This is a portrait I recently did of my uncle-in-law Jon...

This is a portrait I recently did of my uncle-in-law Jon Erickson.
A ‘retired’ teacher, Jon plays, makes and repairs guitars. He also creates some excellent and interesting neo-industrial/folk art, one that appeals really well to a nostalgia for early boot-strap Americana. These creatures are some of his recent creations.
I spent a good amount of time with Jon before and during our shoot. It was interesting because I think we both share similar tendencies toward our work. If we want to try something new and different, we’re going to do it, despite the learning curve involved. He shares a sort of curiosity or enthusiasm for too many things, which can be a blessing and a curse. One I know well.
Jon is very warm and polite, traits prevalent in small Midwest towns. However, he and his work both also present a subversive playfulness. There is a hint of a classic rebelliousness below the surface - fitting, I’d say, that we listened to John Prine radio throughout the shoot.  
It was a pleasure to shoot Jon.
Find him on Facebook if you want to buy some work. (Jon J Erickson)

Posted in: Conceptual Photography