BP6: The Brunettes

When I think back to my group art project, I smile and laugh. It was an enjoyable experience and a great opportunity for me to get to know my group partners and new friends—Rachel and Juliana. I would say that we all have similar style and taste and as a result there was little conflict when making decisions as a group. After discussing a few ideas, we decided to make a stop-motion video in the form of a commercial. Juliana and Rachel are both studying Communications and I have a digital camera and take pictures. After we decided our roles in the process, we decided on our overall concept.

We wanted to highlight the idea that none of us were originally from California. We spoke about our mutual experience of giving up somewhat of our backgrounds to adapt to the culture here in L.A. A big adaptation to this environment is through trend, especially through outerwear. We decided to focus on one of the biggest trends of our generation that has exploded from its iconicity – Ray Ban wayfarer sunglasses. I do not know much of the history except for their presence in cinema and fashion. However the past cannot merely compare to the variations that are available now. Needless to say, we had easy access to our prop.

A day designated to taking photographs throughout the city was the “fun part” because when we finally had the images uploaded, we discovered our mutual lack of computer skills. It was definitely a new experience for the whole group and our unique process is apparent in the completed work. I think we were able to create a culture for Los Angeles, which never seems quite apparent. When planning the project, we wanted to make sure to incorporate people wearing the same sunglasses, and they were not hard to find. All in all, L.A. is connected through trend and welcomes anyone willing to embrace it.

Love This

I am always finding inspiration and ideas from other artists. I really enjoy seeing the work of others and understanding their ideas/motives. I am always genuinely excited and interested in people that are passionate about what they do. I discovered the photography of Mark Borthwick the other day and felt that the aesthetic I try to achieve in my own work really corresponded to many of the things he has already done. It is sharp and simple, which is what I enjoy the most.

BP5: Artist Statement

Cracks in the sidewalk, vintage black and white photographs, distressed floral patterned wallpaper. I am greatly inspired by elements of daily life that are generally overlooked. I attempt to find beauty in ordinary places like crystals inside of a geode. I have an innate desire to hunt for what is hidden, and discover beauty in what is considered dull. My photographs are the evidence of my daily discoveries. However, there is a harsh tone to my work that cannot be ignored. In order to see the inside of the rock, it must be shattered open. My work can appear sharp, especially when utilizing the camera as a tool of investigation. I meticulously seek the mysteries that dwell inside the designs created by nature and culture. I define design as the physical placement of figures within a setting. As a photographer, I take advantage of this ambiguity and focus on what I feel is conceptually valid as well as visually appealing. I find a balance between introducing the mystery and revealing a message. I strive to establish a connection with the viewer to inspire a greater interest in cultures beyond our own. Elements of design that exist in terms of decoration, fashion and even nature, can be highly representational. I exhibit my anthropological studies and establish representations through my photographs to highlight beauty formed by simplicity.