Coexistence
The old and the new, side by side - a common feature of our modern cities
Coexistence
The old and the new, side by side - a common feature of our modern cities
Awards
World Photo Annual
2024Nominee
Architecture
Non Professional
Coexistence
The old and the new, side by side - a common feature of our modern cities
About Artist
Ruth Hellema
Artist Statement In her work, Ruth strives to capture and highlight the essence of the ordinary world that surrounds us. She seeks out the singular, impactful, and uniquely resonant elements hidden within everyday life, often focusing on her immediate surroundings, and brings these typically unnoticed details to the forefront. She approaches photography with a minimalist's eye, often treading the delicate line between reality and abstraction. Her focus lies in the subtle play of colour, the contrast between light and shadow, and the elegance of form and line. These elements, when captured, reveal a world that is at once familiar and yet startlingly new. Ruth's artistic journey involves interpreting these elements with a keen eye for their potential to harmonize, complement, or enhance human living spaces. By integrating elements of the exterior into interior settings, she aims to forge a meaningful connection between art and life. Recognizing the profound influence our environments have on our well-being, she creates works that blend seamlessly into interior design, fostering a sense of tranquillity and aesthetic pleasure. Bio 'The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera' - Dorothea Lange From an early age, I've felt the need to for self-expression, exploring a variety of creative outlets—painting, drawing, writing, and acting (very badly)—in search of my true passion. Yet, despite these ventures, I often felt like I hadn't quite found my niche. That all changed in 2005 when I bought an SLR camera and took a short photography course. Living in Spain at the time, I began photographing European streets, with a particular focus on their rich architecture. This newfound passion ignited a creative spark that only grew stronger. When I returned to Australia in 2013, I found myself reconnecting with the natural world, leading to a series of fine art flower photographs that expressed my deep appreciation for nature's beauty. Over time, my focus shifted back to architecture, particularly modern designs, where I’ve continued to explore and push the boundaries of my creative vision. Since picking up that camera in 2005, my journey has been a stimulating one of constant learning, experimentation, and discovery. Photography has not only fulfilled my desire for creative expression but also profoundly changed how I see and interact with the world. It has brought me a deep sense of harmony and serenity, connecting me to myself and the world around me in ways I had not imagined possible. Photography, for me, is more than just a medium—it's a transformative experience that has reshaped my view of the world.
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