Artist Statement

This statement, like my art and my life, is a work in progress...

I make art to communicate my sense of wonder.

Photography inherently emphasizes light and time, two elements that lend themselves to spiritual thought. 

I photograph creation, in awe of the Creator.

Metaphor and symbolism are used to reflect the deeper elements of my intent while aesthetics reflect the inherent beauty of the event.

For example, the use of pure white areas in my images (no ink, no silver) are symbolic of what is called "uncreated light".  It is not a technical flaw but a purposeful omission.  (as seen in works such as "New Construction" and "The Way Out", for example)   Uncreated light was "seen" in the Transfiguration of Christ and is as close as I can get in this life to symbolizing Heaven.

I try to communicate on a universal level while maintaining a uniquely personal perception.

I hope the images inspire contemplation and a deeper understanding of life, therein leading us to love.

-Glenn Howell 

12/31/09

The website now has a combination of images.  Some are decorative, while others are what I call "Stepping Off Points to the Wonder of God";  mirrors and windows that provoke thoughts of the deeper meanings behind things.  Mirrors to ask questions of ourselves and windows to open up the world beyond us.  You'll have to distinguish each for yourself.

From a recent exhibition:

The Photographic Art of Glenn Howell

This exhibition is a variety of photographs that were created during one man’s walk with God, the subjects varying from the people of India to the native flowers of Virginia.  The photograph relies on the presence of light and these images are meant to emphasize this.  They can be read like poems or the introductions to stories, the main character being the presence of God.  Howell works intuitively and seeks to capture the moment when everything in the image is working in unison.  The compositions are not staged but just noticed during a deep sense of reverence and awe.  The post-production work is where the logical and creative aspects of the image come together.  Symbols and metaphor place a large role in the storytelling of Glenn’s art so the viewer should look for more than just what the subject matter is, but what it means.  The way that things allude to other things create a realization that there is a Great Mystery to life and we can catch glimpses of it occasionally when we are paying attention.  Glenn grew up in a family that had a deep religious tradition yet few were truly “Born Again”.  It took some time to sort out the difference and these images also reflect that journey of questioning.  In all,he hopes the work brings the viewer into a deeper understanding of the love God has for us all.