Inspiration

In discussions previously, I briefly touched upon my childhood. I was a free-spirited, strong-willed individual who disliked the idea of being continually restricted in my thought process, constantly asking questions and wanting to know why? I could not embrace the concept of “black and white” because there was always a grey space in between. Throughout my personal and professional development as an artist, I have come to recognise that I am a non-conformist similar to the people that inspire me. Ann Brigman and Patti Smith are two artists that have significantly influenced me in terms of where I want to go with my own artistic practice and life journey. They were out there on their own, breaking down the barriers and expectations of audiences and critics. Both of these women were uniquely different in their own right at the time.

Ann Brigman

Brigman’s work encompasses her love of self-expression through silhouettes and sceneries. Her self-confidence evolved over time, from flowiness and fluidity to the naked form. She was very clever with her use of shadowing in creating depth within her photographs, only incorporating specific features and giving them a unique modern twist. This is evident in her image, namely the storm below.

Brigman’s talents were complemented by her ability to write poems that corresponded to the photographs she created. This would not always be at the same time and in rhyme, but would describe in fine detail the surrounding environment and sounds; the writings would elegantly complement the visual.

Patti Smith

Patti Smith is a modern-day artist and musician. As a lyrical artist, her words are poetic and can capture any audience. When taking photographs she stated:

“I don’t consider myself a photographer,” she said. “I take lots of photographs; it’s a part of my life. But I think of myself as an amateur. There’s nothing wrong with being an amateur. I take them with all the photography knowledge I have and with a certain aesthetic, but I wouldn’t compare myself to people who devote their whole life principally to photography.” (Sayej, 2016)

Smith’s photography, unlike Brigman’s, has a simple yet symbolic feel to it. Viewing her photographs is like being invited on a voyage of lyrical discovery. Smith appears to have been less concerned with her technical ability and more concerned with documenting the adventures on the road. It aids the viewer in understanding the emotions she was experiencing at the time, especially the ups and downs of being on “the open road.” This is visible in the image below.

Both Smith and Brigman find a way of drawing you into their worlds, leaving you wondering how their lives had evolved. Like every struggling artist in their time, funds were limited and they used the equipment available to them. Both would use the medium of analogue, Brigman capturing her images in black and white whereas Smith had the option of using colour.

My love of the black and white medium allows a narrative to be told. I feel I am on a journey like Smith and Brigman. To be able to get to where I want to get to I need to document my journey so far by the way of documentary photography to allow everything to flow properly. It does sadden me for the moment however, all good things come to those who wait.