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I
continue to hand develop my original black & white photographs
in a traditional “wet” darkroom as I have for over 20
years now. They are all full-frame silver gelatin prints with oil
paint, watercolor dye and/or crayon applied directly to the surface.
The majority of pieces are available in small limited editions,
each unique because each has been individually printed and painted.
I also
continue to experiment with heavy paint application using techniques
acquired through the teachings of Holly
Roberts. These pieces are also painted with oil, using brushes
and linseed oil as a medium. Most are done on self portraits, resulting
in a cathartic experience as they evolve and create themselves during
the painting process. Each is one of a kind.
I include black and white contact images in my archival matting
technique - showing the original unaltered image as well as 2 or
more other images that relate to the story line.
The camera is my way of capturing illusions of reality on film by
utilizing the raw purity of black and white photography. I explore
ideas using various different photographic techniques ranging from
infrared, unusual angles, close-ups, to self portraits. Enriching
the photographs with my hand painting techniques allows me to amplify
the mystique and intrigue of a particular scene, enhancing the emotional
and spiritual content with the paint.
I began studying photography after earning a BA in Psychology at
UC Irvine in 1975. In 1983, I started to focus my efforts on hand
coloring, supplying that surreal edge I was seeking in my work.
Employment as a professional retoucher, performing an internship
at MOPA and participating in various workshops, have contributed
to my art. My work has been exhibited in galleries and has received
numerous awards. In 1995, I began participating in art festivals.
The opportunity to teach photography at a private high school in
Albuquerque took me to New Mexico in the fall of 1996. After 3 intense,
rewarding years of teaching, my desire to pursue my art full time
led me to Colorado in the year 2000.
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Padgett McFeely 
