When Robert is not huddling behind his 50 years old 8x10 Deardorff field camera or getting intoxicated with chemical fume in the
small confine of his darkroom, he can be found on the road, on his
bicycle trying to navigate his way around the world. So far he had
found his way across Canada, and cycled from Seattle to New Jersey in
the States, and as well as gliding down the western coast of US. In his
effort to circumnavigate the Iberian Peninsula, he stumbled into the
heartland of the Flamenco and Bullfights of Spain via the Mediterranean
coast before his bike along with his heart was stolen in Granada. Cycling
offers a unique opportunity of direct communication with the people
associated with the land. This gives rise to the photographic journey
of “Shifting Humanity.” Of the routes chosen, they share the
commonality of cultural linkage, as well as known major human
migratory/cultural exchange routes. This can be best exemplified in his
latest adventures, cycling from Istanbul to Netherlands via Europe
mainland and from Lahore Pakistan to Urumqi China over the Karakorams/Himalayas.
Future trip includes Middle east crossing, length and width of Asia, Australia crossing, Eastern length of Africa, Central America and South America. While the mileages mount on his bike, his pursuit in photography is
equally intense. Working
and living with the late great Frederick Sommer in the desert of
Arizona was both experience of retreat and intrigues. He instantly
connected with Fred upon his unannounced and unplanned chanced visit.
Their immediate bond goes beyond the common passion for the elegance in
aesthetic, beyond words and images, but at the very essence of what is
being person before the artist. The experience has been one of sharing
in thoughts and feelings, exchange of ideas that are at once confirmed
and affirmed. Today, Robert continues his vision through traditional
photographic processes such as silver, platinum printing and wet plate
Collodion. Technical Note: All fine art images are 8x10 contact silver prints, while travel pics are a mix of images from medium format negatives and digital happy snappies. |