Jill Coleman

At the moment, I sell a few prints here and there but I have not yet exhibited my work. That's by my choice, and I will show it sometime. I can't predict the future, but I will always do photography even if it is just for the love of it.   The photographs in this story are taken from two series (“How Much of Me is You” and “Freedom to Dream”) done over a period of 2 years and the series is ongoing. I got into the subject because first of all I am a "sometime" painter and I used to paint nudes. Secondly, I am a recovering alcoholic/addict and I use it as a "tool" for my own recovery.  My passion for photography far outweighs my previous drug of choice and simply proves the point that one does not in any way need any "chemicals" to create.   Every single shot has its own story, and they are partly about recovery, depression, isolation, but about beating it as well! They are also partly about love and falling in love.  Heartache and tenderness and acceptance as well.   They are certainly highly personal works, although I am completely open about the fact that I am a recovering person, and I think more people should be, so as to do away with the "stigma" surrounding addiction which is an extremely common and debilitating disease.   I use myself as the model; I couldn't possibly use anyone else!   I don’t really have an overall style. My style changes constantly and I like to try new things all the time.  I work mostly in Black and White but suddenly I will see things in color and do a vibrantly bright image.  My only artist's statement might be, "There are no straight lines in nature", first said, I think, by Gertrude Stein. My Gran, who was an artist used to say it all the time! My advice for young photographers is to always trust your eye and try not to copy others too much, create your own style!  And never ever think that fancy, expensive equipment will make you a wonderful photographer, work with the eqipment you have and make the most of it, adapt!!!  Don't get rid of your traditional cameras either; traditional film photography will always have a place. In fact, I want to study traditional photography again at some stage, so I can use both digital and film!!! I really can offer no other hints except that one should never give up and just keep working at it, if you are good enough and have enough passion, somebody will notice your work! You can see more of Jill Coleman's work at irisf64.com

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