Bob Notley’s work playfully explores the absurdity of the everyday, our connection and perception of nature, and how this appears to us in a mediated way. Notley is fascinated in the disconnect to nature felt in modern life. His images reference the traditions of landscape photography as a pastime and critique the notion of what makes a good image.

His often futile attempts at recreating nature through models explore the human desire to search for authentic experience and investigates the existential nature of the human condition. The models reference the modeling of nature in contemporary life, found in parks, gardens and green spaces. These spaces reveal themselves to be devoid of meaning and connection to nature as a mere simulation.

ArtConnect asked the winning artists to share with us a glimpse into their creative life to get a sense of their personal inspiration and artistic process.

How did you get started as an artist?

My conceptual approach began during university where I studied Fine Art and has continued to develop since. I originally made paintings to explore notions of nature but I found the ideas in performance and site-specific work to be exciting and more relevant to me.

What are some of the central themes you pursue in your work?

The central themes in my work are nature, the everyday and the absurdity found in our experiences. I like the humour found when these elements interact.

Describe a typical day in the studio / wherever you make your work.

Most of my work is quite quick and opportunistic. I’m searching for locations, scenarios which would be of interest to my photography or a small site-specific installation. There are times when I’m making models in the studio but I would say the artwork exists in its location and interaction with that space.

What motivates you to make your art?

Making art for me is an extension of how I experience and understand the world around me. It's a metaphysical approach. I am motivated to learn how things behave and how the world is built.

What are you currently working on?

As it's currently spring, I am working on a project involving colors found in nature. I am making an installation involving blue objects which float above the ground like bluebells.

Anything else you want to add?

Thank you for choosing my submission, I’m very pleased you have enjoyed my work. 

See more of Bob Notley’s work

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