Shannon McClatchey - Photographer

He who works with his hands is a laborer.
He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman.
He who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist.

Francis of Assisi

My current project goes indoors and explores the work of people who are immersed in analog processes for their livelihood.  In our increasingly digital culture there are still some crafts that haven’t completely been taken over by computer means.  For example, the letterpress artist who often uses machines that are over 100 years old or a DJ who may not use a turntable these days, but still requires tactile precision in honing a beat.  There are others such as an Arabic calligrapher or a fashion designer cutting out patterns and creating the next look with a sewing machine. 

I came to be interested in this non–digital world because I often still use traditional darkroom techniques. I’m frequently asked why I continue to work in a darkroom when I could easily eschew chemicals for less evasive Photoshop and digital printing.  The answer is: I enjoy working with my hands.  And I know the work that goes into developing negatives and creating a print is something that can never fully be replicated in the digital world.