Varun Baker, Jamaica
Statement:
My work explores the relationship between multiculturalism and subcultures. With influences as diverse as Henri Cartier-Bresson and Albert Camus, new variations are generated from exploring both new and familiar cultures. Ever since I was a teenager I have been fascinated by humans’ fleeting permanence. Impressions of light and shadow allow moments and meaning to be captured in a photograph. In University, I jumped at the opportunity to learn the process of developing black and white film and making prints in a darkroom.
All photos from the Jamaica Series.
Today I work with a digital SLR camera. The Jamaican society, in which I have spent most of my life, is vibrant and full of rich contrasts. I explore this with a strong use of color and by manipulating heavy or light tones in black and white photographs. When I travel outside of Jamaica, the camera allows me to become immersed in new cultures and perspectives. This has made travel an essential part of my creative process where a feedback loop allows for new connections to be made and provides an evolving vantage point. Recently, I have become more interested in conceptual work and political and social commentary. I seek to highlight these subjects within controlled environments as a way to show greater nuance.
Copyright: Varun Baker