Artist Statement

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A native of Memphis, Tennessee, Kelley Dallas is a fine art photographer based in Denver, Colorado. Her background in drawing and painting in her formative years influences her photographic practice, granting her a discerning eye for observing people and capturing the natural world. 

 

Kelley's move to Denver sparked a passion for exploring the Southwest, leading her to fall in love with both its craggy mountain peaks and its vast arid landscapes.

 

While her early work focused on her interest in international travel experiences, motherhood shifted her gaze closer to home. Moving away from staged portraiture, she embraced a documentary approach—using her daughter as a muse to capture the unposed, authentic essence of daily life. This pursuit of spontaneity led her to master iPhone photography, a tool she now utilizes for most of her landscape, people and travel work.

 

Kelley is also fascinated with aerial perspectives. As a FAA Part 107 Certified Pilot, she uses a drone to capture the unique exposed geology of the American Southwest. Upon reflection, she has always been fascinated by aerial views of nature and landscapes, and in particular the intimate and abstract visuals this perspective affords. Previously restricted to traditional aircraft like airplanes or helicopters, this perspective is now fully accessible through drones, opening up vast creative possibilities.

 

Driven by a profound connection to the landscapes she documents, Kelley stands firmly behind the preservation of public lands. Witnessing the overt, visible pressures currently threatening these open spaces, she has a strong desire to ensure they stay wild and protected. Through her imagery, she aims to remind viewers of the shared responsibility to protect these environments, transforming her unique visual perspective into a compelling call for conservation.

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