In 2014, I was struck head-on by a car while cycling and experienced a temporary setback. My brief loss of ability left me with few coping strategies. My doctor recommended I take up something physical (when the time was right), something spiritual (being outdoors), and something artistic. Having spent the majority of my schooling between the library and a pool, I never had a chance to develop my artistic side. So in lieu of my ability to think, move, or process the world around me, I sought creative outlets that allowed me to retain my sense of self without compromising my recovery.
I was initially inspired by a photography project called Stormtroopers 365 [link] that chronicled two Star Wars stormtrooper action figures and their interaction with the human world. So with $10 and a half-hearted attempt at doing “art,” I picked up two toy dolls and began posing them around Providence. Eventually, I embraced the creative process and began to refine my eye for a concept and shot. Since recovering, friends have enabled my endeavor by gifting me dolls and toy dinosaurs and I have found I most enjoy photographing these toys interacting with their environment in State and National Parks. Feel free to follow along on Instagram @BackcountryBarbz [link]or visit my About page [link].
In addition to working with toys, I also enjoy capturing adventure portraits of my very fluffy dog, Rhody. He enjoys catching tennis balls, trips to the local education farm, napping in the sun.
Adam Spierer 