Short Bio
As a recognized architectural photographer, my photography has been featured in numerous academic books and articles in the fields of architecture and material and visual cultures of the Muslim world. As an artist, my art is very much the opposite of my photography: not contained by predetermined lines, functions, and space, painting has allowed for fluid abstraction and oft-times imaginary serenity.
Statement
I appreciate the impact of art and space in all media and manifestations. Art should awaken senses with any number of responses: respite, reflection, engagement, debate, and discussion. Art is transformative. Art tells us a complex story beyond the surface study informing us of the socioeconomic, political, and cultural conditions of the time, providing a framework for understanding the demand for art and architecture with historical specificity while simultaneously providing a much-needed space for individual expression. Art provides a lens to examine the past as well as the present moment to recognize the links and interdependencies that have formed, and continue to form, world cultures.
Furthermore, producing art allows me to address complex battle lines against hypocrisy and grave social injustices witnessed now or known for time eternal. Yes, my work may cause outrage, I often hope it does. I want people to engage, to respond, to express emotions and opinions, whether they agree with mine or not. When not fanciful, abstract, or imaginative, my art is not about making the viewer comfortable. Often, quite the opposite is my goal.
Biography
Born in Canada, Sharon C. Smith currently resides on the Northshore of Massachusetts; however, she does not call any one country home. Perhaps the result of international upbringing, migrations, or simply wanderlust, Smith has traveled extensively, living and/or working in California, New York, France, Italy, and Qatar, to name a few. Holding a doctorate in art and architectural history with an emphasis on Pan-Mediterranean studies (Smith’s dissertation explored Early Modern Italy and Egypt), her adventures are often driven by work and research. However, these experiences and encounters, along with a strong sense of equality and justice--or lack thereof--have also served as the basis for her fledgling painting career. A long-time academic documentary photographer of architecture, Smith has now incorporated painting into her repertoire. Smith’s work seeks inspiration from what she has studied, seen, smelled, and touched: reminiscences of interconnected and intertwined knowledge gained over time and space.
