Award-winning photographer Vicki Bell explains how she merged elements from three images to create a portrait with a difference, and an image filled with dreams and memories of childhood.
I am an artist in my heart and soul, in the way I see, think and feel. Photography is my vehicle and my craft; it enables my imagery to present itself. The journey from concept to print has to be exceptional all the way. The print is the platform for my imagery to exist on for all time and beyond my time. I have a love of “childhood” and I create memories that have never existed. I aim to present a delicate dreamscape with a harmony of tone, texture and colour. All these elements come together to gift a story the viewer can personalise and interpret.
This image is created with three elements, the portrait of Meg, intentionally styled for simplicity, the late afternoon seascape and the majestic hundred-year-old tree. The elements are carefully etched and assembled together. The canvas is finessed with a painter’s intention, addressing the colour palette, modelling of light and texture to blend.
“Memories of Meg” contemplates the often forgotten sensitivity and imagination of childhood play. It addresses the beauty of children exploring the beachscape beneath the tree of life. Meg embraces herself and holds onto her dreams. This is about reflection and protection of our childhood memories in a world oppressed by an accelerated pace of “living”.
Memories of Meg. Image by Vicki Bell.
Vicki Bell is an award-winning portrait photographer. She is based in Balwyn North, Victoria. Article first published in Australian Photography + digital, July 2013.
Memories of Meg, 2010. Image by Vicki Bell.
