Artist Statement
I’m fascinated by abstract imagery that evokes feelings. I enjoy finding something different each time I view my work. I see my photos as transforming objects into a fantasy world that invites interpretation.
My newest project involves combining photos into double exposures. For me, it’s a unique, creative, and fun way to join two different subjects into an exciting new image, giving the viewer an opportunity to see the world in a new, and perhaps limitless way.
Contemporary Modern Art heavily influences my work. I’m constantly going to museums to experience and be inspired by new artwork. New techniques and strong concepts make a powerful impression on me as I create my own work. I’m always searching for subject matter and ideas that will inspire me to create new photo projects.
Bio
I grew up in Winston-Salem NC, and as a boy I was passionate about photography. My first pictures were taken with a Big Swinger Polaroid camera when I was 12 years old. I've been taking pictures for 50 years, and although the technology has changed, my passion for photography is stronger than ever.
I earned my degree from Western Carolina University (WCU) in Graphic Design. While at WCU, I took pictures for the school newspaper, and explored the area with my girlfriend, who is now my wife. We went on many hikes through the Great Smoky Mountains where I photographed the changing seasons and waterfalls, focusing on textures, patterns, and the ever changing color of the leaves. My cameras have changed over the years, and the technology is quite different, but my love of creating abstract work remains. I'm forever in search of lighting that creates warm and dimensional photographs.
My work experience as a color specialist led me to a career of over 38 years in printing where I specialized in image quality, tonal reproduction, and color fidelity. Part of my career I focused on sports and gaming cards, where I gained serious credibilty with my 8 year old grandson due to my time as a Pokémon card quality control specialist.
My work can been seen at local libraries, and my youngest daughter Annalyce Grogan and I recently were featured as a father/daughter photography show at Skylight Gallery in Hillsborough, NC. This included Annalyce Grogan's pieces titled "Quiet Moments", and my recent series, "Smoke Sculptures." Sharing a love of photography with my youngest daughter is an ongoing pleasure. I enjoy photographing people, landscapes, and the unexpected.