David Bergholz
Artist's Statement, January, 2006

A camera has been an important part of my life since I borrowed a Brownie from a friend when I was 10. My father, who was in the book business, would bring the annual collection of U.S. Camera home each year and I would wear out these volumes poring over the images. I began dark room work in junior high school and have been an avid amateur all of my life. I have always looked for - and found - ways to let my passion for my image-making and that of others flourish in my life. My recent retirement has allowed me to professionalize my work and make photography my central occupation.

The wonders of the natural world have long dominated my photography. I am a devoted gardener. I am drawn to photographing the play of light and season in the large garden my wife and I tend as well as to the tranquility of ordinary household objects. My work in the medium of Polaroid and digital collage reflects my interest in form, light, color and the organization of multiple images.

During the last year, I have begun to document aspects of Cleveland's urban landscape. I am fascinated by this still-struggling post industrial town and the special character of its physical space.