UNA Student Explores Artistic Forms In Senior Photo Exhibition

Dec. 1, 2011

FLORENCE, Ala. – Focusing on the human art form and light, UNA senior John Phillips worked for more than two years on a culmination of artistic experiments to present “Liberation,” a series of photographs that will be on display in the visual arts building Nov. 21 through Dec. 1 at the University of North Alabama. The reception took place Nov. 27 from 2-4 p.m.

Phillips, 23, will graduate in December with a bachelor of fine arts degree with a concentration in photography. A native of Killen and graduate of Mars Hill Bible School, Phillips spends time outside of classes doing in-studio and wedding photography and is currently looking at graduate programs to earn a master’s degree in photography.

Phillips’ art display explores the mental impacts of the interplay between light and shadow on the human form. He said he focuses mostly on fine art nudes using three models and approaches the art form from a psychological standpoint. Though Phillips worked to do the bulk of his senior art exhibition this semester, he prepared for it for years using different photographic experiments that study how light changes and affects the composition of images.

“When I began photography, I desired to make breathtaking and perfect images,” he said in an artist statement. “As I grew and became exposed to different artists, I focused on the emotions that an image creates, rather than its technical perfection. I have had many styles and looks as I experimented with light, but this series has combined beauty and emotion. I have reached a goal that I set for myself a long time ago, to create powerful and aesthetically beautiful images.”

Inspired by 20th century surrealism, Rene Magritte, Salvador Dali, Man Ray, Joel-Peter Witkin and Ralph Eugene Meatyard, Phillips has worked to make local art more accessible by helping to organize the semi-annual Yart Sale in Florence with other UNA students. He also wishes there was a bigger push for art in the Shoals to keep artists living in the area, rather than moving away for better artistic opportunities.

For more information about the exhibition or reception, visit www.facebook.com/events/188567514562433or contact Phillips at 256-740-2848. You may also contact the Department of Art at 256-765-4384.