about

This project ties together numerous models with a simple, easily recognized garment. My original intent was simply to explore the beauty of the garment while on different body types and to share this exploration which touches emotional threads common to us all.

But The Shawl has become an ongoing exploration. Each model brings new inspirations, themes, and stories.

As the model settings progress, I see several universal themes and emotions emerging. For example, several images evoke religious overtones while other images reveal bodyscapes that demonstrate strength of character. At times just the act of placing the shawl on the model shapes the spirit of the moment. Flooding the models in light and shadow inspires feelings that might not have been there an instant before.

My artwork in this exhibit is rooted in both traditional studio settings and classical darkroom techniques. I use a medium-format Hasselblad camera with black and white negative film. Each image is handcrafted in the darkroom using unique toning procedures that I have developed, including split-toning and multi-toning for archival stability.