David Clifton-Strawn, an Atlanta-based photographer, has returned to the world of photography after more than two decades, not to create art for the sake of it but to rediscover himself.
His initial departure from photography came after profound personal losses; he lost his partner during the AIDS crisis and, subsequently, his husband due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
As part of his healing process, Clifton-Strawn’s therapist recommended journaling. However, he found this method unappealing, expressing, “I really hate writing.”
Instead of putting pen to paper, he took up his camera.
In a pivotal moment, Clifton-Strawn began capturing images of himself, embarking on a journey to reconnect with his identity and forge a new sense of self.
This personal project soon expanded as he began photographing friends, leading him to rediscover the art community he had distanced himself from after many years away.
Upon remarrying and returning to Atlanta with Billy Clifton, Clifton-Strawn felt a compelling urge to re-engage with fellow artists, which eventually blossomed into the book ‘After a Long Intermission: Portraits from Atlanta’s Creative Community.’
This compilation features 100 portraits, showcasing the vibrant artistic landscape of Atlanta, made possible with support from the city.
The project commenced in 2019 as a means for Clifton-Strawn to rebuild connections with other artists.
As he immersed himself in this creative endeavor, it grew into a comprehensive reflection of Atlanta’s diverse artistic ecosystem.
The book features not only notable visual artists like Michi Meko, Shanequa Gay, and Kevin Cole but also encompasses a variety of performers and creatives across different disciplines, including dancers, drag artists, writers, and burlesque performers.
Key figures who contribute to Atlanta’s art landscape, such as gallerists Alan Avery, Susan Bridges, and Yu-Kai Lin, are also included alongside leaders like Camille Love, the Executive Director of the city of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, and Catherine Fox, cofounder of ArtsATL, whose portrait is now part of the Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia’s collection.
Clifton-Strawn expressed, “The privilege of getting to sit with someone, one-on-one, is something I cherish.”
He feels a deep gratitude for the unique opportunity to document the encounters through his portraits.
One captivating photograph features Michael Rooks, a curator at the High Museum, in a suit tending to a garden at Susan Bridges’ Whitespace Gallery.
Clifton-Strawn explained that Rooks would visit the garden to escape the bustling environment of the museum, occasionally watering it if needed.
This led to the perfect image, capturing Rooks in his element.
His method of portraiture is conversational, often starting with lengthy discussions before Clifton-Strawn even picks up his camera.
He strives to create an atmosphere where the subjects feel at ease, allowing their true essence to shine through, as he believes, “the best pose is no pose.”
His ultimate goal is to depict individuals authentically, aiming for images that resonate with friends who see them and respond with sentiments like, “Oh my God, he captured you perfectly. This is so you.”
His portraits reveal not only individual identities but collectively illustrate Atlanta’s artistic community.
Clifton-Strawn noted the impressive diversity among the city’s artists and highlighted the palpable sense of community, stating, “The way people show up for each other’s openings, the group shows, the collaborations.”
He emphasized a collective dedication to addressing significant social issues through their work.
While the book ‘After a Long Intermission’ may appear as a concluding chapter for the project, Clifton-Strawn continues to take new portraits.
He remains focused on both emerging talents and established icons who have significantly contributed to shaping Atlanta’s cultural institutions.
For Clifton-Strawn, the years he spent away from art serve as an intermission, while his renewed passion reflects both his personal journey and the vibrant spirit of Atlanta as it welcomed him back.
‘After a Long Intermission: Portraits from Atlanta’s Creative Community’ will be available from September 25 at the Atlanta Art Fair (Alan Avery Art Company booth), at davidcliftonstrawn.com, and through the Atlanta Photography Group.
Additionally, there will be a signing event on September 27 at the Alan Avery Art Company booth from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Andrew Alexander writes from Atlanta.
image source from：artsatl
