Basic Photography: Assignment I
Artist Statement
The content of these photos reflects my interest in capturing cultural landscapes in the African-American communities. Illustrated in majority of the photos is one of the most prominent genres of artwork produced by several different artist in Harlem, New York called graffiti. Originated from the Italian word “graffio” or “a scratch,” graffiti is a technique that involves writing or drawings scribbled, scratched, or sprayed illicitly on a wall or other surface in public places. This outlet of artwork articulates a sense of being a rebellion of creativity, rejecting the traditional procedure of conducting artwork. This method of artwork is internationally known as one of the most distinguished outlets of production, ranging from New York, California, South Florida, Chicago, and even overseas in Europe.
In taking these photos, I particularly focused on composition and balance within the image. I attended to use monochromatic tones to showcase the cultural aspect of New York in its most simplest form, in black and white. I strived to capture each photo in a linear perspective to create a perception of depth. Linear perspective generates from the positioning of objects that are determined by drawn or imagined lines converging at a point on the horizon. By using multiple techniques, such as; camera positioning and angling, lighting, and lens adjustments, enabled me to explored my theme to produce visual variety.
