Kara Johnson : capstone

Abstract

The artist's statement: When looking at my photography, location is a heavily considered factor in my work. Location is a factor that can influence many facets of our lives. Landscape, as we perceive it, is a dynamic article that consists of people, places, and memories. These are things that I understand to be true. Location and landscape encompass more than just physical surroundings; I think that any location we observe is a combination of social and material aspects that convey an attitude and feeling about the space. The perception of location is an experience I document and share visually. I capture the quiet moment in the spaces built for experiences and observations, whether they are populated or deserted. The locale, with all of their specific attitudes or quirks, is what makes these places unique; with the people in my photographs, the setting’s eccentricity is revealed. Without them, their legacy is apparent. My photographs are meant to be a window for the viewer, to show them the physical and social landscape that makes a location unique. As a place, the natural landscape and the surrounding social backdrop of Fort Collins conveys a unique attitude like no other. The physicality that any person can explore is visually stunning and when combined that with the social mind-set, an indescribable attitude within this town is born. Through the lens of a camera, I propose to capture and document the visual experiences of the landscapes of Fort Collins. On the other hand, graphic design as a medium is also a type of landscape. Within the dimensions of a two dimensional digital space, landscape is built by the addition and subtraction of shaped colors and text. My favorite graphic examples of landscape can also complete a space in which when viewed is a combination of social and material aspects that convey an attitude and feeling about the space. As well as documenting location, I seek to also create my own landscapes within a very different visual medium and context. The perception of location and landscape is something that always has and will in the future inspire me. Often I find my job, relationships, places I enjoy, and capabilities influenced by the attitudes of a location regardless of weather I am a resident or visitor. Further, knowing and feeling the attitude is a completely different experience as an outsider to the location and community. My art is an experience, communication, and creation of landscapes.