Artist Statement
One of the most satisfying feelings we humans can experience, I think, is the “Eureka” moment, when something unexpected and previously hidden becomes visible. For me, I often don’t even know what it is I’m looking for. The equivalent of pulling back a curtain.
In my own work, I find the most satisfaction and chances for “eureka”, in photography, especially macro photography. By definition, this discipline seeks to uncover and explore a world hidden to the naked eye. A world we inhabit but seldom see or appreciate. Since it explores views of the world usually beyond our experience, macro work tends toward the abstract, which aligns with my sensibilities as well. I am mostly drawn to the basic properties of light, such as refraction, deflection, interference to name just a few. I use combinations of lighting, solids like glass and crystal, fluids, holographic papers and films etc to produce various effects, most of which are fleeting and not reproducible. Which only adds to the mystery I think. Ultimately, I feel like a recorder, as opposed to a creator. It’s a lot of work, but the subject matter, what my camera captures, is the universe opening up and saying “look at this!”
In the more traditional world, I am drawn to the beauty of flower photography. The first artist I was ever really affected by was Georgia O’Keeffe. Her “Light of Iris” was the first print I ever bought and it influences me still. Nature saying "look at this!”
Being a bit older, and being retired from the workaday world, I’m more and more interested in art in general and in my own creative drive in particular, and have the time to pursue it. The satisfaction I get from my time behind the camera, (and even in editing) and the great pleasure and inspiration I get from other people’s art as we all navigate our time here, makes life not just tolerable, but joyous.
Collections
Abstract
Works of shape and colour, with nothing in the physical world to easily compare. Abstract images are most interesting as it frees us from constraints of what we readily recognize.
Botanicals
Photographing nature in all its variety is one of the most rewarding areas of macro photography. Subjects include insects, plant seeds, snowflakes, rocks, and much more. Nature offers endless inspiration and wonder — a rich source of beauty, detail, and discovery that continues to inspire photographers around the world.
What people are saying about Doug Meaney’s work
Hazel S.
"It’s hard to believe that such beautiful images are made from simple things like glass, foil, and liquids. They look truly amazing!"
Noah V.
"I looked at the photo with foil for a long time.. It’s incredible how perfectly all the tiny details are captured."
Lily M.
"I bought one of Doug’s artworks, and it truly brought a special feeling to my home. It made the space feel warmer and more beautiful."
Sophia K.
"I bought a print as a gift for my mom. It looks amazing, and the print shows every detail so clearly — just like seeing it in real life. My mom was so happy to add it to her art collection."
