Artists Statement:

Artist Series:

I am exploring the world of stereo photography in a time of 2-dimensional photographic art. My work is focused on composing contemporary portraits of fellow artists working in multiple disciplines. By making portraits in their studio it gives us a glimpse into the creative space that they use to express their own vision. I am approaching each session as if I were not there and just watching as art is unfolding before my eyes.

This series in the beginning is focused on the talents and diversity of local artists in my area but will be expanding as the series grows. This series will include more than just those working in 3d because many artists who are painters have a deep understanding and depth to their work and I wish to show the diversity of our Tampa Bay area.

The viewer is invited to look at the art through a special stereoscope that removes the surrounding elements and distractions and allows them a glimpse into the world of a 3-dimensional artist. It is almost as if they were present in the scene, they are exploring.

Gold Series

After years of searching for a new approach to my photographic art, I discovered a technique by a watercolorist which would give my work a shimmering quality. Once I learned the proper combination of paper, paint and ink, I created The Golden Collection using images of trees and flowers with a strong emphasis on light and shadow.
What I love about this collection is the warmth of the gold appearance along with a touch of iridescence. “The interpretation of fine art begins with you” is a statement that has been with me for over 30 years. It feels even more apropos today as I passionately create my new body of work to share with you.

Bio:

Jim has been a photographic artist that has captured images of the landscape and the people that surround his world since 1972. He is married to Digital Artist and Florida Professional Photographers Artist of the year Cheryl Anne Day . You can view her web site here to view some of her creative art. You may also view a poem that I wrote to Cheryl for our 2002 wedding Here
Jim and Cheryl created a photography Society in the Bay area called the Photographic Art Society to encourage other photographers in their quest for artistic excellence. They meet monthly to share creative images and learn new Artistic techniques. It has been their goal to help others enrich their experience in photography through education & inspiration.
My Love of photography keeps me on a constant search to create new and exciting ways to capture those special moments that are important to you.” Jim Swallow
After receiving a degree in photography from the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale in 1982 he joined Wilco Studio in Hollywood Florida and helped make Wilco Studios one of the top studios in South Florida. He then moved to Saint Petersburg in 2002 and became part of the Packinghouse Gallery and Photography Studio. The Gallery was one of only a few Photographic Art Galleries in the state.
Jim is a PPA Certified Professional Photographer and Florida Service Award Degree receipient .Jim is working toward his Photographic Craftsmen Degree which requires alot of dedication to the Art and Science of Photography which he is fully committed to.
Jim is a member of the Tampa Area Professional Photographers Association, Professional Photographers Guild of Florida, The Florida Professional Photographers Association, The Professional Photographers of America, The Wedding Portrait Photographers International and The National Association of Photoshop Professionals.