Anything Washington D.C.

Jean-Pierre’s interest in photography goes back to the 1970’s in conjunction with his desire to record a solo crossing of the United States by bicycle.  Influenced by Galen Rowell, his camera has since been an essential part of his gear whether sea kayaking in Alaska, trekking in Patagonia, or backpacking in West Virginia’s Monongahela National Forest.  His subjects have expanded from an original focus on nature and landscapes, to now also include abstracts, architecture, macro, contemplative, and street photography – almost anything where a strong visual and emotional message is formed by shapes, lines, or contrast in color or tones.

 After growing up on Long Island, Jean-Pierre received his undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin, and went on to earn a master’s degree from Duke University and a doctorate from the University of Delaware in disciplines related to international affairs, natural resource economics, and marine policy.  This academic training prepared him for a career in international ocean affairs and employment with the Department of State and currently with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.  He also served thirty years in the Navy.

Jean-Pierre switched from film to digital about 4 years ago, and his last film experience was with a large format (4×5) camera.  He enjoyed large format because it forced him to slow down, to concentrate, and really think what he was trying to create (all the while looking at an image on the ground glass that was up-side down and reversed).  His work is greatly influenced from working with Freeman Patterson, Joseph Miller,  Joe Cameron, and Sam Abell, all of whom have helped him to improve his ability to “see” and to better incorporate principles visual design in his images.

He is a member of the North Bethesda Camera Club.  His work has been part of numerous group exhibitions in the Washington, D.C. area, including Washington Printmakers Gallery, Waverly Street Gallery, the Photoworks Gallery, Nature Visions, Herndon ArtSpace, Joe Miller’s annual abstract exhibits, and the Lowe House Building in Annapolis.

Jean-Pierre provided us with a reference list of photography books, and other creativity-related resources that he values:  JP-Photo-Resources.pdf