epilogue. – Taylor Freiburger

Email: taylorfreibur@gmail.com

Based in Kitchener, Taylor Freiburger is currently an undergraduate student at the University of Waterloo in the Honours Arts and Business program, majoring in Fine Arts studio practice. Some of the key areas that she focuses on within her work include perception and reflection, working primarily within the medium of photography. She explores aspects of perspective, light, and shadow as she experiments with photographic techniques in her areas of interest

Artist Statement

My work focuses on the properties of reflection and perception – the ways in which viewers may interpret and perceive things in various ways. I am interested in the factors involved, both internal and external relating to components of self-reflection as well as societal influence.

Through the medium of photography, I explore the subjectivity of self-perception and how that perception may be influenced or altered. Photography allows for adjustments in exposure and framing, where elements including light and perspective play a significant role. I incorporate the use of mirrors as my work explores both the physical and mental properties of reflection.

I was inspired by components of Plato’s Allegory of the Cave through ideas of shadow and questioning of perception. My work aims to question what and who we see when we look at ourselves – whether we see the whole or a part. My intention is to prompt the viewer to consider and reflect on their own perceptions.

Interview Questions

What aspects of your life inspire your art?

My personal experiences in life and how things can be viewed and interpreted has played a role in inspiring my art. I think the way we see various aspects in our lives can have a significant impact. A main theme in my work surrounds perception; I have always been interested in the ways in which people see and experience things. Additionally, my own reflections surrounding thoughts and experiences have contributed to inspiring some of my work. I have also found that sometimes it is just the everyday, seemingly-mundane aspects of life that can contribute to inspiring me.

What are your preferred mediums and why are you drawn to them?

I experiment within aspects of mixed media, but my preferred medium is primarily photography. Although most of my recent work has surrounded digital photography, my experience with photography started with a film camera which led me to experiment in the darkroom. What drew me to the medium was being able to manually focus and frame photographs the way I envisioned, along with being able to adjust aspects of perspective.

Where do you see yourself in the future? How do you see your art practice evolving?

I see myself continuing my art practice by creating through the medium of photography, as well as exploring different mediums. I think my work will evolve and develop along with my experiences throughout life. Although I have some main themes of focus that my work has surrounded, I also hope to delve into other areas within some of my future work.

What is the most significant thing you will take away from your Fine Arts studies?

The most significant thing I will take away from my Fine Arts studies is the knowledge and experience I have gained over the past few years, not only through exploring my areas of interest and creating bodies of work, but also through learning from my fellow peers and observing the incredible work that has been created.