Edward West

Statement:

Born and raised in New York City, Edward West began photographing when he was just out of high school and he has continued as a practicing artist ever since. While he works in photography, collage and drawings, as well as on conceptual and collaborative projects, the relationship between the figure/text and its context, both literally and culturally, has remained a consistent focus in his work throughout his career.

West's work is concerned with the relationship of visual elements, but its ultimate source is a relationship with another person or community. The desire is always to enter the mental space of those being imaged—to demonstrate the gravity of how thought informs gesture.

His current creative projects include ongoing visual research on issues of race and representation in South Africa, Cuba and the People's Republic of China as well as projects closer to his home communities.

West resides in Ann Arbor and Chicago with his wife, Kate.