MARILYN CANNING PHOTOGRAPHY

Art Statement

Among my inspirations is the work of pictorial photographers who embraced an expressive interpretation of the subject matter by utilizing mono-chromatic and soft-focused aesthetics rather than a truthful rendition of the subject. I am inspired by eerie, mysterious, beautifully crafted images that draw viewers in, be they landscapes, portraits or still lives. I am drawn to work that is not entirely representative of the real world; work that is ephemeral and contains a strong emotional context.  I view photography as an interpretive medium, meaning that it is not necessarily about where the lens is pointed but about what the photographer sees.

My intent is to convey a subjective interpretation of the subject by creating compelling images that stimulate viewers’ imaginations; images that are dark, ambiguous and lacking in detail.

I have never had an affinity for color photography, preferring the realm of black and white images which, in my mind,  conveys a stronger emotional context. I often diffuse, distress and tone my work.

I began my journey in the photographic arena in the traditional darkroom.  When this avenue was no longer an option due to the lack of available darkrooms and dwindling materials, I embraced the digital realm.  But given my preference for the look and feel of silver gelatin, I have incorporated some of the visual hallmarks of film based imagery in my digital work.