Meet Megan DeSoto

Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan DeSoto.

Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
Although I had an early interest in drawing and painting, my path led me in another direction. It wasn’t until after I got out of the military and became a mother that I decided to take the plunge and chase after my dream of becoming an artist. I enrolled at a local community college and took an introductory photography class and quickly realized that I had made the right choice. The professor opened my eyes to the possibilities of how photography can be so much more than a beautiful image.

I was hooked. Fast forward a few years and I was at the University of Texas at Arlington receiving my Bachelors of Fine Art degree in photography and studio art. When I was younger, a career in fine art was improbable. A graduate degree seemed completely out of the question, but I knew that I was not finished. I pushed forward and applied to the Master of Fine Art program at the University of North Texas in which I will graduate in the spring of 2019. Throughout this journey, I have been surrounded by incredibly talented, brilliant women (and men!) who have advocated for me, challenged me in ways I never expected, and celebrated every milestone. Their mentorship has shaped me into the creative that I am today and has enabled me to see that my photographs can help create a voice for other women and mothers.

Please tell us about your art.

I should start by saying that I am a mother. This part of who I am is deeply ingrained in my self-identity and my art practice. I call my photographs, object portraiture. Traditional portraiture can be defined as” A painting, drawing, photograph, or engraving of a person, especially one depicting only the face or head and shoulders.” Using this understanding of portraits, I photograph my objects and still lives with the same intimacy and singular attention, all the while listening to the way in which these objects need to be seen. This is done by being flexible in my understanding of the final composition and using an element of play while working in the studio.

In order to relay experiences that I have encountered, I utilize objects to communicate meaning both with the subject matter, lighting reminiscent of editorial shoots, and television screen backdrops. Each of these objects is carefully chosen to do one of two things: to relay an emotion or act of defiance that references the struggles that women feel towards themselves and their roles in society or a celebration and embracing of the role. These objects include: mannequins, florals, porcelain dolls, household items and clothing.

The use of the television screen speaks to the influence that media has on women and how they should be visually valued. The bold color and lighting choices reference the magazine ads, social media posts, and movies that drive the female perceived roles. Each piece is titled with a hashtag, a nod to the online presence that weeps into reality. The titles are chosen from a reference within the imagery but also trending hashtags. The intention of the work is to be beautiful while create uneasiness, to leave the viewer with more questions than answers. Because this pressure to meet beauty standards, workplace and home equality, and equal voice is felt with every woman I have met, I am compelled to share this with others. It is through visual language and open conversation that I feel change can be made.

What do you think about conditions for artists today? Has life become easier or harder for artists in recent years? What can cities like ours do to encourage and help art and artists thrive?
I think that conditions for artists have changed in many ways, there are many improvements. Specifically, I think that because of our online communities, artists can reach clients, galleries and opportunities to collaborate outside of their local circles. This means of networking, marketing and connecting across the world happens much more quickly than in previous generations.

That said, the consumption of images on a daily basis can be dangerous for artists as they fight for a living wage using their craft. I also believe there are many more avenues for creatives to have successful careers in which they can remain a part of their artistic communities and be creative every day. Part of what we thrive on is this ability to think abstractly and being pushed creatively. Any opportunity that a community can involve artists is a step in the right direction. Local businesses that include local artists in their decor are supporting artists, as well as corporate businesses.

How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My first solo exhibition is located at Elm Street Studio in Keller Texas, it’s titled “#Thisislife” and will be on exhibit from August 29th through October 26th. There is an opening reception on Saturday September 22nd from 6 to 8pm. I will also have a solo exhibition at UNT’s University Union Gallery from November 2 through 16th. There is a solo show in Dallas in 2019 currently in the works, details to be announced at a later date. If you’re interested in following me online, I’m on Instagram @megandesoto or through my website: www.megandesoto.com.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.megandesoto.com
• Phone: 972-832-9925
• Email: megan@megandesoto.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megandesoto/

Image Credit:
Portrait: Debbie Conn
Photographs: Megan DeSoto

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