Today we’d like to introduce you to Cameron Derby.
Cameron, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I’m a freelance artist, photographer, and sketch instructor originally from Akron, Ohio. Growing up under an artistic roof, I’ve been drawing since I was little. Raised by a painter/graphic designer and creative art director I’ve always been surrounded by creativity.
After graduating Columbia College Chicago in 2012 for Photography, I’ve been living on the west coast pursing my freelance career! I’ve always had an interest in people and a passion for portraiture. Chicago’s atmosphere and diversity were what inspired me to start doing photographic documentary work, fine art portraiture, and collaborate with more artists. Color, culture and people will always be an inspiring force behind my work whether it be through photography or drawings.
I also have a love for teaching drawing and sketching to kids and teens, and I currently teach at Studio H Fine Art in Irvine, CA!
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
Most of my artwork and photography is portraiture. Using graphite, colored pencil, and sometimes selective color, I really enjoy capturing the personality and soul of a person or animal on paper. My art is very detail orientated, I try to include every little hair and reflection that I can. I think it helps bring them to life!
I’ve always loved dogs and also worked with them for the past 4 years at several pet hotels, which is where the majority of my dog portraits come from. In my photography, I like to photograph a variety of people from all walks of life and with different styles. My documentary work follows and portrays people usually close to me. I hope when people view my documentaries they genuinely feel more connected with my subjects.
More recently I’ve been expanding my work, creating different series of young characters. These characters are vibrant, unique groups of kids that are inspired by all the different kinds of people out there. I’m also collaborating with an amazing artist and owner of Peace of Art Gallery in Bloomingdale, IL, Ginger Peach Tree. We’re excited to be creating a multi-media portrait series that’s a mixture of her paintings and my portraits. So, whether it’s through art or photography, I just simply enjoy capturing the beauty and uniqueness of my subjects and being able to share that with other people.
What would you recommend to an artist new to the city, or to art, in terms of meeting and connecting with other artists and creatives?
My advice for other artists is to take any opportunity that you’re able to. Take part in as many shows, exhibitions, and events that you can, and try to take any opportunity since you don’t know what it can bring! Showing your work leads to meeting other artists and many more people and is one of the best ways to network and stay connected.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
You can see my fine art at: www.cameronsart.com and my photography at: www.cameronderby.com. This is also where you can find updates on upcoming shows and events!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.cameronsart.com and www.cameronderby.com
- Instagram: @cameronderby_photo @cameron_derby
- Facebook: @cameronderbyphoto
Image Credit:
Ron McKinley
Ginger Peach Tree / Jen Mroz
Getting in touch: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
