Conceptual Photo Based Art

Conceptual photo-based art, also known as conceptual photography, is a genre of art where the concept or idea behind the work holds greater significance than the actual visual elements or aesthetics of the photograph itself. In conceptual photography, the artist often aims to convey a message, explore a theme, or provoke thought through the use of imagery, symbolism, and narrative rather than focusing solely on capturing a visually appealing scene.

Here are some key characteristics of conceptual photo-based art:

1. Emphasis on Concept: The primary focus is on the idea or concept the artist wants to convey rather than technical proficiency or aesthetic appeal.

2. Symbolism and Metaphor :  Artists may use symbolic objects, settings, or compositions to represent abstract ideas or themes.

3. Narrative or Storytelling: Many conceptual photographs tell a story or evoke a particular mood or emotion through visual storytelling techniques.

4. Experimental Approaches: Conceptual photographers often employ unconventional or experimental techniques to create their images, such as manipulation of light, perspective, or digital editing.

5. Social or Political Commentary: Some conceptual photographers use their work to address social, political, or environmental issues, sparking discussion and raising awareness.

6. Minimalism and Abstraction: Conceptual photography may involve minimalist compositions or abstract imagery to provoke thought and interpretation.

7. Viewer Participation: The interpretation of conceptual photographs often requires active engagement from the viewer, inviting them to contemplate the underlying concepts or themes.

Overall, conceptual photo-based art challenges traditional notions of photography as a purely representational medium and encourages viewers to consider photography as a means of exploring ideas, emotions, and concepts in a visually compelling way.

Photo by JoelValve on Unsplash

COPYRIGHT 2007-2024 Patti Friday b.1959.

Photo-Based Art

A photo-based artist is an artist who utilizes photography as a primary medium for creating their artwork. Instead of traditional painting or sculpture, photo-based artists use photographs as the foundation for their artistic expression. This can involve various techniques, such as manipulating and editing photographs digitally, creating collages, or incorporating photography into mixed-media pieces.

Photo-based artists often explore the intersection of photography and other art forms, blurring the boundaries between traditional photographic techniques and other artistic disciplines. They may experiment with different processes, materials, and technologies to create unique and thought-provoking visual experiences.

The term "photo-based artist" reflects the evolving nature of contemporary art, where artists increasingly integrate diverse mediums and techniques to push the boundaries of traditional artistic practices.

COPYRIGHT 2007-2024 Patti Friday b.1959.

What is a 'Photo-based Artist?

View my Artist Statement here.

A photo-based artist is someone who creates art using photography as their chosen medium for creative expression. Unlike traditional photography, which often aims to capture reality as it is, fine-art photography transcends mere documentation. Here are some key points that differentiate a photo-based artist from a regular photographer:

1. Personal Vision: Photo-based artists approach their work with a personal vision. They use the camera not just to record what they see but to express their unique perspective, emotions, and ideas.

2. Beyond Realism: Art photography goes beyond realism. It seeks to create images that we haven’t encountered in everyday life. These photographs often evoke deeper meanings, emotions, or concepts.

3. Aesthetics and Beauty: Fine art photography is about aesthetics and beauty. Artists define their own standards of what constitutes an image as artistic. It’s something you enjoy looking at, appreciating its visual appeal.

4. Transcending Reality: Art photographers look beyond the surface. Their work delves into mysteries, spirituality, and depth. It’s not just about capturing what’s visible but also what lies beneath.

5. Concept-Driven: While photographers react to their surroundings, artists have specific concepts in mind. They create images based on ideas, feelings, or themes. The end result is a materialization of their unique vision.

In summary, a photo-based artist uses photography as a powerful tool for self-expression, pushing the boundaries of what can be captured through the lens. 

COPYRIGHT 2007-2024 Patti Friday b.1959.

Patti Friday Artist Statement

Artist Statement:

My works of art are visual records

of the adventures that capture

my daydreams and personal landscapes.

I explore my surroundings with a

candid, cinematic and emotional approach.

I live life and photograph it.

Often the images

emanate a vernacular

snapshot style.

Sometimes a carefully

composed still life.

Mixed media enhancements

give my photo-based art

a contemporary aesthetic.

The photographic storyboards

coloured in my mind

are filled with questions about

nature, sensuality,

the people of Canada

and its cultural mosaic.

I want the viewer

to experience unexpected,

picturesque chapters

of imagined, meandering

narratives with

a sense of wonder, humor

and playfulness.

Everything is interesting to me.

That’s what I'm

documenting, expressing

writing and archiving.

Peace Love Create Art Gather

Patti

COPYRIGHT 2007-2023 Patti Friday b.1959.