It has been 15 years since I landed on these fair shores of America, for initially a year or two and turned out to be 15 and counting! In that period of time, I have spent much time acclimating and exploring this ‘new ‘country - living, working, travelling and overall experiencing all I could possibly do and see to understand my new adopted homeland.
On first glance America is THE DREAM, a ray of light and hope for those looking for a better life and advancement of life for themselves and their families, a chance for success maybe fame and maybe some fortune along with it!
Whilst this notion penned by James Truslow Adams in 1931 rang true in the 20th century, one finds the America in the 21st century is facing a much different reality whether one accepts to pull back the curtains or not. This body of work is a pause and moment of reflection of the story so far in this photographer’s personal journey in America.
The body of work is broken down into three sections that help process the journey and the vision of this great country that has been experienced and traveled through. It felt right to use lyrics from The Star-Spangled Banner to title each section and offer a glimpse into what one see’s -
- Hailed at the twilight - is a collection of photographs that explores the American experience that is a slice popular culture, warm hearted and often traditional; a rose-tinted view or perhaps that feeling as the sunsets or a wonderful day
- Dawns early light - is a collection of photographs that explores the American experience in the harsh light of day, we have heard a lot about the lifestyle of the rich and famous, THE 1%, but how about average Joe, THE 99%, that keep this country running, how have they evolved and what has happened in their worlds since the onset of the 21st century
- Broad stripes and bright stars - is a collection of photographs that explores the American experience of what the country has become, the scars and experiences that persist and the country struggles to resolve or move on from. What does it mean to be American? And arguably more importantly what does it cost to be American?