William Lemke

"I choose to work in black and white because it encourages both myself and the viewer to concentrate on texture, tonality, and the emotional qualities of light. My ultimate goal is to inspire viewers to develop a deep appreciation for nature and a desire to preserve and protect our environment. "

Black and white photography makes a personal and emotional connection with the viewer, taking them back to a place where they spent time or triggering a memory of a significant period in their life. It encourages the viewer to look more carefully at the details, like shadows and texture, to understand the mood. Black and white photographs evoke wonder and curiosity.

Lemke's images are created using either a 4"x5" or 8"x10" film camera. He uses traditional photographic darkroom processes to create silver gelatin prints. Each print is individually exposed and hand processed following archival standards set forth by Ansel Adams. All prints are photographed, developed, mounted, matted, and framed by the artist to maintain museum standards.

Lemke earned his associate's degree at Milwaukee Area Technical College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, then enhanced his education through taking and teaching courses at the Milwaukee Center for Photography and Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design. He also participated in a Friends of Photography workshop in Carmel, California, taught by Ansel Adams.