About Me
First and foremost, I respectfully acknowledge that I work, learn and play on the ha-houlthees of the tseshaht and hupač̓asatḥ nations.
The diverse cultures we share and the connection we have to the land is vital to our identity, both individually, and as a whole. It is best if we support others while protecting and preserving the land for future generations.
Greetings! I am Alexis, a photographer, designer and artist from Port Alberni BC, Canada.
The forests are my backyard; they are my roots, along with the mountains, rivers, lakes beaches and the inlet.
To live in "The Valley of Trails" is an amazing privilege to which I am forever grateful for.
Some other hobbies I enjoy besides photography and design include hiking, camping and film. From fishing in the inlet to floating in a tube down the Stamp/Somass River, I am always up for some outdoor fun. I also love watching films and immersing myself if the art direction or style while experimenting with my own short films.
Background (photography)
To me, photography is an intricate yet simple art that anyone can enjoy and learn.
I first began taking an interest to taking photos when I was fairly young. As a little kid, I was always documenting my life in film and photo.
My first camera was a digital point and shoot which was found in a recycling bin.
When I was about ten, I was excited to acquire a blue, water proof Fuji Film, a gift from my Dad.
For the time being, I have been happily using an early Canon Powershot G9, a used camera handed down to me from my grandparents.
I occasionally use my smartphone (Samsung S9) to shoot when I am without one of my other cameras.
*As of spring, 2021, I have been experimenting with instant film with my newly acquired Fuji Instax Square.*
Ultimately, its not about the quality of the camera. Photography is about the memories we keep and share and the emotion we capture alongside it all. It is about the stories, people and artistic view portrayed.
Photography is a way of life, it freezes moments in time with meaning that differs from person to person.
Photography is a form of history, art and lifestyle.
Inspirations
What inspires me: my photography style
I am most moved by old photos from the past with their grainy and film feel.
35mm film photography has always managed to take me back in time to the decades that inspire me. I have developed my style in a way that reflects the past while folding in details of current day.
As for fine arts and design, I gather inspiration from current events, people in my life or specific styles or themes I come across. My style is unique in its own way and has developed over the years. It reflects a type of "raw" mixed mediums and natural to unrealistic tones to which connect with my personality in that moment.
Future Aspirations
Currently, I do not expect anything along the lines of starting a business or employing myself in the photography world.
For now I am content to share my art and photos with simple, local platforms, with little expectation of making extensive profit. I am happy to simply share at this time.
As for art and design, I wish to keep expanding my skills and exposure as well as experimenting with the business aspect of it all. I hope to attend a collage or university in my future to further broaden my skills and involvement in fine arts or design.
Email me-alexiskelly103@gmail.com