"I am passionate about constructing simple, low-tech, pinhole cameras as a way to see and understand what is hidden by the conventional representation of lens cameras. The pinhole camera is a playful and philosophical tool created and guided by intuition which allows extensive artistic freedom. This intuitive approach offers the opportunity for me to create intriguing and often whimsical images by allowing me to explore, experiment, and take artistic risks that would not be possible with a lens camera. I have designed and built over 100 different kinds of pinhole cameras from found and natural objects. Virtually anything can be turned into a pinhole camera: a coconut, a muffin pan, a cowboy boot, a fishing float, etc. If a chambered object can be light-proofed, it can be transformed into a pinhole camera. I’m excited by the fact that pinhole cameras don’t restrict my creativity with a light meter, a clicking shutter, or a viewfinder. In particular, the absence of a viewfinder turns the process of pre-visualizing a shot into a serendipitous process where I can “point and shoot “ from the hip. I enjoy improvising the content and composition of the photo and risking unexpected and playful outcomes.
Artist statement: I perceive the pinhole as a “seeing eye”, a single hole sieve that filters information. The human mind has the capacity to perceive and form perceptions into thought and image and to then reflect upon both itself and its products. This concept is the basis for the Mirror Reflection series: the pinhole camera’s “self-portrait” is an image of creator reflecting on its creation. I am also concerned with the pinhole camera-as-object, as a ‘ready-made’ – the pinhole camera being as important as the images it creates."
CK - All artists get inspiration from the world around them which helps them develop and expand their own creative path. A while back I remember stumbling across an image that caught my eye and inspired me. It was Ralph's potato as a pinhole camera photo. I remember thinking how outrageously brilliant and funny it was. And with a little further exploring, I found that wasn't the only ingenious pinhole camera he has made. So to be able to pass that inspiration forward in this month's feature, is a pleasure and an honor. Thanks Ralph and keep up the great work!
All Photos Copyright © 2010 Ralph Howell and Reproduced by Permission
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