My photographic journey began in the darkroom, meticulously crafting prints after hand developing rolls of film and sheets of 4x5, using makeshift tools to make creative adjustments. After a reluctant start, I developed an appreciation for the ease and accessibility of digital cameras and formats, but felt something was missing.

Whether as a distraction or just curious, lately I’ve been investigating historical processes (cyanotypes, tintype portraiture) as well as incorporating alternative techniques (cold wax/oils, gilding) to complement my photographic art. It’s the latter that constitutes much of my portfolio here as it reintroduces the tactile approach in a multistep process that culminates in holding one’s breath in expectant euphoria when beholding the results.

The allure of hand-applied gold leaf, once relegated to religious iconography, quite literally renders the image precious and imparts an otherworldly luminescence that emanates from the highlights…and so I am smitten.