The Masters

When I was a student, I loved the psychological side to imagery... 'discourse and representation' as it was called; which may sound a little OTT and unnecessary (!) but in my opinion its plays a fundamental role in creating a stimulating and invigorating piece of work.  

I strongly believe that every image I personally create (even those which I feel haven't involved as much thought as others) are based on my subconscious experience and perspective of how I see the world. We dream what we dream for a reason; perhaps during the creative thought process we experience something quite similar.

During the last year of my studies I chose to focus on Renaissance Art. During this project I basically spent all of my spare time visiting art galleries, reading books, browsing the internet...you name it I was determined to make it stimulating both on the surface level and when digging a little deeper. 

There were a few techniques that particularly appealed to me; techniques that undoubtedly stuck in my mind, more than likely influencing my recent projects without too much conscious thought. I'm now approaching the subject of Renaissance/ Baroque art in an editorial soon to come which made me realise the positive impact that my graduate project had on me. One technique in particular continues to interest me; never failing to catch my eye when successfully implemented....

Chiaroscuro

Chiaroscuro is a technique first adapted in art. The term relates to the relationship between light and shadow, often evoking a strong sense of atmosphere and drama based on such visible contrast within the frame.

Baroque artist Caravaggio is known for his contributions to this technique, most famously breaking a hole in one side of the ceiling in his dark studio to encourage a natural stream of sunlight to catch one side of his subject.

My recent interpretations of Chiaroscuro are shown below, taken from my shoot 'The Opium Den' for Ben Trovato earlier this year.  This shoot was also inspired by Oscar Wilde's Dorian Grey; a book focusing on vanity and a more sinister side to beauty.

 

 

My suggestions to all you creatives out there? Delve into the abyss of history... so much beauty that we may not even comprehend originates in the work of the great masters. Although I hate to admit it, nothing is original in this world- but in my opinion, there is nothing quite like the beauty of history; especially the combination of fashion and history combined.

'All art is at once surface and symbol. Those who go beneath the surface do so at their own peril. Those who read the symbol do so at their own peril' - Dorian Grey