Kutsuris’ Artist Statement

In this collection of works, I utilized photos taken from nature over the course of six weeks from all different locations, as well as the photos I took of the model in a photography studio. I combined the two, aiming to create a natural and awe-inspiring appearance. The basic idea of these collected works was to take photos of a model with the quality of studio shots and incorporate them into a new, naturalistic background. Rather than being in front of the background, I wanted the model to be a part of her new surroundings. In order to accomplish this, I decided to use multiple exposures in every piece.

I created this work in order to show that beauty is all around us, it is in both nature and who we are naturally. For this reason, I chose not to edit out any perceived imperfections because I find that flaws are not what define people. Flaws, in their own way, are beautiful which is why I created this group of work. My overall vision from creating these photos is for people to realize that flaws are beautiful and natural. By combining nature with my model, who I shot without cosmetics, I was able to produce a series of eye catching pieces of art. I expect viewers to realize that the nature of my model and her surroundings were blended for a purpose. In order to symbolize that nature is one in the same, beautiful.

At the beginning of this project, I was always confused with the use of masking layers in photoshop. Due to this, I decided to go with an idea that would push me to work with masks more. Masking layers are essential to creating a multiple exposure piece, so I learned. I also began to realize how important it is to move the layers, or props, around in ways that would best compliment the location and pose of the model so that it would all blend together peacefully. After finishing this project, I feel I have gained more experience with multiple softwares, people, and nature. I created this work to improve both the way society thinks as a whole and myself as a photographer and a person.