My art is autobiographical.
I collaborate with various people who provide an alter ego in front of my camera and through whom I express myself.
These alter egos symbolise the feminine aspect of my psyche the ‘anima’ – hence, my signature body of work is titled the Anima Series.
The Anima Series is a lifelong creative project and includes such themes as spirituality, the human condition and lost innocence. The last of these derives from my military service as a teenager in the Australian SAS Regiment. This experience has moved me in the opposite direction, towards the feminine part of the masculine psyche as a means of striking a balance in my life.
The brooding Gothic appearance of my images reflect the shadow side of human nature, yet also acknowledge the wonder and fascination we experience as children. The world is simultaneously haunting and beautiful. New and old. Challenging and wondrous.
For me, the Anima Series is a spiritual returning to myself.
Lismore
Byron Shire
