Artist’s Statement

I have always been interested in art. My dad and I used to draw together when I was young. I was able to look at a subject and draw it true to life. I later learned this was called photorealism, a technique where believability depends on close observation and accurate depiction. I have taken many drawing classes over the years – pencil, charcoal, ink – and have always been “drawn” to the feel of grayscale imagery.

It was my admiration for Ansel Adams that eventually brought me to photography. His ability to capture the intimate details of nature without the use of color was remarkable. I think sometimes color can detract from the depth and meaning of an image. Black and white somehow lets a photograph speak for itself, through the use of form and texture, light and shadow. For these reasons, I like to photograph things from an untraditional perspective. Taking a photo and making a photo are two very different things. There is no new subject matter, it’s all been done before – but the number of ways to capture and present that subject is infinite. And this, to me, is where photography becomes art.

Adams said, “Some photographers take reality... and impose the domination of their own thought and spirit. Others come before reality more tenderly, and a photograph to them is an instrument of love and revelation.” I am committed to working by this philosophy. I have a sincere emotional connection with my photographs. I want those viewing my work to share my experience.

Kim Johnson
http://www.aremacgallery.com