Henrieke I. Strecker
I was was born in Freiburg, Germany at the foot of the Black Forest. My interest on photography began by experimenting making photograms with simple photo paper and light. Almost two decades ago, I had built my own pinhole cameras. My intention is to reveal the essence of the subjects and of time itself with this method, more completely than can be done in an isolated moment of short exposure time. I also try to blur the distinction that separates photography and painting, by combining the two in my work. In so doing, my work might opens more questions than answers. I continue to experiment with photography and alternative printing techniques such as Cyanotype, Van Dyke Brown, Printing-Out Paper, and Solar Plate Etching. I have exhibited my work in Germany, Italy, Albania, Lofoten Island, Norway, and currently I live within a nature preserve in Westerwald, Germany. I work with cyanotypes because of my interest in simplicity. The basic ingredients of this antique process appear uncomplicated: the watercolor paper, the hand applied solution, a negative, and the light of the sun. One does not need high-tech instruments for creating beautiful images. I further enhance each finished print with essences of plants or pigments, all gifts of nature. In addition, the texture and character of handmade paper, as a surface for the cyanotype, complements the process. The quest for simplicity of materials and directness in action, presents the greatest challenge for direct expression.