04 Aug Meet the Artist: Mark Kirby
Explain the process you go through for your work. What draws you to the
mediums you choose?
I’m blessed that I get to travel often. When I’m not working, my favorite photographic process is to simply walk around with my camera. It’s amazing how much more one sees when simply walking and looking for the sake of looking. In almost every instance, I see someone or something that intrigues me or that I think is beautiful. I love people, so meeting new friends is something I find so enjoyable. In almost every case, those same people allow me to photograph them.
What peaked your interest in art?
Several years ago, I decided I wanted to take the challenge of improving my photography. I’m not sure what led me to that decision, but it was probably that I always love new challenges. I started reading everything I could get my hands on, then practicing and practicing over again. After I’d grown comfortable with the technical aspects of photography, it freed me up to start exploring the artistic side. Once I reached that point, I just really developed a passion for the entire process
How would you describe your style of art?
I’m not exactly sure how to describe my style, but I obviously love black and white photography. While I find pleasure in photographing landscapes, people are my true passion. I love trying to capture a person’s personality or emotion in a single frame. I don’t always get it right, but trying is most of the fun.
Where do you gather most of the inspiration for your work?
My love of people. My belief that we’re all so much more alike than we are different. It inspires me to find those common traits we all share.
What’s your favorite piece of your own work?
That’s a difficult one. The answer probably changes often based on a mood or current inspiration. One of my all time favorites is Cold Camel. It was just so incredible to see that camel pushing the horses along in such brutal winter conditions!
What’s an interesting fact about you or your work?
I’ve loved going to work every single day of my life.
What famous artist do you most admire?
I love some of the older street photographers like Henri Cartier-Bressan and Vivian Maier
To learn more about Mark Kirby visit www.mkirbyphotos.com
Mark’s art will be on display at the Main Street Real Estate Gallery from July 1- September 30.
