From www.maryannemitchellphotography.comMary Anne Mitchell's work is derived from her experiences and visual "dreams" that move her to create. Her work documents the world in a manner that transforms the subject into something quite different from reality. The images depict situations, often mysterious, which draw the viewer into a narrative. The subject often appears isolated in a strange or surreal setting. In each piece, the artist invites the observer into her curious world. The images evoke ambiguous moods and each viewer’s response to them will be tempered by their own experiences. Mary Anne's artwork is primarily shot on film and printed by the artist as silver gelatin photographs.
About "Like Diamonds in the Sun"My images are reflections of an idyllic past, shot with nostalgia and yearning for a time of youth and innocence often characterized by my children. These sweet, invented memories of epic childhood reflect my conflicted feelings around their imminent departure from home. The work celebrates the last moments of innocence, and mourns the loss of naiveté—and proximity—that is even now changing our mother-child relationship. My choice of black-and-white medium and traditional darkroom printing allow me to express these conflicting emotions. I often make the shadows void of details or blow out highlights to give the sense that there is something hidden and possibly threatening or foreboding. These are the untold stories of this series. These black blacks and light highlights also illustrate the contradictory nature and intensity of my feelings. Vestiges of my own southern childhood filter through with the choice of locations, which illustrate my view of the universal timelessness of coming of age and its effects on family.
All about Mary Anne Mitchell:I am a Georgia native and have exhibited my work in solo and group exhibitions throughout the United States. My photographs have been featured in online publications such as Burn and Plates to Pixels and can be found in private and corporate collections around the country.
AAP: When did you realize you wanted to be a photographer?As a freshman in college, I bought a 35mm camera and took a class to learn how to use it and fell in love!
AAP: Where did you study photography?Received a BFA from UGA in Athens, GA
AAP: What or who inspires you?I always loved Edward Weston and Cartier Bresson as far as the masters of photography. My kids are currently my muses.
AAP: How could you describe your style?Much of my work captures authentic moments in atmospheric b/w.
AAP: What kind of gear do you use?I shoot film and use mostly 35mm Nikon cameras or Holga or Blackbird Fly plastic cameras.
AAP: Do you spend a lot of time editing your images?In darkroom some dodging and burning.
AAP: Favorite(s) photographer(s)?I always loved Edward Weston and Cartier Bresson as far as the masters of photography. There are so many contemporary photographers doing amazing work...hard to pick...really love Vivian Maier and her whole backstory is so fascinating.
AAP: What advice would you give a young photographer?Shoot constantly but selectively.
AAP: Your best memory has a photographer?Strolling anywhere in Europe, camera in hand!
AAP: Your worst souvenir has a photographer?A soaking wet Nikon and lens after being knocked over in a canoe while trying to get an incredible shot!
