Today we’d like to introduce you to Karly Fish.
Karly, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I was raised with my four siblings in the Southeastern corner of Wisconsin, but after spending 10+ hours in a darkroom in Racine between classes, I decided it was time to start commuting to Chicago to study photography at Columbia College. Any outlet of self-expression has always been a priority in my life, so four hours on the train each day, 16 hours of work on the weekend, and another 16 hours of work on campus between classes was worth it to me.
I am now done with my studies and living in Chicago, but am still trying to balance my source of income with time to create and participate in Chicago’s artistic community. I am currently motivated by the opportunities that I have already had, and the support system I have in my family, friends, and former professors. My time within the Columbia photo department allowed me to build a strong foundation for myself as a young artist. While I was there, I was also able to intern within the MoCP, which opened my eyes to so many different artists and their unique styles. After graduation, I worked as a Curatorial and Collections intern within the AIC’s Photo department. Nothing is more inspiring than handling the work of artists that define your medium. It was also so important to see what it takes to make their exhibitions happen. Everything has all happened so quickly, and I’m patiently but excitedly waiting to see what other opportunities are to come.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I process who I am through the creation of images. I specifically like to approach aspects of my life that I am still learning to understand. Lately, these aspects have been my relationship with my own body and my closest relationships with others in my life. It is through these relationships that I understand most deeply what it means to be human. I truly believe that knowing yourself inwardly – your own needs, fears, weaknesses, etc. allows for a greater ability to connect with and support others. This is the philosophy that backs my process. The product can vary but I do consider the majority of my work to be a self- portrait.
How do you think about success, as an artist, and what do quality do you feel is most helpful?
To me, there are three different types of successes. The first occurs at the birth of a new, clear, possible idea. The second success is bringing that idea to its final form, and the third is putting what you’ve made out in the world for others to see and connect with (and not just on Instagram, it’s worth more than that).
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
My work can currently be seen on my website and on my Instagram – @karlyfish. I am always willing to make prints upon request and interested in collaboration as well as taking part in exhibitions.
Contact Info:
- Website: karlyfish.com
- Email: karlyhfish@gmail.com
- Instagram: karlyfish
Image Credit:
Karly Fish
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