Europe 2014

On Tuesday evening, I will be at the Vancouver International Airport, heading back to Europe. A place that I promised to myself that I would return-- and for longer.

"Coliseum" by Sam Kaczur 2007 

It was 6 years ago that I went to Germany, Italy and Greece. Back then I was fully invested in my graphite and pencil art. I went there to be inspired by the architecture, the art and the history that I so loved. I had brought with me a trusty point and shoot camera to take reference images for future paintings and drawings. I was determined to document every moment while I was there. And I did. 1500+ images later and I was back in Canada. 

When I saw my family waiting for me at airport arrivals, it was my Dad who just looked at me and knew that I had left my heart back in Europe.  I did. I felt like I got a taste of a place that had so many hidden mysteries left for me to discover. 

During that trip, I realized that photography was more than just a way to document my travel experiences, it was an art form as well. The statues changed as I moved around them, the angle that I shot the cathedrals made them come alive. I became obsessed with telling a story through those images. I realized the mystery of the camera, the power of creating images starting with just click of a button and the infinite possibilities photography had to bring my ideas to light.

"The clay skull, the rosary and the pentacle" by Sam Kaczur 2009

I continued to create pencil art but slowly, my heart was drawn to the curious object of the camera. I went out and started taking photographs, self portraits and eventually I started asking friends. Before going to Europe I would have told you that photography was not an interest of mine, I saw no future in it for me. Without Europe, I wouldn't have discovered an art form that I feel at home with.

Now, I am returning to Europe to have a longer conversation with her and the art that inspired me so much. It is a trip to not only document more inspiration, but a trip of soul searching-- a creative soul searching. I want to see how these experiences will influence my future work, the plans I have laid out. The next 38 days will be a roller coaster of love, of art, of inspiration and of endless possibilities. 

I am looking forward to sharing my journey with you! 

All the best,

Sam Kaczur

"Frankfurt, Germany" by Sam Kaczur 2008