As the Community Arts Center & Gallery celebrated its 1st Anniversary last month, the local organization is continuing their vision of promoting and supporting artists through a monthly rotating art exhibit.
This month, the featured artist at the Community Arts Center & Gallery is Kameron Orr, a wildlife photographer who lives in Wrightwood, with a unique passion for capturing the elusive attraction of reptiles and snakes. Through his lens, Kameron not only showcases their striking features but also advocates for their ecological importance, changing perceptions about these fascinating animals.
Artist Bio
Growing up I was always fascinated with reptiles and amphibians. As a kid I was glued to Animal Planet watching Steve Irwin and Jeff Corwin chase snakes, lizards, and all other forms of critters around the world hoping one day maybe I could do something like that. But like many childlike dreams, that idea faded up until 10 years ago when I was driving down a dirt road in Barstow and saw a sidewinder crossing. That little snake sparked in me that childhood wonder I was missing for so long. Since that day, I’ve found myself traveling around the United States, and part of the world, with my wife in search of the most misunderstood animals. I have a love and passion for all forms of wildlife photography but my heart and my lens always find a way to focus on our scaly friends.
Tell us about your artwork. (ex: what materials do you use and what style is your work?)
I’m a wildlife photographer that focuses on reptiles and amphibians. My work consists of 1 camera 3 lenses and one flash. I try to keep it simple because hiking around for days looking for snakes gets exhausting when your carrying a ton of equipment on your back.
When did you know that you wanted to become an artist?
Ever since I was young I loved movies and photography I even built my career around the audio-visual field, I learned to love and appreciate photography from my mother who was also a photographer. With her guidance and passion, I found myself loving the medium. I really started focusing on photography about ten years ago and the rest is history.
Where do you find inspiration for your artwork?
I find inspiration from nature itself. I also find inspiration from educating people on animals that most people are afraid of. I love hearing “I used to be afraid of snakes till I saw your work.” It’s music to my ears. Also I couldn’t imagine doing any of this without my wonderful wife. She’s my inspiration for everything I do and shoot.
Who are your artistic heroes?
My artistic hero is my mother. She taught me my love for photography and I owe her everything.
When you’re not creating art what do you enjoy doing?
Most of my hobbies include traveling around looking for animals with my wife and when we have down time watching movies together.
Is there any advice you would give to aspiring artists, hoping to be featured in a gallery someday?
Don’t ever give up, don’t feel ashamed for taking inspiration from others, and always create for yourself. If you aren’t doing it because you love it then there is no reason for you to do it. Also don’t ever feel pressured to change your style because of social media or pressure from others. Find what you like to create and become excellent at it.
The community is invited to attend Kameron’s art exhibit opening on Saturday, Oct. 5 from 6pm-8pm at the Community Arts Center & Gallery, located at 6045 Park Dr in Wrightwood. His artistic photographs which highlight the intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and diverse species of reptiles, will be on display and available for purchase throughout the month of October.
Follow Kameron Orr on social media where he posts his adventures and art as he photographs creatures from the mountains, deserts, and beyond. Instagram @That_guy_Kameron and on Facebook at Kameron Orr Photography
