BIO Daniel Remer was born in London, England, but is now based in Israel. He was drawn to photography at a very early age, working mainly in black and white. In his late teens, he migrated from photography to filmmaking and studied at The London Film School. After graduating with honors, Remer secured employment with entertainment genius Jim Henson and worked on several high-profile movies and television shows, both in the UK and the USA. It was many years later, during the Covid pandemic, that Remer’s passion for the still image was rekindled and he returned to his first love - photography. Remer’s work is heavily influenced by the early metaphysical and surrealist painters. The images that he creates are captured exclusively by means of a photographic technique called light painting that he learned directly from master light painter Harold Ross. Using this process, Remer has developed his own unique visual language which is garnering him awards and recognition.
ARTIST STATEMENT My work focuses on existential issues which I express in still-life compositions. Although I have always loved the work of the Surrealists, I don’t consider my work to be surreal. I would say that my work bares a closer affinity to that forerunner of Surrealism, known as Metaphysical art. Whereas the Surrealists were preoccupied with dream images, the Metaphysical artists were focused on the symbolism of everyday objects. By precise arrangement and juxtaposition of objects and materials, I charge my compositions with symbolism and meaning.
Often I begin with an image in my mind and then search and source the required objects and materials needed to create the image. Sometimes, I may come across a certain object or material that inspires me to create a specific image. Either way, it usually takes me days or sometimes weeks to arrange the composition before I am ready to photograph it. I place and position each element within a hairsbreadth of where I envision it to be. Every crease in fabric, or twist in rope, is intentional. There are no happy accidents, everything is deliberate.
One of the things I love about the genre of still life photography is, never having to compromise my vision. Working with inanimate objects allows complete control and total freedom. I am not dependent on anything. I capture the image using digital medium format equipment, together with a photographic technique known as ‘light painting’. This technique produces really rich colors and detailed textures. This technique is as intrinsic to my work as the subject matter itself. The coalition of the genre of still life, and this unique technique, enables me to give full expression to my inner world.