5 questions with Keith Davis Young

Posted: February 8th, 2010 | Author: paul paper | Filed under: Photography | 1 Comment »

1. Two truths and a lie about you, please

I live in Austin,TX
My bulldog’s name is Moose
I’m a vegan

2. Where did you find all these nice places that so often emerge in your photographs?

A lot of the images I have shot are not far from any of us. I feel like we all pass a lot of oddities in our daily life that go unnoticed and that we take for granted. The majority of my subject matter has been in my home state of Texas. It’s a large, awesome venue to peruse. A lot of my work originates from travel or strange places I’ve found myself in.

3. You take a lot of pictures of cars and gas stations, which is pretty American. Do you consider yourself an American photographer more than simply referring to your nationality?

A lot of my older work has a strong Americana feel to it, but as you can see in my recent work it starts to take on a different tone. I started to explore more of an environmental approach. I have been trying to tell a story or document something that pulls my attention one way or other. Most of my work has undertones from my personal influences.

4. Tell us a defining moment in your career

I worked in advertising as an art director for two years before stepping away. I was ready for something new and challenging (creatively). When I broke away and started a design shop called Boxing Club with some friends of mine, I took on some new directions as an artist and person. My mindset had become more focused on progression and the intent to create good work. In order to do so, I explored another medium I had not touched in years – photography. From there on, a lot of things seemed to come together.

5. Who should we interview next?

That’s a tough question. I would throw out some of my friends and influences, but there really are too many to name
off. I don’t know this person directly, but I love her work…I’d be interested to read an interview with Margaret Durow, I suppose.

More works by Keith Davis Young.

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