Hometown: Melbourne
Based in: Melbourne
Photographic artist Nadia Culph, skilfully manipulates and controls light. Her still life images are inspired by nature's curiosities and wonders. Keeping her composition simple, Nadia creates stunning photographs that aim to bring the intricate details of nature to the fore. They are a reminder to 'stop and smell the roses', to slow down and appreciate the little things.
Living in Melbourne's leafy suburbs, Nadia takes inspiration from her local surroundings and Australia's native flora. Intrigued by unusual patterns, striking colour and bold contrasts, she uses natural light to capture the unique design of her botanical subjects. Everything from Australian flowers and spring seed pods to tropical leaves and exotic feathers.
"In the age of highly sophisticated editing programs where photographs are heavily modified and transformed, I try not to alter the image to maintain as much realism as possible, to celebrate the natural design of my subjects and pay homage to their inherent beauty. The stark black and occasional white background holds the viewer's eye on the subject without distraction and keeps the image simple and uncomplicated."
With over 25 years experience in fine art photography, including 10 years in the technical field of photographic printing, Nadia's images have made their way to homes and businesses around the globe. An experienced online seller, Bluethumb Featured Artist & Art Prize finalist and Art Lovers Australia art prize finalist. Her work has featured on House Rules High Stakes and is now available in The Block Shop.
Nadia's artworks currently hang throughout BASScare Morgan Glen Iris and are soon to be a part of the new refurbishment of Rydges Melbourne and Capella Sydney. She has worked with local interior stylists with her prints used in numerous property auctions and businesses. Nadia has also worked with international art consultants Peter Millard & Partners and The Artling on large scale projects.
What inspires you?
Living in Melbourne's leafy suburbs, I take my inspiration from my local surroundings and Australia's native flora. I'm intrigued by unusual patterns, striking colour and bold contrasts. Light and shadow play an important part in my work, so my biggest inspiration is natural diffused sunlight.
Describe your creative process.
My creative process can begin from a vague idea, the way light hits a beautiful subject or an incredible specimen growing nearby. All my work takes place in my small home studio with my camera, a large window, a black backdrop and for the last step - my PC.
What are 3 words that best describe your work?
Dramatic, colourful, bold.
Who are some artists that have influenced your work?
I'm influenced by the beautiful work of Robert Mapplethorpe, Irving Penn and Imogen Cunningham.
What is the most important tool when creating your work?
Natural light is the most important ingredient for my work.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
The best piece of advice I've heard, is that not everything has to be a masterpiece, make mistakes, practise and just keep going.
Where do you go for inspiration?
Our neighbourhood is a great source of natural beauty, but local florists and nurseries often provide new and unique flora that may not be found nearby.
Education
PSC
Australia, 1993
Exhibitions
Room with a View
2022
Bluethumb Gallery Opening
2022
Monochrome
2021
Nature and Creativity
2018
Awards
Finalist Art Lovers Australia Art Prize
2021
Finalist Bluethumb Art Prize
2021
Finalist Art Lovers Australia Art Prize
2020
Education
PSC
Australia, 1993
Exhibitions
Room with a View
2022
Bluethumb Gallery Opening
2022
Monochrome
2021
Nature and Creativity
2018
Awards
Finalist Art Lovers Australia Art Prize
2021
Finalist Bluethumb Art Prize
2021
Finalist Art Lovers Australia Art Prize
2020