I am an artist with a Master of Fine Arts in Photography, specializing in fine art and conceptual photography. My work is driven by a deep desire to explore and convey the subtle complexities of emotion and memory. I seek to create images that evoke feelings—ones that resonate long after the initial viewing.
My photographic approach blends nostalgia and experimentation. I’m particularly drawn to the timeless aesthetic of Polaroid film—the muted colors, the square format, and the soft, intimate quality it brings to a photograph. I embrace imperfections, often opting for a washed-out look that enhances the emotional undercurrent of my images. The shallow depth of field and the unique qualities of analog processes are central to my work, but I also enjoy experimenting with digital techniques when the project calls for it.
The Digital Abstractions series is an exploration in the use of Photoshop as a tool to manipulate light, form, and depth in ways that push the boundaries of traditional photography. This series contrasts my usual minimalistic approach, as it fully embraces the digital medium to create highly stylized, dreamlike images.
My artistic practice extends beyond just the photographs themselves. I enjoy integrating multiple elements—such as journal entries, sound, and installation—to present my work as a cohesive body that reflects my conceptual vision. Scale plays an important role in this as well, as I like to contrast large and small prints, further challenging the viewer’s perception of the image.
My journey into photography began in high school with black and white film, where I spent countless hours in the darkroom developing my own images. This tactile, hands-on process remains an integral part of my work, even as I transitioned to digital photography during my time at MSUM. Digital photography appeals to me for its accessibility and the freedom it offers to experiment with new ideas and techniques.
I also enjoy working with alternative processes, such as cyanotypes, and even developed my own "Deconstructed Polaroids" as part of my thesis exhibition at Kansas State University. These methods allow me to push the boundaries of photographic tradition and explore new ways to engage with both the medium and the viewer.
Whether using film, digital, or alternative processes, my work is always an exploration of the fleeting nature of memory, identity, and the emotions that shape our lives. Through every project, I aim to create work that invites viewers to feel rather than just see.