1st Place Winner “In a World of Color” Online Juried Competition and Exhibit: David Gardner
Explore an exclusive online interview with photographer David Gardner, where he shares insight into his creative process, artistic influences, and the philosophy behind his contemporary fine art photography. Known for his disciplined compositions and intentional use of light, Gardner discusses how landscape, architecture, and human presence converge in his work to create images that are both technically refined and emotionally resonant.
Can you tell us a bit about your journey as an artist—how you first discovered your passion for art and what has shaped your creative path over the years?
My earliest experience as a photographer came as a result of me pestering my mother to let me use her Brownie camera when I was about 5. She reluctantly gave in. I was fascinated by the fact that after drug store processsing, I could see the image I had framed in the viewfinder. My interest remained throughout the years, and I largely taught myself through trial and error. I've found that that methd is slower, but for me it has led to greater reward.
What does “In a World of Color” mean to you personally, and how did you translate that idea into your winning piece?
As a photographer, capturing an image in color is one of two options, black and white being the other. Color itself can be used to great effect in two ways. Where the subject's color is saturated, the captured image provides a blaze. When the subject's color is muted the resulting image is almost, but not quite, rendered in monochrome. My submissions to "In a World of Color" were of the former variety.
Every artist faces moments of uncertainty or creative block. How do you reconnect with your creative energy when those moments arise?
Generally, I don't have artist's block with photography. (I'm also a writer, and my writing is a different matter entirely.) What I think otheers may interpret as artist's block, however, is that some subjects just don't speak to me, or some angles may not grab me. I tend to walk away from those subjects.
Looking ahead, what direction do you see your art evolving toward, and are there any upcoming projects or exhibitions you’re particularly excited about?
For several years I've been working with images of House of Faith. In some ways they're easy to capture; they're made to be vsually impressive. In other ways, finding an image which hasn't been captured so often that it's lost its impact is difficult. Lately, I've been working on a new series of triptychs and quadtychs of images formed around a single theme.
How do you hope viewers feel or reflect when they encounter your work?
Many years ago a colleague told me that she wanted people to have their breath taken away by her images. One of the best defnitions of art I've encountered sys that art is a way of communicating the artist's feelings. I feel that my best work matches my friend's definition, taking my breath away. I hope that my audience has the same reaction.
How has participating in this exhibition contributed to your growth as an artist?
For many years I've worked predominately with black and white. Choosing images from my portfolio for this contest forced me to reconsider images from the impact of their color.
Anything else you want our audience to know about you?
I have found that my images that have the greatest emotional impact have generally come from situations in which conditions are very uncomfortable or in which I've been risking life and limb. I try not to think about that too much.
As we conclude this online conversation with David Gardner, we are reminded that photography, at its highest level, is not simply about capturing what is visible, but about revealing what is felt. David’s reflections on light, composition, and intentional observation offer a deeper understanding of how disciplined technique and emotional awareness work together to create meaningful imagery.
His commitment to precision, patience, and perspective reinforces the idea that powerful photography begins long before the shutter is pressed. It begins with attention. With presence. With the willingness to truly see.
David, thank you for sharing your process, your philosophy, and the experiences that continue to shape your creative journey. And to everyone joining us, thank you for engaging in this thoughtful dialogue. We encourage you to explore David Gardner’s work further and continue supporting artists who challenge us to slow down, look closer, and experience the world with renewed clarity.
Connect with David at:
Social Media: http://www.instagram.com/dg_photo_gallery/
