Echoes in the Darkroom
Tracing Light Across a Photographer's Path
In the realm of art and expression, few journeys are as profoundly influenced by the twin forces of curiosity and creativity as that of photography. My own path, deeply rooted in these principles, began in the shadow of my father, Everard Williams Sr., a lifelong photographer whose dedication to capturing moments transcended mere hobby to become a legacy. Though initially fleeting, my earliest encounter planted the seeds of my future passion. It wasn't just the camera that captivated me but the magic of making prints in the darkroom. Yet, the unfulfilled desire to look like a pro led me away from photography, only to return years later in college.
Photography has always been more than the click of a shutter; it's a gateway to understanding the world. As a Junior in college, I looked for a class that would be an easy "A," unaware that taking a photography class would reignite my passion and curiosity. This time, photography gripped me, offering an experimental and personal creative outlet. The darkroom became my sanctuary, where time ceased to exist, and my academic pursuits paled compared to the time I spent alone in the dark with my thoughts and questions of "what if"?
The intersection of photography with my business studies prompted me toward ArtCenter College of Design, an environment where my resolve and creativity were tested. The rigorous curriculum, marked by academic probation in my first term, was not a setback but a loud call to delve deeper into myself and my craft. I made the decision to take the next term off to work and immerse myself in my photographic exploration, which allowed me to truly find my voice—a unique blend of curiosity and creativity that would define my work.
Emerging from ArtCenter, my career took flight in the vibrant tapestry of the late '80s and '90s, a period of exploration and identity. My work, recognized for its distinct style and vision, began to carve out a space in the competitive world of design, advertising, magazine, and entertainment photography. Yet, the call to share my knowledge and passion with the next generation led me back to ArtCenter, this time as an educator. Teaching was not just about imparting technical skills but fostering a reciprocal exchange of inspiration and creativity.
Beyond the technical mastery of photography lies the heart of my artistic philosophy: the power of curiosity. This insatiable curiosity, often remarked upon by peers, is not merely a personal trait but a fundamental aspect of creative exploration. It drives me to see beyond the obvious, to notice the unnoticed, and to find beauty in the mundane. Whether as a passenger on a journey, allowing the landscape to unfold in unexpected ways, or finding inspiration in the rhythm of a long drive, curiosity is my compass.
For me, the act of creation seen in my images happens because of a meditative practice I find in listening to music, the repetition of swimming laps, long drives in the car, long journeys on the bike, and even sensory deprivation tanks. All are a holistic approach to quieting the mind to think deeper. It allows the mind, body, and soul to dive deeply into the wellspring of imagination. This process is solitary but requires activation in the community. As the chair of a photo and imaging department, I stand at the crossroads of change and opportunity, committed to nurturing a space where diversity of thought and expression can flourish.
Our society, in need of authentic voices and self-actualized storytellers, summons us to embrace the diversity of our experiences as a creative superpower. As we journey together, let us sharpen our curiosity, for it is the spark that ignites the imagination, enabling us to manifest our visions into reality. This journey is about capturing images and creating a tapestry of shared experiences and insights.
I invite you to join me in this exploratory journey, a voyage that promises to observe the world and actively participate in its unfolding story. Together, we can build a community grounded in curiosity, creativity, and the collective pursuit of artistic expression. Let us share our stories, projects, and visions and allow them to transcend traditional boundaries, making creative information accessible to all.
In this space, we defy the hierarchies that stifle creativity, championing a culture of open exchange and mutual growth instead. Our mission is clear: to democratize the power of photography and art, ensuring that these tools of expression are within reach of everyone, everywhere.
Thank you for embarking on this journey with me. Your presence here is not just welcome; it is essential. Together, we will explore the vast landscape of human creativity, guided by curiosity and the shared desire to make the invisible visible, to bring the intangible within our grasp, and to illuminate the stories that connect us all.
I look forward to seeing what you share maestro!