Luminous and Ethereal Abstract Photographs

Michael Amrose, amroseartphotography.com, creates luminous and ethereal abstract photographs. His dynamic style is characterized by significant open space, an expressive use of color, and his ability to transform his subjects into new, emotive and thought-provoking images. He states, “Color, form, shape, and line become my subject speaking to the viewer with a new, independent voice.”

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. DO NOT REPRODUCE IMAGES WITHOUT THE ARTIST’S PERMISSION.

Abstract 6.1 Untitled #74, digital photography, 25″ x 25″

His art is found in many businesses and homes in Canada and Western NY and he has participated in numerous exhibitions. He had solo exhibitions at Pausa Art House (2019), VASA-Project.com (2020 online), and Genessee Print Framing Gallery (2020). His photographs also were exhibited at the art hotel, Hotel Henry (2020).

Michael received First Prize at the Artsphere Gallery, Buffalo, NY “Movement” exhibition. He won a Featured Artist Award in the “Celebrate The Healing Power of Art” exhibition, an Award of Merit in the “Hot Topics” exhibition, and an Honorable Mention in “New Beginnings” exhibition – all from Manhattan Arts International. His portfolio was also published online in the “Journal on Images and Culture” at VASA-Project.com (2017). 

Abstract 6.1 Untitled #70, digital photography, 25″ x 25″

Amrose’s study of the great photographers of the past and his affiliation with three institutions have shaped his passion for photography. The fantastic artists and people associated with CEPA Gallery, a center for artistic innovation, CPSI (Creative Problem Solving Institute), and SUNY@Buffalo’s Center for Media Studies influenced and touched his life, leaving an indelible mark on him both as a person and as an artist/photographer.

CEPA Gallery was highly influential in developing photography fundamentals and techniques and his understanding and appreciation of photographic aesthetics and experimental and contemporary photography. For the first time, he “saw” the photograph as art, photography as an art form.

Abstract 6.1 Untitled #84, digital photography, 25″ x 25″

Also influential were the internationally renowned avant-garde filmmakers and artists at the highly acclaimed Center for Media Studies (CPSI), where he earned his MA in filmmaking. His education and experience in structural film and documentary filmmaking significantly informed his photographic methodology and philosophy. 

Though having little to do with photography, CPSI is key to both the processes he uses to create his images and the images themselves. It is fundamental in unlocking his creativity and imagination and empowering him to transcend traditional ideas and norms. The creative process is integral to all aspects of his photographic journey. 

Film school led to five years of freelance scriptwriting in Western NY and Toronto for corporations, non-profits, and NY State. This experience writing actual shooting scripts developed and honed Amrose’s filmmaking and photography skills. During this time, he was an adjunct professor at SUNY Fredonia, where he taught filmmaking. He also was a mentor/facilitator for VASA-Project’s Global Photography Project.

Abstract 6.1 Untitled #78, digital photography, 25″ x 25″

Michael explains, “Abstract art is powerful because it reaches into the viewer’s inner psyche by minimizing conscious distractions while evoking unconscious feelings. As a result, abstract photography presents me with unlimited possibilities to explore and communicate the many dimensions of human emotions, and in turn, gives rise to emotive responses from the viewer. Consequently, I can express myself through a unique, visual language where the vocabulary has deep cultural and emotional connections.”

He adds, “I strive to expand the boundaries of the photographic medium beyond traditional approaches and the medium’s ability to reproduce reality. I consider the semiotic, psychological, and cultural impact on the viewer of specific colors, shapes, lines, and form used when designing my subject. The application of unorthodox photographic and lighting techniques to capture my subject, which incorporates various art types, enables me to move beyond representational images and allows me to explore photography’s capacity to create an abstract experience unencumbered by reality. My efforts resulted in images with depth, rhythm, and energy that are abstract, new, compelling, highly emotional, and spiritual.” 

Abstract 6.1 Untitled #82, digital photography, 25″ x 25″

The artist further explains, “I am invested in the process used in creating these images and in the process of creativity itself. My images are original and abstract, and they resonate with me on a profound, unconscious, and emotional level as I hope they will impact all who experience them.”

Banner image: Detail of Abstract 6.1 Untitled #83, digital photography, 25″ x 25″

Visit Michael Amrose’s website at amroseartphotography.com

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Facebook: michael.amrose.9
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