and even tragedy within us all that such simple objects can elicit. Dare, I hope? Trust me – there’s nothing new here as these type characters have a longstanding presence and tradition throughout the history of visual expression. But these are mine. I kindly ask you to please – take the plunge.
