White No. 1

Publishing an image creates a certain vulnerability through the “I” of the signature. Yet, even as the image is signed one is separated from the creative act of making the image in the first place. In effect by acknowledging the “I” in the work one is saying loudly and clearly, “Here it is, my work. I make no excuses, no alibis, I take responsibility for the work you see!” But the work is no longer mine. I have relinquished control of the creative process by claiming creation of a finished work. I have done my job. Even the act of reproducing the image for a limited edition run is a mere technical act of redoing what has already been done and not creating something new. My work is in the creation, my response-ability is to the process of creation.

Existing outside of my control, the finished image waits for a response from someone other than me. That is where the vulnerability comes in. What I have created is now open for the critical response of others, some I know and many I do not know. Each observer/viewer looks at my work through a lens different that that of creation, a lens that is ground from experience and culture. I once relied on the idea that I photograph so that others could see the world through my eyes however I have come to the notion that this is an arrogant notion. I photograph what I see, create through my lens, and offer that up to viewers to see in the image what they choose.

It is a fools errand to try to attribute my intent in making this or any other image. By attempting to read into an image one cannot disengage from the bias, the predisposition to see in a certain way. Besides, even if I told you of my intent, your knowing this would not change the way you look at the image. You should no more look for my intent in making an image than I should look for your intent in viewing the image made by me.

Here it is, what I made. I like it or it would not be on these pages. I hope you like it as well.