Since 1978, my life's odyssey has intricately woven through a tapestry of experiences, cultivating a career of unparalleled richness. Originating in the realms of fashion and music, the initial three years marked my ascent as a rising professional. Yet, an insatiable yearning for more profound narratives compelled me to traverse into the captivating realm of photojournalism. Over the ensuing years, I've had the honor of freezing moments that etch themselves into history – photographing an assembly of global leaders, including three U.S. Presidents, and chronicling the dynamic landscapes of numerous Presidential races. My lens bore witness to pivotal moments like the Solidarity Movement in Poland and the historic Peace Conferences between the Zapatistas and the Mexican Government.
As my journey unfolded, the breadth of my professional canvas expanded. Esteemed clients such as BBC Television, The Broadway Series, and Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre became integral facets of my portfolio. Then, in the transformative year of 1995, I underwent yet another evolution, redirecting my energies towards the art of narrative with renewed vigor. An exemplary manifestation of this refinement materialized in my groundbreaking project, "A Mountain Dignity," a profound photographic documentary delving into the heart of Appalachian culture, a venture close to my heart. Observers have praised my work as "exquisitely truthful," particularly the images capturing the essence of the Mayan cultures in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, described as "beautiful and, at times, haunting in their revelations." My ability to unveil the very soul of my subjects is hailed as unparalleled, forging a deep and indelible connection between viewer and subject. Through my lens, stories unfold, delving beyond the surface, resonating with authenticity.
In the spring of 2008, a new chapter of my artistic voyage commenced. Having relocated to Nashville several years prior, my vision metamorphosed once again, blossoming into what critics and peers now acclaim as Fine Art Photography. Guided by the soul of a storyteller and the spirit of a documentarian, I shattered any limitations that had previously confined me. Reflecting on my journey in an interview, I elucidated how the Southern milieu had left its mark on both me and my work.
In the aftermath of this transformation, my contributions garnered recognition and accolades. Two museum commissions were bestowed upon me, while the Huntsville Museum of Art's Red Clay Survey hailed me as one of the pivotal figures in Southern Contemporary Art in 2012. Throughout my career, I've hosted 21 one-person gallery exhibitions, each showcasing the evolution of my artistic narrative.
As I continue to traverse this vibrant path, my dedication to promoting the multifaceted aspects of photography remains fervent. It is not merely a means of communication but a medium through which the very essence of fine art is expressed. In this pursuit, I assume the roles of both a prolific lecturer and a photography educator, fostering the exploration and appreciation of this remarkable medium. My journey persists, marked by an unyielding commitment to illuminate the world through the lens of my stories and the artistry of my images.
In my most recent endeavor, I embarked on a transformative five-year photographic documentary project titled "In Search of America." This ambitious undertaking represented a deeply personal journey, propelled by a singular question resonating within me: "Is this all that America is about?" Through my lens and extensive interviews, I delved into the intricate layers of American society, capturing its diverse landscapes, cultures, and narratives. This project not only encapsulated the essence of the nation but also evolved into a quest for understanding—a visual exploration seeking to uncover the myriad facets that define the essence of America.