Please introduce yourself.
Hi, my name is Darlene Riel.
Tell us about your favorite art medium.
My medium is photography. My passion is to travel and to explore other countries and their cultures. I’d like to think that I “see things” that many people overlook. I’m drawn to texture and aged patinas, especially of wood and metals. I like to print my images on premium canvas, as I feel that the nap of the canvas gives my images extra texture and depth.
Who/what is your biggest artistic influences?
On occasion I like to take some of my photographs slightly out of focus, and with the addition of digital post processing noise, they become very painterly. I first became more familiar with this process by Canadian photographer Michael Orton who started “painterly impressionistic images” that became known as “Orton Imagery”. This might sound familiar to those who use Adobe Photoshop software as “Orton Effects” were integrated into their post processing software in the 1980’s. Otherwise, my influences are what I see in the world around me and in my travels.
What motivates you to create?
Sharing my photographs opens dialogs about a sense of place, memories, and the love of travel.
When is your favorite time of day to create?
Early morning or late afternoon. However, because I may be traveling at any time of day, lighting may not always be perfect. I’m often moving constantly. I do not go on “photo shoots” and I therefore capture images of what is presented to me as a passerby.
Does art help you in other areas of your life?
Socially, it definitely does! Belonging to Auburn Old Town Gallery (and two other galleries) and being around so many creative people is a huge bonus and inspiration. I’ve also met some amazing fellow travelers and people from all over the world, and many keep in touch.
___________
Read Darlene’s previous interview here.
___________
