Reaghan Toth

The Art of the Artist's Supplies

Project Type: Photography  

Programs Used: Adobe Lightroom Classic + Adobe InDesign

Year: Fall 2020

I created The Art of the Artist’s Supplies in my Digital Photography class. In this project, I explored composition in connection to my passion for fine art.

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The Art of the Artist’s Supplies is a photography series that documents art supplies. The series was shot over two sessions, and both sessions began with gathering art supplies and setting them up in unique compositions. When taking the photos for this series, I focused on the framing of composition. I approached this series in terms of composition because I wanted to turn these art supplies into works of art themselves, and one of the most important aspects of any work of art is a strong composition.

I created this series not only for my love of art, but also because I believe the process of creating is the true nature of any artwork. This belief is clearly voiced in the photos of this series. Art supplies, which are essential items for creation, are made works of art in this series to visually demonstrate the true art of creating.

From looking at this series, I want viewers to gain a new appreciation for art supplies and how they are behind every work of art. I want viewers to be artistically inspired by the photos, maybe even compelled to create themselves. The Art of the Artist’s Supplies represents the creative process behind every artwork. Every surface is blank until an artist skillfully uses an art supply to create something new. Art results from creation and the artist’s supplies are embedded in the creative process.