Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Becky Behar. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Becky, appreciate you joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
After my oldest child left for college, I anticipated the approaching empty nest with a desire to redefine myself beyond the role of a stay-at-home parent. Exploring various interests, I followed my instinct towards activities that had inspired me in my youth. Given the significant evolution in photography over the past two decades, I enrolled in a beginner’s photography class. Upon completing the course, I realized that photography could turn into a profound form of visual expression. I was hooked.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My photography revolves around personal narratives exploring themes of motherhood, domesticity, and intergenerational connections. I meticulously manipulate light and use color to evoke specific moods while delicately balancing elements of revelation and concealment within my compositions. I focus primarily on my children, particularly my daughter. My current project involves juxtaposing images of her with those of my mother, to engage in a conversation about traditions across generations. I also create still lifes to provide context, theme, and symbolism that buttress my narratives. Inspired by varied art forms including 17th-century Dutch painters like Vermeer and contemporary photographers, I also pay attention to the tangible aspects of my work, ensuring each print and frame contributes to the story’s integrity. I enjoy discussing my work with viewers of all ages and exhibiting in galleries across the US and internationally. I sell my work to collectors and recently achieved a milestone of having a piece acquired by a museum.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
Life often necessitates unexpected pivots, compelling us to adapt to new circumstances. Amidst the upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic, I explored several workshops online and there, I met a local bespoke bootmaker named Sarah. While client engagements aren’t my usual practice, I seized the opportunity to collaborate with her, aiming to elevate her business by creating still lifes and close-ups for her website, Saboteuse.com. Each pair of boots presents a time constraint, fostering quicker creative thinking. The close-ups also challenged me to enhance my technical skills. Our partnership flourished, as my images contributed to Sarah’s growing professional recognition, including features in a documentary and opening doors to grants and exhibitions. Embracing the new and unexpected has not only enriched my artistic journey but also empowered me to support the growth of fellow creatives like Sarah.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
The creative journey defies notions of a conventional 9-to-5 routine; it’s a lifestyle. Inspiration strikes at odd hours – in the shower, while listening to a yoga teacher explain a move, watching a movie, or wandering through a museum. And it’s not just about creating; there’s a whole world of marketing, networking, and managing that goes on behind the scenes. Balancing these demands with personal relationships necessitates conscious effort, occasionally leading to challenges in maintaining social connections. However, the support of friends and family remains invaluable in navigating the multifaceted landscape of my creative life.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.beckybehar.com
- Instagram: @beckybehar
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/becky.behar.mekler
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/becky-behar-75bb49139/