Artist Statement
Michael-Peter Kane Kleven
I see myself as a conceptual
artist. I strive through photography to express objectivity but with subtle comment on form, irony, pattern, shade, light
or raw beauty. Many of my subjects are non-human: forms found in nature, buildings, or objects. Occasionally I will
photograph myself, those near to me, or people at public events. I am very conscious, perhaps too conscious, of individual
boundaries. I explore my own and others so as better to relate our public persona. As an Actor I see that we all “act,"
place on ourselves a mask and this stands in place of our unknowable self. Sort of like a poker chip describes a relative
value.
I enjoy technical aspects
of photography, camera operation and post production editing. For me photography is both a social and personal act. I see
myself as an actor in the environment and around those individuals I whose image I capture. My interest in film production
leads me to consider story and thematic elements imbedded within the frame.
As an individual who suffers
from a pain related disability, I often consider the therapeutic aspects of photography and creativity. Photography like writing
is an act that can largely be controlled by the individual. The world is your canvas so long as you have the time and access
to the tools.
I would like to thank my
mother Sandy Kleven who has encouraged me in this form of expression after acting and dance on stage became more difficult.
