in•spi•ra•tion
(Noun)
The quality of inspiring; Guidance or influence exerted directly on
the mind and soul of humankind; the act of drawing in.
A lot of artists call the individuals that inspire them
“influences.” I guess I decided to skip that - and just call it what
it is “Inspiration.” I’ve had the fortune of being inspired by
multiple sources, let me share a few:
My number one inspiration would first
and foremost have to be the models I work with. It’s somewhat
incredible when two creative minds connect and the work starts
flowing. Following the models, I’ve had had multiple influences
inspire me as well.
Bruce Weber(a native of the Pittsburgh area), one of America’s most
profound photographers, has been studying men for what seems
like ages. Bruce’s work has not only challenged our society at
large but its given expression to clients like Calvin Klein,
Ralph Lauren & Abercrombie that rely on him year after year.
Bruce photographs most of his models nude prior to shooting them
for his clients. Some of this work (although hard to find) is
available on the internet – incredible work!
Christopher
Makos, another inspiration, used to jet around the world
with icons like Andy Warhol vacationing and taking photos at
leisure. One of Christopher’s recent projects was a joint effort
between him and Calvin Klein. They published a photo book by the
name of “Exhibitionism”
that really somewhat pushes the envelope. This book, available
on Amazon.com, is unashamed to show masculine, full frontal
displays of men and their bodies. Calvin & Christopher are
spearheading a movement based on the appreciation of the art we
know as man.
Locally, there is a wonderful, unreserved
artist by the name of Mara Rago.
Mara’s work is beautiful and incredibly appealing to the eye.
She has been doing nude work here in Pittsburgh for at least 10
years that I know of and I doubt she plans on slowing down! She
has been noted for finding beauty in everything and for deciding
to never use the word “ugly.” Someone with her eye and her inner
ideals is truly an inspiration to a budding artist like me.
All work is
expressly (C) Copyright 2005 by Tony Sand - ALL RIGHTS ARE RESERVED.
DUPLICATION IS PROHIBITED