Brad Carr — Artist’s Statement
Driven by the pain of my childhood, I create photographs to represent the fruits of my ongoing labour to find belonging and create purpose in this complex, ever-evolving world.
I explore our landscape and wild places with undying curiosity for growth and a desire to discover a sanctuary for refuge; a place of safety to process emotions and heal wounds.
I learnt some tough lessons throughout my youth from the men that guided me. As an adult, when I eventually became myself, I made a conscious choice to look towards nature for the guidance that I always craved whilst I was just a sapling.
From trees, I seek wisdom. Amongst forest networks, I learn the importance of community and communication between old and young. From the free-standing oak, I learn the bravery that it takes to stand alone and I see beauty in the solitude and silence. When I stumble upon roots, I am reminded of my own and I keep one eye on where I came from, whilst I fix the other firmly towards where I might be going. When the burnt sienna and deep ochre leaves of autumn arrive, I am reminded by the trees to let go and to release my fruits into the world.
From mountains I seek strength and boldness. The climb teaches me persistence and resilience that is required to reach the summit. The summit is where I learn how valuable it is to gain perspective and approach this world from a different angle occasionally. It is in the valleys where I learn the most, however. I’m taught that there is beauty in life’s ups and down’s, and down here, in the dirt, I slog away, day after day. More importantly, I grow, and I work towards becoming the version of me that will be required to reach the next summit.
From lakes, I learn the importance of stillness. With that, comes an opportunity for reflection. When I look into reflections, I see myself; what I am or, perhaps, what I wish to become.
By capturing these beautiful moments that I experience out there beside the tranquil lakes and amongst elegant trees, and turning them into art, I wish to impart some of the wisdom that I have learnt along my journey. I hope, more than anything, to inspire others in the world by sharing my stories; stories of growth, healing, transcendence and reconnection.
Just like the apples on the branches of trees, these photographs are the fruits that I choose to bear. I hope that they can make this world a much sweeter place to exist and restore equanimity by making up for the damage caused by some of the guardians in my early life.
