Intro to Visual Art: Photography - Gregory Crewdson

I've been asked a number of people over the last few months to start writing blogs about the photographers or artists I talk about. Most of the time when talking about pictures, whom ever I'm talking to never really understands who or what I'm talking about. Sure, some people know about photography, whether it be fine art or commercial but usually to a certain degree. Though I do try and read up on whatever my friends into, I can never grasp the entire picture. Take for example when hanging out with Jason Tobin, Dax Phelan or Glen Chin - these guys are emerced in film knowledge simply because they have to be. Its their job to know a reference to a film or a style of a director. I, and I thought I was well versed in film, don't know that much. My ankles are in but if I want to really know something I want to be up to my eyeballs in whatever I'm interested in.
But to return to the purpose of this blog series is to introduce and even reveal some photographers, artists and movements you may not even know about. Today, I'm going to talk about someone on the top of the photographic pyramid (mine anyway), Gregory Crewdson.

By chance a few weeks ago I watched a show late night on NowTV (channel VOOM) that introduced Crewdson's work. I've been studying his work ever since art school. The work is incredibly complex and deeply layered. I've always had a eerie feel when looking at his work. He always includes details that go far beyond a single frame usually to the point where you have look past the initial glance. I've interpreted the work as exploration of the psyche in an environmental portrait composition. In past literature and interviews Crewdson talked about himself as a young boy trying to listen in on his father - who was a psycho-analysis - and his patients. Of course he never admits to ever hearing any of the sessions, but the idea of making this effort translates into the work.
Rather than say too much or give you my impression, I’ll leave you to your own devises. Happy learning and stay tuned to future episodes.
* note. I realize that the pictures I've linked are not appearing in they're supposed to be. If you're interested in look at more of Crewdson's work google 'gregory crewdson' or click on this link for the pictures i've included in this entry. Top image link, bottom image link