February 24, 2018

Welcome Michelle Mondragon, Winner of the photo-artistry UdA Awards


Member since 2018




The 9 others Winners to come







 Her camera ?




"I prefer the term creator to artist.

"Artist" always seemed a bit lofty, something one must attain, rather than be. Everyone is a creative in some way or another, and as a teacher I strive to encourage others to follow their instincts and their vision to form their own path. I once asked a mentor if there was a difference between having an imagination or a vision. She told me there was no difference.

I wondered why people with visions are considered a bit crazy, while we compliment others on their imagination. I have visions all the time. I always have. 

I am just now learning how to take what I see and make it real. It’s a slow process, but a worthwhile journey. Technology has been another mentor, allowing me to explore my visions in a way I never thought possible."









The winning composition of the photo-artistry UdA Awards









After I received her beautiful photographs and photo-compositions :

My dear Michelle, you impress me. I love the figurative series where you excel. Of course, I've some questions. How did you find your style ? Do you consider yourself more a painter than a photographer ? What inspire you ? Friendly. Chris


Chris, I am very flattered by your kind words. My style is a bit eclectic in that sometimes I lean towards painterly other times more photo realistic. The subject decides for me which way to go.

I’d like to be someday a mixed media (organic materials mixed with photography) painter but have much to learn. The textures I use in all my work I do paint with real paint, watercolor, acrylic, and inks mostly, then I scan them in and combine with my photography.






"Caged"

















The still lives were all shot using a small flash light and literally painting with the light on the subject. This took long exposures which resulted in more noise in the images.

So by combining painted textures and digital techniques I attempted to hide the fact that my camera is not so good in low light situations. I just experimented with different recipes until it looked intentional.

I’m inspired by nearly everything around me. Other artists often inspire me. I teach in the photography department at the local community college and an art school where my students inspire me.

Thank you for asking those questions. Sometimes I need a reminder to just pause and reflect about why I spend so much time trying to create.

Warm Regards,
Michelle

Warm regards too Michelle. Again bravo from Dave, Dan and myself, you deserve it. And never hesitates to send me your new works at pelierc@yahoo.fr





The photographer and poet


Abandoned series 
"Who was here?
What did they do?
Were their dreams fulfilled?
I’d like to think there was laughter and joy.
It’s wonderful to imagine their presence in this place made a difference.
That someplace in the world there are others who remember them with fondness and appreciation. They were here and they mattered."


































The beautiful visions of a creator


"BookTree"












"Bottles"





 "Book forest"






"Torched"






Three unreal pieces of her series " Tree Study"

















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