“Outside In” Series
In this series, I finally decided to focus on my sexuality as a gay man. I grew up in the blue collar suburbs in the 70’s and 80’s when there was no mention of gay, just derogatory jokes. Being gay was considered “wrong” and “abnormal .” These messages became internalized, leading to feelings of shame about who I truly was. In school, for fear of being bullied, teased, or rejected I blended in so that I didn’t stand out. Internalized homophobia leads to self-loathing, low self esteem, and lack of self-worth. I found myself being ashamed when I was praised for doing something good or for being brought to the forefront, when I would rather be unrecognized and in the background. Society has changed, but it still isn’t easy to be gay. Throughout all of my work you will see elements of camouflage and concealment that reflect my internalized homophobia. In this series, I have created self-portraits, landscapes, and interiors that portray these inner struggles and obstacles.
All of my work has always had surreal elements through the use of odd and unexpected imagery, mimicry, juxtaposition, camouflage, and transformation. The surrealist created their art to get people to look at life in new and unique ways.
This series is comprised of constructed photographs that are composites made by using multiple images created using my imagination and digital imaging tools. The images are performative in that they are photographs of constructions and set ups, both inside as well as outside along with street scenes. Exploring my conceptual and subjective, or inner space, these private tableau explore the intrusion of the outside into the inside. I have always loved working in photography for its veracity by creating work that looks real and ‘normal’ but that is odd and quirky. I am interested in nature, surrealism, self-examination, and classic street photography.
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