Thursday, August 19, 2010

Everyone is a critic

The age old question burns on; What is Art?

Well, everyone has a different answer depending on many variables, including one's tastes, and points of reference and life experiences. It's subjective, as they say. The Bravo TV reality show Work of Art has exacted quite the controversy and I've found it really interesting that it's caused such a sensation. Art critics think its dribble and overly simplistic, but what they
need to remember is that it is a television show meant for mass appeal.

Time Magazine has pointed out that some of the show's viewers have appreciated a glimpse into the creative process, no matter who the cast of characters are. I am glad to hear that, because there are so many people who don't think art is work. For instance, on the graphic design side of art, yes, there is a technical aspect to it, however, the computer is merely a tool used within the creative process. Contrary to what many people think, we can't just push a button on our computers and a logo or a Cd cover or whatever, does not just magically fly out!! Creativity, design principles and psychology are just a few things that are involved.

I was especially interested in the critiques and how several "experts" perceived pieces in different ways, thereby illustrating the complex ideas and concepts behind the work.
Some of those ideas, I have to admit, would escape me if not explained and sometimes it seemed like they were just reaching. Many of those pieces I did not particularly consider to be visually appealing and I thought were a bit narcissistic. But then again, I have more of a commercial mindset. I do, however, try to stay open to ideas and there is always something to be learned.

Saturday, August 7, 2010

I'm not too much of a poser!


When it comes to shooting portrait type photos I prefer to capture more natural moments. Posing definitely has its purposes and it is quite the skill, but if I don't have to, I really like to just catch people as things happen. I'm not a wedding photographer by any means, but I try to learn from some wedding photographers. Cliff Mautner for instance has a beautiful artistic style. He believes in not approaching the shots in a formulaic fashion and keeping an open mind. Not entertaining preconceived notions of what things should look like also appeals to me. It's all about looking for and seeing the light in photography, so I try to find the light and see what happens. In this instance, I went along on a little golf outing to get just a few quick shots of a 2 year old named Annabelle. I have to say it was a lot more fun than trying to get her to pose and sit still! I took things as they came and tried to keep it simple. These might not be the most artistic shots on earth, but the light was perfect to show off her curls and her parents were happy with the outcome.