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I
became interested in photography at age nine when my favorite uncle
gave me some darkroom equipment (a film developing tank, a contact
printing frame, a few trays, and chemicals). The results of my first
efforts in my bathroom/darkroom impressed me as pure magic. My
little contact prints curled severely as they dried—I did not know
how to flatten them—but in spite of this problem, I knew that
photography would always hold a central place in my life.
After
working as a professional photojournalist for a number of years, I
decided to realize some of the dreams I had held for a long time.
Working through the London bureau of the Associated Press, I took an
extended trip through several West African countries in late 1978.
This experience radically changed me, broadened my outlook on the
world, and significantly contributed to my growth as a photographer.
The work was difficult and challenged me in new ways. Not only was
this my first experience photographing in a foreign country, it was
the first time I traveled overseas! I had to navigate my way through
unfamiliar geography, cultures, and languages. Since then, I have
had the good fortune to photograph in many countries in Europe, the
former Soviet Union, Asia, Central America, the Middle East, and the
Caribbean.
My
photography reflects my endless fascination with how people live and
what they do. I try to capture the details, moments, and scenes
that, for me, convey the essential qualities of everyday life. The
images I record are the notes I make in response to my observations.
I often do not ponder long on making a composition. I am drawn to
the fleeting moment—I rely on my intuitive sense of balance and
insight. I always try to portray the dignity of my subjects as well
as my interest in them. There are common threads that run through
all cultures—and there are differences that are illuminating.
I
began experimenting with digital imaging more than ten years ago. By
printing on watercolor papers with pigmented inks I have created a
new look for my images. This, in turn, stimulated my interest in
other means of rendering my photographic images. I am currently
exploring, with great excitement, the polymer plate process, which
brings together traditional printmaking, digital imaging, and
photography. My studio is now a lively technological clashing of the
centuries. Two walls are lined with computers, scanners, and
printers. Along a third wall stand an etching press, inking station,
and a host of accessories for the printmaking process.
I
have dedicated my life work to photography; it is the means by which
I communicate my observations and thoughts. Whether the process is
traditional, digital, or via printmaking, I will continue to make
images in order to convey these perceptions.
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