We escaped to Southwest Harbor, Maine this past weekend for a cozy October adventure. While much of the quaint coastal area was winding down for the season, we managed to enjoy a beautiful hike, some lovely meals, and classic Maine merriment.

One particular highlight was the discovery of Jeffery Becton’s work in Shaw Jewelry, a stop recommended by a friend. There were a few of Jeffery’s works hanging in the gallery that sincerely captivated me, to include the piece directly below, mounted to aluminum and then framed simply in a white gallery frame. I found it incredibly striking — its long linear format, the manipulated nature of the combined scenes — decidedly traditional and timeless, (unmistakably Maine or marine?) then met with subtle visual disruption and confusion. It was provoking in the best way.

Photography is one of my favorite mediums for artwork. I especially love how it can often provide a juxtaposition to a more formal space, especially if framed in a specific fashion.

Below, Jeffery’s Artist Statement, as well as a preview of some of his work for your viewing pleasure (my personal favorites). For more, I encourage you to visit his website here.

“Since 1990 I have worked in the medium of digital montage — Combining primarily elements of photography as well as painting, drawing, and scanned materials, the techniques I use foster and give form to intriguing ambiguities, reexamining the boundaries of mixed media and creating altered realities that merge into images rich in symbolism both personal and archetypal. It is not my intention to school the viewer or place before them a fully resolved work that is clear in message, but rather to invite or draw them into an emotional connection, a recognition and unfolding of their own inner experience and understanding. Something akin to finding a unique feeling or emotion that is truly their own. That is the completion of the work.”