Some artists find meaning and delight in painting objects of a bygone era. Objects that are often overlooked or discarded. This is true for artist Scott Yelonek who, for his solo show Western Exposure at Altamira Fine Art, focuses on the “visual language of photography—vintage cameras, flash bulbs, film boxes, lenses and the beautiful machinery that once stood between the photographer and the landscape,” says Altamira owner, Jason Williams.
“Foundationally, my work focuses on themes of memory and the lives these old cameras have quietly witnessed over time,” the artist explains. “I’ve always been interested in the stories carried within these objects and the way photography preserves moments that might otherwise fade.”
Camera Line-Up, oil on canvas, 27 x 66 in.This particular collection leans more heavily into memories tied to the American West, especially national parks. A lot of Yelonek’s inspiration came from reflecting on travel, landscapes and the experience of being connected to nature. “There’s a ruggedness and sense of history in the Western landscape that felt naturally aligned with these vintage cameras,” Yelonek says.
He continues, “One thing I explored more deeply in this series was surface texture and material detail. I became especially interested in capturing elements like worn leather, weathered woodgrain and aged metal finishes. Those details help reinforce ideas of time, use and history while also grounding the work in the character of the West. I wanted the surfaces themselves to feel lived in, much like the cameras I paint.”
In one show highlight, Camera Line-Up, we find five vintage cameras depicted in phenomenal detail. “This piece gave me an opportunity to focus purely on the beauty and individuality of the cameras themselves,” Yelonek notes. “Without additional surrounding elements, the viewer can spend more time noticing the distinct shapes, craftsmanship and personality of each object.”
Yelonek also layered-in some of the small, hidden details that often appear throughout his work. As an animal lover, he sometimes incorporates tiny paw prints into the textures of the painting. He also replaces serial numbers with meaningful dates and numbers connected to family and personal memories.
Samoca 35 III, oil on canvas, 36 x 30 in.
In Samoca 35 III, Yelonek depicts a camera he found traveling through the Northwest. “When I picked it up, I noticed the owner’s name and the year 1954 etched into the back leather,” he recalls. “It was a reminder that these objects have passed through real hands and real lives over many decades. I started thinking about where it had traveled, what moments it may have captured and the person who once carried it. I wanted the painting to hold some of that history and quiet mystery.”
To view the entire collection, head to Altamira Fine Art in Jackson, Wyoming, from July 7 through 21. A reception will be held July 10, from 5 to 7 p.m. —
Altamira Fine Art 172 Center Street • Jackson, WY 83001 (307) 739-4700 • www.altamiraart.com
Powered by Froala Editor
