Karthik Tambar
Vibrant colors and the use of mirrors, doorways, and other gateways as portals of sorts are recurring themes in my work. I joined Expanding the Walls because photography intrigued me and was something that loosely appeared in my environment. I quickly fell in love with photography, and my process became so much more than just taking “cool photos.” My work generally depicts objects and people I see in life, whether day-to-day or something unique I witness on the street. The pandemic has forced me to notice people and things around my home that I previously took for granted. The strain the pandemic has put on small businesses has been a theme I have explored through photography in my neighborhood, which is filled with them. Some of my inspirations include Texas Isaiah and Carrie Mae Weems. Driving questions that I ask myself when taking photographs are, “Is my work unique?” and “Will this catch the attention of a viewer?” I think it is important for an artist's work to stand out because then their messages are conveyed more effectively. I hope to continue taking photos and making art about the effects of the pandemic on people and places around me, in addition to mirrors and portals in my environment.Doorways, 2021Untitled, 2021