William Cannon

Concepts of Humanity and Commonality

Photography was invented not in its conception, but rather in its application.
Many struggled with categorizing it, was it to be considered a tool of science or a new
approach to artistic expression. Arguably one of the first examples of artistic expression
with the use of a camera was Hippolyte Bayards Self Portrait As a Drowned Man. This
was quite possibly the first truly conceptualized image to be taken. It served as a
statement in regards to how he felt about his nation neglecting his work in developing
light sensitive materials. Bayard would set an example for other photographers and their
work in conceptualization. It was the first time anyone had approached photography with
the notion that it should say something with a premeditated concept. Perhaps the most
impressive aspect of Bayards conceptualization was that he used his camera to express
very personal feelings of neglect and irrelevancy. This exhibit aims to invoke thought
about aspects of humanity and the human condition.
Conceptualization, in essence, is simply the practice of approaching your
photography with a preconceived idea. In this exhibit you will see images captured by
photographers regarding a variety of topics. Despite the variety, each image relates to
each other through basic ideas of humanity, culture, and history. Whether its through an
emotion evoked by the image or the context regarding the artists approach to taking the
image. I challenge you, the viewer, to ask what the artists personal influence was when
developing their concept. As well as provoke thought regarding the cultural and historical
contexts that influenced them and their resulting concepts. This approach to photography
has surpassed other movement in its command of my attention due to its connection to
creativity and expression. For me, this approach is the most powerful form of

William Cannon
communication in photography. It is my hope that you will leave my exhibit with an
appreciation of the power of conceptualization and strong feelings connecting you to the
humanity that you and those around you possess.