Thinking about objects in still life photography, it has a long pedigree dating back to 2007. Before then, I had a strong interest in painting and drawing from my days at art school in the early ’90s and as an MA student in the histories of art and design from 2005 to 2007. This background in visual arts laid the foundation for my explorations in photography. The transition from traditional art forms to the digital medium opened up numerous possibilities that enhanced my creative expression. This journey has always been about pushing boundaries and redefining my artistic vision.
About My Artistic Journey
In July 2007, I found myself as an inpatient in a hospital. Dissuaded from taking photos of people, I used my phone to take pictures of the environment of the hospital, both inside and out, of things on the ward and as a means of copying my drawings. This experience was transformative; I began to see the ordinary non-living world around me in a new light. The sterile environment of the hospital became a backdrop for my creativity where mundane items transformed into subjects worthy of examination and artistic interpretation.
I bought a basic bridge camera in 2008 and began some more adventurous projects in my spare room. Having gained the basic knowledge of photography in my teens, my interest and experience evolved in my late thirties and I began to experiment with natural and flash lighting. This experimentation was crucial; I learned how different types of lighting could dramatically alter the mood and perception of my images. I started incorporating elements such as shadows, highlights, and textures to create depth, inviting viewers to engage with the pieces on a more profound level.
My style has come to encompass juxtaposition of props, use of metaphor and parody and a modern twist on the old painterly technique of ‘trompe l’oeil’ (trick of the eye). This technique allows me to challenge viewers’ perceptions, blurring the lines between reality and illusion. Although the content and focus has changed over the years, the mission to raise the status and dynamic meaning of everyday things remains the same. Each photograph tells a story, inviting the audience to reflect on their own relationships with the things depicted. I hope you enjoy what this website has to offer you, as each piece is crafted with intention and a love for the art form.
In addition to my photography, I engage in discussions about the intersection of art and technology. With the rise of digital media, artists have unpresedented opportunities to explore their creativity. I believe that understanding these dynamics is essential for anyone interested in contemporary art.
As technology evolves, I constantly seek to adapt my techniques to incorporate new tools and methods. For instance, utilizing software for image editing has allowed me to enhance my photographs in ways that traditional methods couldn’t achieve. This integration of technology not only improves my artistic output but also helps in reaching a broader audience.
Furthermore, I am an advocate for using art as a vehicle for social commentary. Art has the power to provoke thought and inspire change, and I strive to create works that resonate with current societal issues. By doing so, I hope to engage my audience in meaningful conversations.
I encourage anyone who is interested in photography or art to explore their own creative paths. The journey of self-expression is unique to each individual, and the exploration of different mediums can lead to incredible discoveries about oneself.
Among my influences are Irving Penn (irvingpenn.com), Thomas Demand (thomasdemand.de) and Anne Hardy (anne-hardy.co.uk).
Finally, thank you for visiting this website. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my passion with you, and I look forward to continuing to grow as an artist. Remember, art is not just about what you see; it’s about how it makes you feel. I hope my work evokes thought, emotion, and inspiration within you. To jump straight in, visit our gallery of best photographs here.
Bio
Brian Gornall, born 1970, is a pursuant of the field of History of Art and Design. He earned a BA (Hons) in History of Art and Design with Art for Society from the University of Wolverhampton, achieving a grade of 2:1. Following this, he pursued further studies, culminating in an MA in Histories of Art and Design from Birmingham City University, which he completed with commendation. Brian’s experience nourishes his still life practice. His academic journey reflects a commitment to understanding the interplay between art and society, enriching the cultural discourse in the field.
