Featured Artist Jonathan Brooks

 Jonathan Brooks takes simple, striking photographs that capture the viewer’s imagination and invite interpretation. Visit his website to view more of his portfolio.

 

 

I’ve loved photography since my childhood. I adored the still images in magazines, advertising, and hardcover book anthologies of that era. I was also always drawn to imagery in black and white that was the norm for still images, and the moving pictures of film and television, before the advent of color in each of those genres. I was completely intrigued by how the same image could be interpreted and change depending on which form was used.

 

 

I was always artistic and loved to draw. I was constantly doodling and began studying graphic design right out of high school. Photography became my main form of expression after two and a half years of the relentless detail of architectural studies.

 

 

Architecture ruined my free-flowing passion for drawing and doodling, and I lost interest in it. I turned my studies to advertising and the camera became my new pen.

 

 

Although photography was my new-found method of expression, I was bored by the typical family portrait or the travel photos in front of historical monuments. I was drawn to the images that showed me something from a different angle or point of view, or that the art behind the capture made it more interesting.

 

 

Suddenly, we live in a world where we all are photographers and carry a camera around with our cell phones. And with an abundance of mediocre images all around us, I believe it creates the chance for those truly more creative images and photographers to stand out.

 

 

I think the most important images are those that capture your attention and remain embedded in your mind. I believe space, aesthetics, and composition are vital elements of a great photograph.

 

 

I also think minimalism, simple design, and visual focus can help in creating strong images. Sometimes simplicity helps to clarify the message you are conveying in your work.

 

 

This has become extremely important in a time where we are bombarded by visuals.

 

 

I tire of art that tries too hard, has too much of a backstory, is impossible to explain, and ignores the rules of art and beauty. Just give me iconic, classic, and beautiful photography.

 

 

I’ve always completely stood behind the idiom “a picture is worth a thousand words.”

 

Artist Jonathan Brooks invites you to follow him on Facebook and Instagram.

 

Want to stay current on cutting edge business articles from Artsy Shark, plus artist features, and an invitation to the next Call for Artists? Subscribe to our twice-monthly Updates, and get a free e-book on Where to Sell Art Online right now!