
Why Chasing Shadows ?
Chasing Shadows is the Autobiography of Rabbi Hugo Gryn, written posthumously by his daughter Naomi with whom I had only distant contact. It is a story of survival and the triumph of good over evil. A message of the power of hope, symbolised by the light of a candle. I read it first many years ago, but the lessons gifted to me from its well - thumbed pages have remained etched in my memory ever since. It proved inspirational when I most needed something to believe in. Many times since, I have tried, wherever possible, to share its message with others who find themselves in a darkened place in the hope that it lights the way for them as it did for me.
Whether using photons, paint, or words to create a story, 'Chasing Shadows' is an idiom for the way I work. As photographers, we expose for the shadows. Much of the work I do with the Circus is characterised by the use of darkness and shade, a chiaroscuro world of light and shadow that I rarely perceive in any way other than Black and White. So much of my art has been influenced by the Chiaroscuro Masters Rembrandt, Amandus Faure, and Caravaggio, whose ability to use the interplay between shadow and light breathed life into their work. The modernist influence of Chagall is also never far away, and his interpretation of the Circus has - in my opinion - yet to be surpassed.
'Chasing shadows' is also an idiom linked intimately to my 'fight or flight' reaction to personal Trauma.
The Etymology of Photography places its origins closely to the Greek genitive. Consequently, most of us agree that its closest etymological relative is 'drawing with light.' Others say they are 'chasing the light.' Of course, both interpretations are perfect for that purpose. But peeling back the etymological onion a little further reveals an even older proto- indo (Sanskrit) root meaning, 'To Shine.' It's a rather vague link, but I'm sticking with it.
Art has the power to transform lives. Thanks to the power of photography, I'm seeking the light more and more and chasing the shadows less and less. I hope my work takes people – especially those living in shadow – to a better, lighter place, a place where they, too, can shine. Because we all have the right to live in the light ​
...and to shine.
I hope you enjoy my work.
B