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CHIAROSCURO (Italian for clear-dark)
A term in art for a contrast between light and dark, The term is usually applied to bold contrasts affecting a whole composition.
I have always been fascinated with the 'black and white' in black and white photography. This body of work is a result of that fascination. Influenced by the cinematic Film Noir period of the 40's and 50's and by the work of photographer Bill Brandt, I have compiled these images that emphasize drama and mystery. It is much more about style than subject matter as the goal is always a final print of high contrast, featuring deep, rich blacks and brilliant whites. All my work has been initially photographed on film and a portion of it contains a moderate amount of film grain. I use high speed film and high contrast paper to achieve the effects I want and these techniques also increase grain size. Many people prefer photographs to be as realistic as possible with no grain evident, but for me it is an enhancement to the impressionistic feel that I like to create.
Digital prints with a fine lustre finish are available in 11X14 (8X10 image) for $75. Please feel free to contact me if you are interested in custom sizes. These prints have been scanned from the original silver gelatin prints which sell in galleries for minimum $700. There has been no computer manipulation.
Fiber based silver gelatin prints, hand crafted in a darkroom are available in 8X10, limited edition of 15 ($700) and 11X14, limited edition of 10 ($900). Signed and numbered au verso.
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