Photographer & Installation artist Linka A Odom.

Born in a suburban Dallas, Texas, I spent most of my childhood adventuring in the creek behind my home. This passion for the unknown and adventure has continually influenced me. After graduating from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts in 1997 with a B.F.A. in Photography, I spent several years traveling to third world countries exploring, learning and documenting diverse cultures. These experiences strongly influence my value system.

Upon moving to Los Angeles in 2003, I began working in the LA professional photographic industry, as well as touring the underground art scene. It was during this time, I developed a unique way to showcase my work. I began building interactive, photo-based light box installations. These allow the viewer to experience my images in outdoor settings, such as music and art festivals. I have traveled to numerous festivals all over the United States and I am now preparing to bring my interactive installations to tour the European festival circuit in 2012.

After 8 years in California, I took a leap of faith and left the United States with the intention of fully focusing on my photography and advanced degree. I am currently enrolled in an online Master’s in Photojournalism and Documentary Photography program through the University of the Arts in London. This program affords me the ability to travel and continue working on various documentary projects.

Ancient civilizations, such as the Mayans, Incans, and people that live on the edge, such as Gandhi, Aung San Suu Kyi, and Ernest Shackleton inspire me. I have a great need and desire to see justice in the world. My work is influenced by this intention and a wild passion to make a difference.

I work to get off the beaten track and seem to find myself in locations that take way too much work to get to - such as, flying into a town, then taking a 12 hour bus ride, hopping on a boat, then hiking for three days...perfect.

I mainly shoot with a Pentax 67mm and a Nikon D300, as well as a Canon FTB, Canon G11, and an original Polaroid land camera. I still love waiting for the film to return from the lab, I love the 'not knowing'.

Since August of 2010, I have traveled to ten countries, including Nepal, Morocco, Ireland, and the Canary Islands, exploring the diversity of these cultures while expanding my portfolio

I invite comments and feedback. I am open to people sharing my imagery... of course with my copyright intact, not for commercial purposes without permission.