My earliest memory of the draw of fine art came in 1965 at the New York World’s Fair. My dad took me to the Vatican Pavilion where I was introduced, up close, to Michelangelo’s “Pieta.” I immediately experienced an overwhelming sense of AWE that became a life-long companion. In time, that awe merged with a love of photography. I learned to find awe and beauty in everything around me, from the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains to the hidden waterfalls minutes from my home. I become lost in the emotions that touch me as that beauty surrounds me. Creatively, I can focus on the reality of natural beauty, or I may find my perception of that emotional beauty. The art of my photography transcends the simplicity of the release of the shutter to a perfectly composed and exposed natural image. I use the science of photography with the art of the digital darkroom to produce the joy that I feel.

My current direction is loosely based on the Leo Marx’s thoughts on the contrast between technology and America’s pastoral ideas of the eighteenth century.

Mark A Phillips

The spirit and wonder of nature compelled me to broaden my audience through photography. I love walking through a field of flowers or finding a well-manicured garden to explore. I travel to national parks to seek flora and fauna to capture through the eye of the lens. I also seek unique forms in nature that provide an unusual look in the middle of the wilderness. Through my photographic presentations, I hope to instill in others my love for God’s creation.
In addition, I strive to create a sense of mystery to the images. The artistic impressions that I receive from my soul are ethereal and delicate, possibly with a sense of divinity. Through my impressions, I desire to express a hint of God’s presence between His creation and the creation from my soul.
In determining whether an image is a “Keeper”, I evaluate the image to find a possible ethereal quality and select the images that present this possibility. I also use post-production to add to the image’s sense of mystery.

Brenda K Phillips