Artists of the Boro Calendar

November's "Shadowgraphs," created by Michele Keller in her studio at home, is a digital cyanotype, a way of “drawing with light,” says Michele. The blue color is symbolic of cyanotypes and is a distinctive feature; the print’s shade of cyan blue is a result of its exposure to ultraviolet light.

Digital cyanotypes are one of her ongoing projects, documenting natural elements in different seasons. Michele has been making this type of art since the late 90’s, and continues to explore new ways to create images on paper with light.

Inspiration comes in many forms, mostly by the creative process itself and “internal emotions,” says Michele, whose roots run deep in the darkroom and the hands-on process of photography. “I translate those emotions through the use of color, value, and contrast in my work.” She does most of her current work using a digital camera and modifying the images in post-production.

Shadowgraphs was framed for the October Gallery show at the Glen Rock Library and is for sale, “but I will most likely hang it in my house after I pick it up,” she says.

Michele is an art teacher at Westwood Regional High School in Washington Township. Over the past 10 years, she has created personal projects while teaching Digital Photography as well as Jewelry & Metalsmithing to her students.

A lifelong resident of Glen Rock, now living here with hubby Josh and raising their son, Michele designed the logo to commemorate the Boro's 125th anniversary. She is also an event/wedding and portrait/family photographer and skilled in repairing/restringing beaded necklaces and bracelets.

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