Debra Fedchin
Professionally a geekette, I have worked as both a wage slave, and as an independent systems consultant. I tend towards more of a creative bent to balance out the geekiness of my current occupation and I often strive to encompass both within a work engagement. I simply chalk this up in an attempt to balance both halves of my brain.
I dabbled in many areas before falling into geekdom. I still long to be a cartoon when I grow up, if only as a voice-over artist. My father envisioned (and encouraged) me to become a Photographer for National Geographic, instead once upon a time I was one of those annoying Baby Photographers you find in the likes of K-Mart, and Wall-mart. Completely self taught it was during this time I was surprised to find that I was the “preferred” photographer by the sales force. I was noted for the time I took to draw out and capture the “true essence of personality” in the children I photographed, recognizing that a child’s forced smile did not reflect their authentic nature.
Along the way I have garnered awards in various juried exhibits, once receiving first place for my Black & White submission and simultaneously receiving third place for Color at an ADP Corporate sponsored event.
My current photographic work runs the gamut of photojournalism through Fine Art Photography.
My published photo-journalistic work primarily focused on active Fire scene coverage for local volunteer fire departments. For this work I managed to snag a front page or two in local papers with considerable regional circulation. I love depicting both the human side as well as exposing the dangers that face these everyday heroes. This work is and was done simply as a labor of love. It started out as a way for this mother hen to watch over her sons in action but which grew into much more. It gave me a greater appreciation for all volunteers who strive, without pay to make the world a better place. Besides I liked the snappy Turn Out gear!
Having my work installed at the Philip Hone gallery marks my entry into a gallery environment. For this opportunity I would love to publicly Thank Caroline Denaro for having the hutzpuh for displaying both established as well as emerging artist's work at Philip Hone.
I feel that photographs have the ability to engage the viewer, transporting you to a time or mood, and possibly open your eyes to the yet undiscovered - if only you take a moment to stop and really look.
