Artist of the Month April 2007

Derek Jecxz

Yardley, PA

How and when did you start creating art?

At age 12 I purchased a manual 35mm camera and discovered the joy of photography. Unfortunately, due to a home burglary, the experience was short lived. Years later, in the late 1990s, I rediscovered photography as a way of expressing myself without words. I have been hooked ever since.

What media and genres do you work in?

I shoot with a Hasselblad medium format camera. I use transparency film, which is scanned and printed with minimal adjustments--nothing more than what would be done using chemical darkroom techniques. For my gallery prints I use textured fine art paper because I feel it adds character to my photographs.

Who or what are your influences?

I believe my life experiences have had a significant influence on my photographic style. Since I have been trained more by the real world than by formal schooling, I have neither traditional role models nor the advantage of having studied the technique and style of accomplished photographers. Therefore my creativity must come solely from within and I find that every day is a new learning experience.

The inspiration for my photograph "Eternal Bird" was the seagull himself. In this photograph there are two subjects: the seagull and the world. While setting up the photograph, I wanted to convey my respect for both his strength for existence and his freedom in the world. I couldn't help but feel inspired by this seagull. By placing a piece of Saran Wrap in front of the lens, I gave the photograph a dreamy atmospheric effect.

Describe your creative process?

My creativity begins when I get myself "in the zone." This partly means clearing my mind and focusing on the landscape before me, but there is much more to it. I know I am in the zone when I no longer notice the camera and it has become an extension of my body. Unfortunately, I have no other way to explain it; I just know that it is an awesome feeling to be able to create photographs that have an emotional element.

What are you working on currently?

Currently I am experimenting with large prints, 60" x 40" on a variety of paper and canvases. Since I travel roughly 13 to 15 weeks per year for photography, I am also always planning the next trip. Plus there is a never-ending backlog of film to look through; work never seems to end.

What are your near/long term goals as an artist?

I'd have to say that a very important short and long term goal is to push my creativity to the next level. I enjoy experimenting with my camera equipment. I would also like to see my photographs in a few more galleries around the US and perhaps worldwide.

Where can people view/purchase your work (gallery, website, etc)?

My artwork can be seen on my website www.jecxz.com, which includes my contact information. From time to time I also exhibit in juried shows nationally. I can be emailed at derek@jecxz.com.