Introduction by Anne Mclellan:
Ken Tickner is a Saskatoon based photographer. He studied architectural design at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology where he honed his drawing skills and eye for detail. Ken has attended numerous workshops including Emma Lake and “See With New Eyes” seminar with renowned photographer Courtney Milne. He has exhibited his work in solo and group exhibitions as well as having work in Art Now Saskatchewan Fine Art Fair. His photographs are also featured in DVDs “Artistic Visions”, “Classical Film Photo’s” and “Soul Dreaming” with musical accompaniment by Saskatchewan musicians including Jack Semple. Ken has published a book of his photographs “Light Effects” in 2007. He gathers his images when going out for walks with his wife or going outside of Saskatoon. Ken’s photographs draw you in with his use of light and color. His work can be found at the SCC Fine Craft Boutique and at the Galeriste.
Interview with Ken Tickner
the illuminations collection
kentickner.com
What kind of artwork do you create?
I create film and digital photography featuring a variety of scenes including nature or still life and showing close up detail of subjects. This is done with my macro or telephoto lenses. I never have problems finding colourful flowers to capture their great beauty.
What first drew you to your medium?
After taking a photography class as part of my architectural technology course, I took a nice photograph of a low cloud and sun by pointing the camera over my shoulder through a tinted green bus window. Later, my father suggested I take a course with Hans Dommasch at the Emma Lake Art Campus connected with the University of Saskatchewan. I enjoyed the course and continued experimenting with photography techniques on my own.
How do you get through artist’s block?
Sometimes I like to drink coffee or tea. I listen to music and read books on photography and painting. This spurs my creativity. I take my camera along whenever I go on a trip or journey. Going for a walk also helps.
Who are your art heroes or current influences?
I am inspired by the painter, James Mallord William Turner and his misty scenes and cloud effects. Presently, I am reading books on Claude Monet. His compositions are great. The photographer, Bill Brandt’s book, “Perspective of Nudes” is a classic example of nudes. Michael Kenna is another photographer whose books I enjoy.
What is your typical studio day routine?
Once I get up in the morning, I listen to music on my headphones and read art books. Then I have breakfast. While reading, I will get ideas for photographs and collages. Once or twice a week I will copy and paste my photography images from my camera to the computer. A friend and I share a printer and he will print images for me for my portfolios.