Artist in conversation: kenneth graham
“Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul.” John Muir
Kenneth Graham's artistic journey has been a rediscovery of a lifelong passion. His fascination with photography traces its roots back to his college days when he took a photography class that left a lasting mark. Fast forward over two decades, and the allure of photography rekindled in a completely different setting – while kayaking along the serene rivers and streams of the Chesapeake Bay. Here, the stillness of early morning waters harmonized with the vibrant activity of the bay's wildlife, creating moments he couldn't resist capturing through his lens.
With each paddle along the Chesapeake Bay, Kenneth discovered that he was gifted with moments of unparalleled focus and tranquility, free from life's distractions. These moments were infused with a unique blend of goodness, serenity, and peace, and they beckoned him to preserve them and share them with the world.
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What initially inspired you to become an artist, and how did you develop your unique style?
Living on the water and the natural beauty that was right outside my door is what initially captured my eye. The world is filled with so much negativity, but when you stop and take in all that nature puts before us you realize how much #beautyintheworld surrounds us constantly. We just don’t focus on that beauty. It was then that I realized how important it is to share that beauty with others. My style is to be out in nature and to look around and take in the natural sights around me. It is to be quiet, still, and then capture what is before me.
In terms of subject matter, what themes or motifs do you frequently explore in your work, and what draws you to these topics?
My attention is naturally drawn to nature and its untouched beauty. You can, however, find an element of the human touch in my photos.
As a photographer, you mentioned that capturing moments of beauty in nature and people has become a creative outlet for you. Could you share a specific experience or photo that exemplifies this pursuit of finding beauty in unexpected places or situations?
Several years ago, I took a trip to Vietnam with my family, including my father, who was in the Vietnam War. During a hike we discovered several huts that were nestled on the side of a hill. What made these huts and scene such a beautiful experience was the storm that hovered over the mountains behind the huts. It was mystique and certainly exemplified the beauty in the world that I try to capture in my photographs.
Your belief in the abundance of beauty that needs to be captured and shared is inspiring. How do you approach the process of seeking out and capturing these moments of beauty, especially during challenging or less conventional circumstances?
I try to make time to spend in nature, even if it is a short 30-minute hike. If I cannot find the time for a short hike, I try to make myself stop and look around for something beautiful – big or small – wherever I may find myself.
Can you discuss a specific piece or project that challenged you as an artist, and how you overcome those challenges?
I tried astrophotography and most certainly find it to be a challenge. I am not sure I have overcome the challenges that come along with astrophotography, but I believe persistence is the key to overcoming challenges. Making time to take the photos over and over is important. The more time you spend doing something the better you get.
How do you stay connected with other artists and keep up with new developments and trends in the art world?
Social media is a great way to keep up with other artist and a great way to discover other artists. Reading blogs and periodicals are also a great way to keep up with new developments and trends.
How do you incorporate feedback from critics and audiences into your artistic practice, and how do you balance this feedback with your own artistic intuition?
I try to ask for feedback from other artists and when I am out taking photos, I try to incorporate their feedback into my practice. I believe it is important to have an open mind and to try and see others point of views.
How do you stay motivated and inspired despite any setbacks or creative blocks you may encounter?
Surfing through social media and looking at the works of other artists is always motivating and inspiring.
How do you feel about exhibiting your artworks with The Holy Art Gallery?
I feel very honored that my photos are being exhibited with The Holy Art Gallery. What an honor it is to have something you have created chosen to be exhibited by another artists.Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be a part of this exhibition.
Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals and aspirations as an artist, and how do you plan to achieve them?
I would like to find an art agent to represent my work and to get my photographs in front of others who love nature as much as I do. I think the best way to achieve this goal is to be a part of exciting events such as the art exhibitions held by The Holy Art Gallery.