MEDIUM photography and photo art
FEATURED WORK
(Click to enlarge image)
WEBSITE charlannmelusophotoart.com
STATEMENT
As a photo artist and photographer, I engage in the use of digital technology during my daily routine as part of my photographic journey. I utilize the latest technological advances to enhance and improve my images and fine tune them to my liking.
Expanding my portfolio, which contains an eclectic mix of street photography, abstract images and montages fuels the never-ending search for unusual, compelling and striking images to satisfy my passion for the art of photography.
In a world saturated with visual images, I make certain that my photographs and montages are unique, original and have genuine interest to me. As I look to my environment, I carefully choose subject matter that begs to be photographed, whether serious, mundane, romantic or whimsical. I have become increasingly aware of my surroundings, looking to discover images from everyday and unexpected sources.
The moment a photograph is born, the interpretation of the photographer’s world becomes visible. My years of experience with photography have taught me that a great photograph may result after many hours of labor, or simply as a spontaneous occurrence. Some of my most memorable and emotion evoking images were captured “in the moment” never able to be duplicated as it existed in that precise space and time. As a result, I am prepared for those moments and always have my camera by my side.
My use of photography, not only in its traditional form, but as a tool to create photo-based artwork has increased dramatically in my quest to create and archive new, original and unusual images in my portfolio.
What I see and capture must satisfy both my eye and my soul and also have visual impact that will evoke a feeling or reaction within the viewer with whom I strive to have a similar connection. Since my photographs and montages are conceived with the notion to be seen, pondered and enjoyed, the emotional connection with the observer completes the intent of my artistry.
BIO/CV
My career began with the study of Fine Art and Art Education at JCSC in 1970. Upon completion of my Master’s Degree, I began teaching Art in the Bayonne School District while creating and producing my own individual artwork. My early works were based in Commercial Art and Design.
For the last two decades, I have focused on Photo Art and Digital Photography. During this time I exhibited my work in numerous juried shows and participated in local, national and international competitions enjoying much success. To date, I have received 40+ awards for my efforts.
In June of 2014, I retired from teaching after 39 years of service to pursue my Photo Art and Photography full time and continue exhibiting my work. On average, I participate in approximately 30-40 photography and art exhibits annually.
Memberships and Affiliations
NJ Photo Forum; Art Educators of New Jersey; Visual Arts Center, Summit NJ;
Watchung Arts Center; Art Circle of Bayonne; Discover Jersey Arts/ArtPride New Jersey Foundation; Hudson Artists of NJ; Contemporary Art Group; ProArts Jersey City; JCAST