10 Questions with Woodridge Library Artist Peter Bosy

Artist Peter Bosy's work will be on display at the throughout February. I asked him 10 questions about his experience in photography and his collection.

What is the most meaningful photo you've ever taken?

I took a black and white portrait in the studio of my daughter when she was 10 months old and captured a magical moment that's hard to explain.

What drove you to pursue photography?

As an undergraduate at UIC, my interest was in photorealism, or drawing objects to look like a photo. In taking photos to develop the drawing, I realized that I enjoyed the discipline of photography itself and moved from drawing and painting to photography.

Who is your favorite photographer?

Irving Penn is my favorite because of his approach to his subject matter -- very direct and simplified. His work has been an inspiration to me.

How is shooting fine art different than shooting events and portraits?

Events and portraits capture a moment in time, while fine art involves personal interpretation and often allows more time to study and work with the chosen subject matter.

What is the most memorable event you've photographed?

I had the opportunity to shoot famous pop artist Andy Warhol at a book signing when I was a student.

What advice would you give someone who wants to pursue a career in photography?

Learn the tools -- know the camera features, study lighting and its affect on your subject. Today's environment demands knowledge of technology, but visual sensitivity and passion are essential.

Why should we go see your collection this month at the Woodridge Public Library?

I'm proud to share my vision with people who want to experience a new way of seeing ordinary objects in an extraordinary way. Some of these photos have won awards in juried art shows, so local residents have an opportunity to share in prized work from another local resident.

What would you like people to know about these collections before they view them?

Viewers will be in for a visual treat! I hope viewers will find the work pleasing, and it will provoke the question, "How was this done?"

What inspired the three portfolios on display -- Floral, Translucent and Human Form?

While in New York City with my family a few years ago, I caught a glimpse of my daughter behind a diffused glass panel door and was immediately struck by how her silhouette was affected by the dispersing light behind her. Also while there, I began to notice other store displays using back-lighting and returned home inspired to develop my own approach to diffused lighting.

What do you hope people who view your work will leave with?

I hope that viewers will enjoy and be changed by the experience. Additionally, I hope they will appreciate the importance of lighting so that it influences their future viewing of photography.

Be sure to visit Peter Bosy's collection on display at the Woodridge Public Library this month. For more information, visit Peter Bosy's website.