Bronwen Hyde
What part of the process of creating art do you like best?
I enjoy all aspects of the creative process: formulation of an idea in my mind; setting up the shoot which may include costumes and a basic set or particular location; shooting; and digitally post-processing to produce the final images.
What is your working environment like?
As I don’t have a formal photographic studio at this time my working environment changes with each shoot, though my home often doubles as a makeshift photographic studio and my spare room as my editing studio.
What kind of (formal & informal) art training have you had?
I completed a Diploma of Illustrative Photography at Photography Studies College in 1997 but have had no further formal training since. Much of my recent knowledge of Photoshop comes from my own experimentation and from contact with other artists’ work.
How has your art training affected the kind of art you produce?
I take inspiration from many sources, picking out what I feel applies to my work from training, critiques and other influences, so I believe my art has been more strongly influenced by my own interests and inspirations than specific training.
Name some important influences and inspirations in your art career.
I tend to be most inspired by fellow self-portrait artists and portrait photographers as well as by films, novels and music. I have an extensive list of inspirations but constants would be Cindy Sherman, David Lynch and Alfred Hitchcock.
What has been the most difficult thing you have encountered in your work?
I suffered a “photographer’s block” for much of 2002 to 2004, so the most difficult thing was picking up my camera and having the confidence to use it again. Finding an audience and inspiration online helped me get past it.
Have there been major turning points in your art career?
Since I conquered my photographer’s block and bought a digital SLR I have had a lot more freedom to pursue my photography as I’ve been less restricted by the expense, and I have developed my style further in that time.
What has been the highlight of your art career?
To date the highlight has been my debut solo exhibition, “Alternate Worlds” held in August 2007 at Brunswick Street Gallery. However I look forward to future highlights that will ultimately overshadow that.
Artist comment about “Domestic Goddess”
Sometimes it’s nice to take a break from self-portraiture to photograph someone other than myself. When I find a muse I feel comfortable with who has a similarly open mind and sensibility it is something I thoroughly enjoy – especially when photographing good friends in settings or situations that are somewhat staged, but where their natural poses, expressions and beauty can shine through and complete the picture in my head.
Artist comment about “Sorry, I’m Washing My Hair... ”
From 17/4/07 to 16/4/2008 I completed a 365 Days project, a self-portrait a day for a year. The project was a challenge, though an enjoyable one, exploring characters, costume and narrative; film, musical and artistic influences; alternative lighting; multiple images and clones; mine and other people’s bathrooms; death; the female form; and my own life, psyche and red ribbed-velour sofa. “Sorry, I’m Washing My Hair…” represented Day 208.