Journeys North

Artists statement Graham Burstow Life itself is an interplay of emotions. It is the visual perception of these emotions which will give authenticity to our photography. While we all respond differently to the art of recognising the precise moment to document this interplay, the viewer will likewise respond differently, but usually comprehends our work in the simplest way. Therefore, in this project - which documents the outdoor life of people in south-east Queensland- I have given attention to simplicity, with the underlying emotional tensions to which viewers will respond. I have not intended to mystify nor to extend any degree of abstraction to my subjects. It is my desire to encompass a wide range oflifestyles which typify the vast majority of the public. They may be spectators, or involved in a particular activity, or may even be at work. I have not devoted much time to the skilled or expert people as these are already being covered by magazine photographers or the like. I have always worked in the medium of black and white prints and intend to continue in this way. By photographing in the cities as well as in the country I have aimed to document an interesting variety of people. I realize that our visual expression is the expression of our inner spirit and I hope that this will be visible in my work when it comes together as a whole.