What Lies Beyond

Reflections on my evolution.

I have always said that I love photography because words fail me. I use it as an excuse to hide behind my silence. Lately I have been looking deeply at who I am and who I want to be, as a person and as an artist. I strive for a meaningful life, to tell stories that matter, but what if the story I am most capable of telling is my own? I want to be more honest and vulnerable in my photography and so this year I’ve made it a goal to push barriers, be vulnerable and be fully who I am. These photographs represent that awakening in me and I know it is just the beginning.

The photographs attempt to show the evolution of change. It is my hope that the imagery of the fog, and rough water evoke the feelings of loneliness, longing, and contemplation. The light at the horizon creates the feeling of wonder. Is there something more beyond the darkness; longing of what is beyond? As the images progress through darkness and turmoil, the waters calm, light and color emerge and there is a pathway that guides us to the emergence, and the final image represents how I think it would feel, the freedom to be who I am. It is just the beginning.

Tethered. Alone. Empty

How do I reach what is beyond and become more than what I am?

There must be more beyond that horizon.

Past fear and doubt.

Because beyond this (or inside?) lies hope.

It's where I can soar.

The majority of these photographs were taken during the winter of 2018 on the South Island of New Zealand. The natural light and weather conditions created the surreal mood and colours. I was there as a witness capturing the scene.