New Gallery Representation

I am thrilled to announce that I will now be represented by O’Born Contemporary Gallery in Toronto. This beautiful new gallery was launched this year by Donald O’Born under the direction of P. Elaine Sharpe and managed by Natalie MacNamara. There is no doubt that this gallery will not only be a force on the Canadian photographic art scene, it is destined to be a player on the world stage. P. Elaine Sharpe brings with her an amazing pedigree of knowledge and experience. As a professor at York University  she is in a position to speak intelligently to artistic ideals, as an artist herself, having the real experience of living from her art practice, she brings insights and experiences beyond the intellect. This combination puts her into an authentic place of authority and under her guidance this will be the gallery to buy from and to be represented by. I am truly honored to have been invited to be part of this organization. Stay tuned for upcoming exhibits!

Posted by Edward Gajdel   2 Comments » September 2008

On Portraiture

Since the beginning of photography the portrait has been a constant undertaking of the many artists that have chosen to work in the photographic medium. This rich tradition has provided fascinating insights into our past and at times has served to define those who have shaped our history. I think of Karsh’s portrait of Winston Churchill as a shinning example. One cannot think of Churchill without seeing that image and his searing glare that immediately draws us into his persona. That quality which defines an individual in the form of a portrait is an elusive one. It demands that the artist transcend many dichotomies. It requires a familiarity with ones craft to a level that allows the artist to work with the  cumbersome and often intrusive tools in a way that  blends their physicality into a seamless invisible performance of intention and trust. To accept the constraints of time and find timelessness within those borders. To know the subject intimately without ever having experienced them personally. I’m speaking of that small opening that one tries to find which opens the door to deeper understanding. Leonard Cohen sang it so eloquently …”there is a crack in everything, that’s how the light gets in.”

Posted by Edward Gajdel   2 Comments » September 2008