Regarding The Retina

My passion for visual storytelling runs deep. I’ve always been inspired by the ability to cultivate a narrative, set a tone, and create a world through an original lens. With that comes the opportunity to experiment with clothing, interesting props, and expressive poses. However, I’ve always been most inspired by the ability to play with color. Color is harmonic in the way it establishes a mood and guides a viewer’s interpretation. A vibrant red can provide a sense of rage or urgency, while an indigo blue can guide one to feel calm or stable.

I named this piece ‘Regarding The Retina’ as a way to acknowledge the creative relationship between the artistic eye and visual storytelling.

Much of my portfolio embraces vibrant minimalism as a way to get viewers to focus on fewer elements at a time. To think critically about the composition of the frame, the drape of the clothing, the mood expressed by the subject, and how all of these components coexist. The term ‘vibrant’ in vibrant minimalism reflects the bold use of color palettes often seen through my work. These palettes are often inspired by 70s interior design, African cinema, and 90s cartoons. The term ‘minimalism’ in vibrant minimalism represents the sleek simplicity often displayed through my lens. For me, storytelling is not about fitting as many elements as you can, but instead about evaluating a visual experience as a method to learn from and relate to.

As an artist, I’ve been fortunate enough to spend time in front of the camera as well as behind it. Being the photo maker and the muse has taught me to bring both worlds together in harmony. I’ve grown to become very intentional with certain elements such as color, using tones that represent a particular theme while recalling various emotions. All of the above combine to create an experience for viewers whether they can relate to it or not. It inspires many, teaches some, while it empowers others.

I read a strong quote from my friend, Anthony Prince Leslie, which read “it’s not about showing everything you can do, it’s about how your eye translates in everything you do.”

That quote inspired me to write this piece because I’ve always believed that visual translation sets you apart from the masses. Everyone is entitled to writing their own story, and within that story exists an original perspective that no one else can duplicate. Sourcing for inspiration is great, but referencing should only serve as a tool to build your OWN creative empire. Start today!

— Josef Adamu (June, 2021)

Photography by Jeremy Mitchell, Tyre Thwaites.