Artist's Statement

Artist's Statement

I love wild places. They penetrate my soul and uplift my spirit like nothing else on earth. I return to them year-in and year-out for renewal like a migrating bird driven by instinct. The farther I venture into them, the deeper I fall in love with them.

Although "wild" by nature, these places give me comfort. They calm the beast in me. And quell the chaos of modern living. They are where I feel most at peace with myself. What laws of nature frame such an enigmatic contradiction? I do not know. It is one of those unsolved mysteries of life that photographers like myself are left in solitude to ponder on film. A mystery for which I have no desire to find an answer, but merely delight in exploring.

To me, wild places are a sanctuary for people, not just a refuge for wildlife. It is my unconditional love for them that brackets the goals of my photography. They are as follows:

Stir the body, mind and soul of the viewer.
Move people to save wild places through greater appreciation of them.
Convey an altruistic message that has broad viewer appeal.
Focus on a subject to which everybody can relate.
Create excellent art that captures the imagination.
Travel to specific locales that are inspiring.
Preserve wild places threatened by development and human encroachment.
Generate funds that will enable me to continue my life's work:

For the conservation of wild places and their preservation through donated funds earned by my photography.
As a full-time occupation, thus ensuring my own survival.
Through higher education, workshops and the teaching of fine art photography.
As a unique investment designed to increase both the appreciation of wild places and the value of my work as fine art.
Through philanthropic contributors who share my concerns.
Through exhibition in museums, educational institutions, environmental groups and other public venues, as well as private and corporate collections.
For the benefit of people and organizations advocating wild places.