Our newest Artist is a self-portrait artist from Virginia whose work is textured, layered and deeply emotional. And she's just 16! I look forward to watching her evolve as an artist for years to come!! Please view Rose's links to view more of her stunning work. Website 1) How long have you been in business and how did you get your start in photography? I've always been quite taken with most forms of art since at a very young age, but when I discovered photography and how it worked I was astonished! Each form of art has its special place in my heart and since becoming a photographer I have realized the impact and importance we artists have in this world, it fascinated me in ways far too remarkable for words to express. I held my very first camera on my eighth birthday, my parents saw my interest and purchased a small point and shoot so I could begin to learn the aspects and art of photography. It quickly became an obsession for me as I carried the tiny thing alongside me wherever I would go. Since that day, eight years ago, it has been a journey of continual learning, tears and triumphs, but I wouldn't change a thing, my passion has grown so deep I would have to say it's now a part of who I am. 2) Which photographers influenced you, and how did they influence your thinking, photographing, and career path? First, I would have to say how saddening our photography community can be at times. The competition and multiple controversy's it produces, it hurts me deeply and sometimes often makes me question if I should remain and proceed in my journey to encourage and spread kindness, but in the midst of the competitiveness there are still lights that shine brightly among us. Seeing these lights keep me on track, keep me inspired and are always pushing me to work hard for what I hope to achieve. Because they, themselves, work hard to be where they are and that gives me the strength and determination to do what I love. Sue Bryce plays a big part in my journey as a photographer, her honesty and kindness are very admirable and as for her work, it is has been the foundation that has inspired many of my portraits. The gentle and graceful aura that her images possess mesmerize me. Her willingness to teach and support those around her is high on the scale as well, and I hope to have an encounter with her one day! Sharon Covert, she brings an immense amount of inspiration to me with each photograph she shares. Her self portraits especially. They evoke such strong emotions, carry deep feelings and on top of that, a dash of mystery. They are very powerful indeed. She is as remarkable as her work, if not more. She's such a kindhearted person and is always looking out for you. One of those bright lights who never cease to shine and magnify the good. Jasmin of Sugar and Lace Studio, such a sweet and passionate soul. For all those women who deem themselves unappealing or unpleasant, she makes those women realize their strength, beauty and revitalizes their confidence, making it come alive again. It's such a beautiful thing to watch and the way her work portrays those things is just amazing. Such compassion and empowerment is not often found in our world today. 3) What is the one thing you wish you knew when you started taking photos? I have had to lecture myself on how it's okay to create art you are proud of and not what every other person expects of your work. We are all distinctly different individuals, never the same minds nor bodies. Each of us have our own unique vision, while some might not understand the way you perceive things, that's okay. We aren't meant to be identical devices like that of a robot, programmed and predictable. Don't be afraid to own your art, you can't please everyone, but that's OKAY! That shouldn't be your motivation otherwise you will be very unhappy with your art. 4) What does photography mean to you? The very thought of it is meaningful. Freezing time frame by frame and yet time continues to advance? Thinking of that is almost impossible to comprehend, but at the same time it's equally beautiful. We can take everyday life for granted, photography has allowed me to slow down and properly examine how beautiful our lives are and that whatever we may be doing has an impact on the world in some way. That's an important thing to remember. To me photography means to count everything as precious, and that in this time we've been given, use it well to improve the lives of others. It is more than just an art, it's a way of life that. An artist has an extremely vital role in this world. We are there to point out the beauty that many can't see, can't hold onto and can't seem to reach, we enable them to reach it, see it and hold it. 5) What is the best part about being a photographer? If I can inspire or encourage a single person out of the billions on this earth, that to me fulfills the purpose of my art and is worth more to me than any treasure in this world! And to think I can continue to try and do that over and over? Makes me more passionate about what I do and motivates me to become a better artist. With each passing moment, if I could possibly inspire someone to take a leap of faith, become more confident or have more courage, that would make me so proud to say that I'm a photographer. 6) If you could shoot with any photographer in the world, who would it be and why? Twyla Jones, her images bleed passion, innocence, emotion and security. It's phenomenal. If you see her work, you'll understand what I mean. She really knows how to capture the beauty of life in such a simple and unique way. Not only that, she is one of the sweetest and supportive person ever. I hope one day to have her be my mentor, I already learn so much just setting my eyes on her work and I can't imagine the valuable things she could teach me. 7) What is your favorite image you have taken to date? This is one of those images I am very proud of, but at the same time am not sure why. There's a certain beauty here, like a longing for something. Weakness but strength. Pain but happiness. The mood gives off a peaceful aura but also a lonely sort of feeling. It gives me mixed feelings which is why I love it so. 8) How do you feel about breaking the perceived rules of photography?
I feel like life itself explains this question entirely. I have always enjoyed being the observer, I see how a person would react to situations or how one would deal with their struggles, each one different and unique, we all hold the same emotions but use them so differently.. The word Imperfection to me is strength, happiness, pain and love all rolled into one. Life is imperfectly perfect and I want to capture that in my images, but to do so I must break "the rules" and point out the imperfect beauty that life carries. I desire my viewers to feel something true, emotional, honest and real and so I put a piece of my flawed and wounded heart in each one hoping to convey my inner feelings and thoughts.
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