JOHN STRAUB

MEDIUM

Photography

ARTIST STATEMENT

“”I ask myself, ‘Can I create a true photograph that only exists in my mind… one that opens a space where the image becomes reality and a question for those who look?’ They wonder, ‘How?’”

ARTIST BIO

John Straub is a photographer who strives to create thought provoking images, including both documentary and experimental automotive work, characterized by bold texture, vivid color, and a strong sense of depth. He describes his work as slightly raw and imbued with attitude.

Beginning in his teens Straub photographed surfing scenes using film, while working in his father’s dark room. There, he learned to manipulate images by modifying negatives through cutting, overlaying, and sandwiching techniques, as well as dodging and burning. Today, although he uses a digital camera and computer-based post processing, his creative approach remains fundamentally similar.

Straub finds storytelling through photography to be a magical process, producing images with depth and uniqueness. His compositions begin in his imagination and are completed by combining multiple camera captures into a single composite image, giving each piece its own personality and spirit. Elements – whether a neon sign, image prop, or a tree – are photographed using outdoor lighting to match the intended scene. No “AI” used; all imagery is captured through his lens, reflecting the title of his work, Fused Realities, where the combined elements never truly existed together.

His goal is to draw the viewers into the fine details of each piece, encouraging deeper exploration beyond the first glance. These details foster emotional connections and invite viewers to immerse themselves fully. His work often celebrates memories of his film photography days when life felt less rushed.

Straub has presented his award-winning work in numerous exhibitions, including the Palm Springs Art Museum, Laguna Beach Festival of Arts, Gallery by the Sea Carmel, Forest & Ocean Gallery, Laguna Art-A-Fair, The San Diego Museum of Art Artist Guild, and the San Diego Art Institute in Balboa Park. His work has also appeared in the automotive section of “The New York Times,” “Road and Track Magazine,” and “Nine over Nine,” along with features and covers of several other automotive magazines. He is currently a member of the San Diego Museum of Art Artist Guild, and the Motor Press Guild.