|
STEVE EDWARDS | MAIN GALLERY ARTIST STATMENT Perception is the sensory experience of the world. It involves both recognizing environmental stimuli and actions in response to these stimuli. The Perceptual process allows you to experience the world around you and interaction with it in ways that are both appropriate and meaningful. The visual perception of colors, patterns, and structures is of particular emphasis in my work. This work is a collection of experiences dating back about 8 years. I don’t have any one particular theme in this exhibit. I enjoy photographing different scenarios or situations. My work involves different techniques to communicate and make a connection with the viewer. - Steve Edwards Photography BIOGRAPHY Born and raised in Rockford, IL, Steve Edwards is a self-taught photographer who began is photographic journey in 1980. Working with his first 35mm camera, a SLR Pentax Spotmatic he began capturing unique images of the people and objects around him. He focused his efforts on experimentation. Using various light sources, film speeds, and camera settings to create captivating images. He found himself bringing a camera wherever he went. In 1985 he started freelancing for a portrait and wedding photographer. In 1988 he purchased his first studio lighting system (Photogenic). The first photographer to inspire him was Gary Bernstein. He studied lighting and posing from his books. Steve was also inspired by local photographers Tom Johnson, Marie Kane, and Ken Ring. From 1991-1996 he owned a Portrait and Wedding studio, “ Edwards Photography” in the Rockford area. Establishing a professional image Steve joined Professional Photographers of America (PPA). From 1996 to 2007 he moved his studio into his home. Eventually, his unique style and the originality of his work was noticed by his peers, and he achieved merit awards of distinction. His showpiece, a wedding documented at the Vatican in Rome Italy, is a testament to his talents. Steve continues to hone is skills and enjoys working with people and personalities. His career took him in the direction of becoming a manufacturing plant photographer. His work included product photography, executive portraits, corporate events, aerial photography, and creating images for executive presentations, and a monthly corporate newsletter. His transition from film to digital began in 2000-2001. It came at a perfect time. His employer enrolled him in Photoshop courses. It was a great and exciting time in image making and it still is. Steve’s work has been published in calendars, cookbooks, and newspapers. He has also shown his work in the Rockford Art Scene and has been represented by 317 Gallery in Rockford. His corporate collections include, Mercy Health Rockford, Supply Core Rockford, Mondelez International Rockford, and Urban Equities of Rockford. Through photography, he has learned to cherish, appreciate and see the beauty of the moment. Steve's practice of photography principles has strengthened and heightened both his visual and intuitive senses. This allows him to better connect with the world around him. A First Friday Reception will be held on October 1, from 5 - 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public. The Beloit Art Center is located at 520 E. Grand Avenue, Beloit, Wisconsin. Hours are Monday 10am - 2pm; Tuesday - Friday 10am - 5pm and Saturday from 10am - 2pm. For further information please visit www.beloitartcenter.com CRESWELL D'SYLVA | BELL GALLERY
ARTIST STATEMENT My artwork is influenced by my various experiences of travel and study in Australia, Europe, Scandinavia, and a few Asian countries. I also lived for more than 10 years in the following countries: India, Australia, Mexico, and the USA. After my schooling in Madras, India, I studied for my Associates in engineering before immigrating to Australia in 1971. My studies architectural drawing at engineering college has given me skills to draw precise geometric forms which I use in my paintings. In Australia, I studied art at the East Sydney Technical College in Darlinghurst, New South Wales. While in Sydney, I began to express myself in various art forms like ceramics, painting and photography. I am very influenced by abstract artists like: Bridget Riley, British Op-Artist, who explored optical illusions in art. Yaacob Agam, Optical & Kinetic artist from Israel. Frank Stella, Victor Vasasely, Hungarian - French. Architects like Zaha Hadid, Iraqi British architect who designed some of the most modern buildings like the Guangzhour Municipal Government Opera House, the Abu Dhabi Performing Arts Center, Manchester Music Hall etc. Some other architects who I admire are Santiago Calatrava, Spanish architect, sculptor, and artist who also designed the Milwaukee Art Museum, World Trade Center, NY , The Dubai Creek Tour etc. The Danish architect Jorn Utzon who designed the Sydney Opera House in Bonnelong Point, Sydney. I took time off of work to visit Europe and travelled approximately 36,000 KMS in Scandinavia, Europe, and N. Africa, staying mainly at campsites and youth hostels. I visited the important art galleries and museums and learned about their culture. I also spent 10 months in Copenhagen studying the Danish language and culture at the University of Copenhagen. My first international solo art exhibition was at the Galerie Gammel Strand, in Copenhagen in 1984. I did participate in several group exhibitions in Copenhagen, Denmark , Sydney, Australia and more recently, juried regional exhibitions in Freeport and Rockford Illinois, Beloit and Whitewater art galleries in Wisconsin. While living in Mexico for 14 years, I was most impressed with the Oaxaca culture in the state of Oaxaca. Their traditional colorful costumes inspired me. I have borrowed the use of their color combinations from their costumes in my paintings. My paintings portray an eclectic mix of balanced shapes and vibrant colors , all are my original creations and are presented for your visual enjoyment. Comments are closed.
|
