Artist’s statement
Influenced by European architecture, statuary and sculpted gardens, my meticulously captured images are steeped in romanticism and historical essence. My photography rediscovers forgotten architectural nuances that the contemporary conveniences of modern-day life have overshadowed. Soft monochrome and sepia tones emphasize nostalgic details of timeless scenes reminiscent of less complicated times.
Studio dei Giardini
The gardens of Italy and France rank among the most stunning in the world. These unique places can be conceived of as picturesque landscapes or elegant enclosures flourishing on private estates where only a select few have enjoyed their secluded splendor. Tame or overgrown, gardens are sources of inspiration, and to the eye, works of art in their own right, reflecting both historical significance and design. Their calming beauty rewards the unhurried and beckons the preoccupied.
Travelling extensively throughout Italy and France for the past several years, I have captured on film a sampling of some of the most exquisite landscapes, gardens, and villas these regions have to offer. An eclectic variety of contemporary and historical horticultural themes are featured, with styles reflecting Baroque, Classical, Medieval, Renaissance, English, Japanese, and aquatic motifs of garden design.
Some locations are public access retreats, like the elegantly terraced garden and olive grove on the grounds of artist Augustine Renoir’s former home and studio. More exclusive estates appear to be manicured to the last blade of grass, with marble statues, sweeping arches, lily-laden pools, and backdrops distinguished by elegant chateaus and villas.
The featured images for exhibition were created using traditional black and white printing processes. Others were hand crafted on watercolor paper utilizing the antique Platinum/Palladium and Albumen printmaking process, in an effort to illuminate the alluring, timeless essence of the garden sanctuary.