"We will all rise beneath her wings." Art Photographer Answers Our Four Questions.

First, a few words from the artist …

My pseudonym DVS is an acronym for my studio, Dark Vision Studio, as well as a play on the word "devious", to which I define as "departing from the common norm". Simply put, I am an artist. Those four words summarize who I am...who I will always be...and how I am afflicted. Afflicted to always seek beauty within the shadows of life, find inspiration in those with amazing complexity and achieve serenity within the work that aspires from it.

DVS shared his answers to thedetroiter.com's famous four questions with Lee Runchey.

Why Detroit?

Detroit creates a unique breed of artist. Because we do not have many of the resources and opportunities other cities take for granted, we are forced to struggle through our individual hardships to stand and have a voice. This struggle makes us strong...unique...and gives us a commanding voice that is uniquely our own. We live within the shadows of our great industrial past shed from the light of our destined rising. Together we have despair and hope intertwined. Though this may seem tumultuous, it actually balances us. You cannot have one without the other. Like the night before the dawn, you cannot appreciate one with the absence of the other. So why Detroit? Because I see Detroit as the great phoenix that will soon rise from within its ashes to soar towards unmeasured heights...and with faith, we will all rise beneath her wings.

Why art photography?

Photography, for me, has been many things. In my black and white film beginnings, it was primarily therapy to express the inner turmoil from the tragic loss of a dear friend. I created sculpted androgynous figures in emotive postures that symbolically displayed what was going on within. I then created scenes for each one and photographed them as living entities to dispel the pain in tangible form. Now, within digital color, photography is a physical expression within the spiritual exploration of self. As I continue my evolving journeys of mind, body and soul, I try to convey my thoughts, visions and dreams within my imagery, now using actual persons. The challenge is then to give birth to these visions physically within the studio...honestly without digital manipulation through experimentations with real elements such as fire, hand-made wardrobes, unorthodox lighting fixtures and shadowplay. I came from film beginnings so I try to remain faithful to the essence of creation from the actual flaming heart in "Sacred Heart" to the swirling lights in "Maelstrom". All this while attempting to balance the image with the essence and persona of the model as overall, this art is a collaboration of two.

What is the future of art photography?

The future of photography, in general, is unfortunate with the wonderful advancements in digital technology. In the past with film, we took our time. We waited for or created the moments to preserve or merely immortalized candid moments of time. Now, many rush through taking many photographs in hopes to capture that one magic instant. Without much thought, we erase unwanted images that used to hold candid charm. We easily erase our history as well as an integral part of our lives. Photography, in a sense, has become homogenized, pasteurized and sterilized. I don't condemn it, mind you...I do it myself. The future of "art" photography, on the other hand, will depend on the ingenuity of those photographers who think "outside the box". Some are already experimenting with antique cameras retrofitting them with modern films. Some are using other technologies not design for photography to create the unconventional. As with anything else in life, never mind what is said you cannot do. Experiment, explore and have fun.

What is the future of art photography in Detroit?

I am currently working with other professional photographers on organizing a society of fine art erotic photographers. The group promises to be a collection of the finest photographers of erotica in the region as well as serve to re-cultivate the classic definition of words "fine art". It will also serve as a mentoring or guidance program to those showing promise within this genre as well as provide them exposure through printed annuals of collected works. It is in its infancy, but great names in the profession have seen its potential and signed on.

You can view DVS' diverse portfolio of art photography as well as other artistic mediums at “www.dvsdetroit.com”.

DVS, BT Charles, Chris Maher and Danielle Kaltz will display their work for “Hush”, the first series in The Dirty Show photographer showcase, at Pulse, 156 Monroe, Detroit. The opening reception is Thursday March 8 beginning at 6 pm and runs through March 31. Please see our arts calendar for more information on this and other arts listings.

For a look at previous Four Question Interviews from our archives, click here.