The Art of Abstraction

The offspring of two photographers, Deb believes her inescapable passion for photography is imprinted on her DNA. For the past several years that passion has led her to abstraction in a quest to challenge reality and capture a feeling or impression with her camera rather than replicating reality with precision.

She is a frequent judge and presenter at camera clubs across the U.S. and also teaches a variety of courses on abstract photography. In addition, her work has been exhibited both nationally and internationally.

In her presentation Deb will explore the art and science that underlies the creation of successful abstract images in art and photography. Designed for photographers looking to enhance their creative vision, she will explore the role of the elements and principles of design in abstraction, as well as examine how Gestalt psychology influences composition and perception.

By analysing how these concepts function both independently and in combination, she will demonstrate their integral role in abstract photography. Deb will also discuss how abstraction challenges photographers to think differently, pushing them beyond traditional ways of seeing and composing images.

Her talk starts by defining abstraction in photography, distinguishing it from traditional representational imagery and considering some of the challenges facing abstract photographers. Through a series of visual examples — both her own and those of famous painters and photographers — attendees will see how the world can be abstracted by leveraging key artistic elements, including colour, line, shape, light, pattern and texture to create compelling abstract photographs.

Whether beginners or seasoned photographers, participants will leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation of abstraction, and a toolkit for thinking abstractly with their cameras.