Today we’d like to introduce you to David Clifton-Strawn.
Hi David, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started exploring photography eight years ago, using it as a tool of self-exploration. I then turned my attention to photographing my friends and began to study photography seriously, with a focus on studio portraiture. One of my projects was photographing Atlanta creatives from multiple disciplines. The connections I formed through that process (I photographed 101 creatives) opened up my work to the fine arts community and changed the direction of my work. I start my business four years ago as a side-line to my full-time job. Last October, I left my job of 15 years and began working as a photographer full-time. I recently accepted a part-time position as the Assistant Gallery Director of Alan Avery Art Company and I am thrilled to learn about that part of the art business and to get that knowledge directly from a curator whose gallery has been operating in Atlanta for 40 years.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I have been very methodical in my approach to my career but even with the best plan, there is only so much for which you can plan. The Covid pandemic and the turbulent economy have impacted my business and my client base but I have managed to survive all of these challenges through the support of my husband and my friends.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
The focus of both my commercial and personal work is portraiture and that is how I have established my reputation. I have recently begun expanding my images, still using people but in ways outside of traditional portraiture. I am proud to have had one of images purchased by The Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia for their permanent collection in 2019. I am also happy to have two galleries in Atlanta showing my work. The comment I receive most often about my work is that I capture people in a compelling way that reveals an inner quality.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
Luck is definitely a factor. I bring to the table a strong work ethic and quality work, but there is a large role that your social and professional network plays in your success. And many times, it is simply having yourself at the right place at the right time.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.davidcliftonstrawn.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidcliftonstrawn
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cliftonstrawnphotography
Image Credits
Personal Photo: Ria Rouse
