We were lucky to catch up with Trevor Schmidt recently and have shared our conversation below.

Trevor, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

My path to becoming an artist is rather unusual. I spent the first four decades of my life believing that I lacked any artistic ability. While I always appreciated and respected the work of creatives, I had no inkling that I would or could become one myself. At the start of 2020, I received mental health diagnoses of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder — both as a result of my career in crime analysis. Ten years of daily exposure to human cruelty and suffering had impacted me deeply, to the point I felt flooded with darkness and unable to see the light of good in the world. I challenged myself to embrace a new activity to promote mindfulness, and thankfully chose photography. I dusted off an old Nikon that, for years, had sat unused in the back of a drawer and committed myself to learning the basics of picture-taking. Within several months, I was completely addicted to capturing and creating fine-art photography pieces. Thankfully, I soon found my own distinct styles using abstract techniques. Long exposures, multiple exposures, and intentional camera movements allow me to create atypical art with the goal of promoting peace of mind for my viewers.

I also quickly recognized the healing, calming power of art. It continues to be the single-most impactful therapy for my mental health recovery.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a self-taught abstract photographer. I live and work on Canada’s west coast, where my art is inspired by and pays tribute to the coastal waters and rainforests of the Pacific Northwest.

If there exists a more calming place on this Earth than the ocean’s edge, or a vibrant rainforest, I haven’t yet found it.
The sight and sound of waves moving in response to our sun and moon provide profound comfort, reflected again in the experience of a mindful forest walk. I capture and share my images with the hope that they, too, provide solace for the viewer.

I use my camera as a paintbrush, transforming the environment before me into works which further reveal the artistry within the terrestrial experience. All my photographs are created in-camera at the time of exposure.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Much of my artwork touches on my own mental health injuries. I hope that openly and publicly depicting my own health challenges can reduce stigma and challenge others to do the same without fear.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

I spent most of my adult life working in various government agencies, providing crime analysis support in criminal intelligence investigations. I was passionate and fulfilled until the mental health toll of this career manifested itself in the forms of depression and PTSD. Discovering my long-dormant artistic capabilities, and allowing art to become a daily part of my life, have been so very impactful. While I hope and plan to return to my government work when my health permits, art will forever remain a vital and regular part of my self.

Contact Info:

• Website: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trevor.schmidt.artist/