I have only been a photographer for a few years, but once I started shooting I knew I was an artist who finally found her medium. To say photography has change my life would be an understatement. I look at the whole world differently since I started viewing it from a camera lens. I see so much beauty and wonder that others walk pass.

I am still trying to discover who I am as an artist. Fortunately, I have amazing mentors. They inspire, challenge, and push me. I am particularly grateful to my instructor Marilyn who is a constant source of inspiration. My fellow students do not realize what a brilliant artist she is and how lucky we are to be studying under her. She says I am a storyteller. Her wisdom and belief are invaluable. There are times some of her ideas seemed a little farfetched, but I have come to trust her implicitly. So if she told me standing on my head butt naked would make me a better artist I would do it in a heartbeat.

I have also learned a great deal from many of the amazing flickr photographers. Not only is their work inspiring, but they are so generous with information. One in particular is Kate Mellersh. Her images are incredible and her galleries are a must see for any new photographer.

Many amazing things have occurred as a result of photography. Projects and portfolios have become journeys. Through photography I have been able to explore my Native American heritage and have been warmly welcomed by this exquisite community. Through the Moving Wall images I have been able to honor my father and pay respect to the military community that was my childhood family.

Thank you so much for visiting my photostream. I would appreciate any comments or feedback.

Shari

My Artist statement:

Legend has it the first word I spoke was “why”. Much to the dismay of my parents, I never quit asking why. Of course their constant response of "because" only spurred my curiosity. Today my curiosity is still just as strong. I am completely and utterly fascinated by everyone and everything around me. Photography allows me to be an explorer, an adventurer, where I get the opportunity to utilize all I know, my senses, imagination, and reexamine with new eyes what is around me. Those discoveries are conveyed in a photograph. It is incredible to be able to capture a moment or event as it occurs, to notice something no one else saw, even though they were looking at it or to interpret an idea, text or music. I am a storyteller, I believe all people, creatures, places, and things have a story, a unique quality and I am compelled to tell their story in a photograph.

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