Ten Questions to the Artist – Monte Nagler
Monthly, C2C Gallery hosts exhibits for artists whose work we find interesting and new to the Tri-Cities. This month we are displaying the photographic work of Monte Nagler.
Monte is a noted writer, lecturer and teacher of photography. He has conducted many classes and seminars throughout the world. Not only has he written a popular newspaper column, but he is also the author of six highly successful photography books. Frequently, he is called upon to jury competitions and to speak on photography topics on local radio and television stations.
His photographs, which have won numerous worldwide, national & international recognitions, are found in many private, public and art museum collections. Galleries, art dealers, interior designers, and publishing companies throughout the United States and Canada represent his photography.
Monte is a University of Michigan Engineering graduate. He worked for Ford Motor Company directly out of college and has many tales regarding “specialty” designs in the auto industry. When Monte was 39, he became bored with his professional life and began reconsidering his love of taking pictures. He registered for an Ansel Adams course. Ansel became Monte’s friend and mentor for the remainder of Ansel’s life. Monte Nagler answers our
“Ten Questions to the Artist”
What turns you on creatively, spiritually, or emotionally?
I get turned on by seeing the stunning beauty of the world around me from a majestic view of a powerful landscape to the intimacy and pattern of a single flower. Mother Nature can’t be beat!
Do you have an influence or theme that guides your work?
What guides my work is the strong desire to share the wonderful things that I see through my camera and get people to appreciate things a little more. In my healthcare division, I get a tremendous satisfaction knowing my photographs can help patients get through a difficult procedure.
What profession other, than your own, would you like to attempt?
I think two other professions would be really cool: an archeologist or an astronaut.
What profession would you not like to do?
I would not want to be an undertaker…..what a “grave” experience.
Who are your favorite artists?
Favorite artists: photographers Ansel Adams and Yousuf Karshand painters Monet and Van Gogh.
What is your favorite tool used to create your work?
Other than my mind and heart, my favorite “tool” is my Canon 5D Mark 3.
What is your favorite word?
“passion”
What is your least favorite word?
“hate”
Who is your favorite musician?
I like all music (except rap) but I’ve always admired Dolly Parton for her many talents….she’s a class act.
How much formal education have you received? Related to your craft.
My education consists of an undergraduate degree in engineering and a masters of business administration, both from U of M.
A quote from Monte’s website, that I love:
“We positively impact people’s lives through the power and appreciation of art.”
