Emotions, Symbols, and Aesthetics

Photographs by Chris Cook

New York City photographer Chris Cook talks about growing up in Brooklyn and how he is able to tell the untold stories of his people through photography.

New York City, New York

What is your history as a photographer?

For the past seven years, I have called myself a "native tourist". I'm a Brooklyn native who has the confidence of a local and an eye of a tourist. I started to create photographs through skateboarding to hold on to memories. Eventually, I continued to photograph more and was to reveal the adventure discovered through the daily life of the inner workings of the city. Referencing a lineage of documentary photographers such as Roy Decarava, Gordon Parks, and Jamel Shabazz, I capture images in my routines, later discovering the narratives represented when the photographs are either digitally printed or in the darkroom.

How did you start getting into shooting portraits?

I started getting into portraits because I enjoy meeting new people and learning how to bring an interesting trait out of someone's portraiture.

Who are your subjects? Why do they inspire you?

The subjects I tend to capture tend to be things that express emotions, symbols, and are aesthetically pleasing which certain people might not ever consider. I feel things are set up in the universe for a particular reason and I happen to be quick enough to capture it.

How has growing up in Brooklyn shaped you as an artist?

Growing up in Brooklyn shaped me as an artist because I understand to the value of tools I use. I was fortunate enough to have taken one to two art classes but a lot of things weren't available. I made best use of what tools I have to use and pass knowledge to others as I go.

In your Artist's Bio, it's mentioned "His visual explorations of his work reflect upon his voice and point of view as a young African American professional creating artwork that evokes a message..." Why is your perspective as an African American important? How does it influence your view on the world? What IS your message overall?

My perspective as an African American is important because I believe I can show stories within my community that other photographers cannot capture. I feel that the photo industry is a white male-dominated world and not a lot of people of color are able to be represented within it. I feel my work is important because I'm able to tell untold stories of my own people and those who live in my surroundings.

What have been some of your best accomplishments thus far as a photographer?

Some of my best accomplishments were for Cultural Center of Cape Cod – Apertures 2018 Awards, Con Artist Collective Group Show in Lower East Side, NY, and currently in Art Fellowship from Bronx Museum of the Arts.

What's next for you?

Currently working on documenting the Black Lives Matter Movement and looking forward to collaborating on fashion editorials in the future. I will be traveling to Art Basel this year if COVID-19 hasn't canceled the art fairs for this year.