The Art Of Fish-Picking

Coreyarnold3

An image of Eric Nyhammer from Corey Arnold’s series on fish-work in the Bering Sea. A bit from an over-written press release for a show in Portland:

These photographs capture moments from Arnold’s grueling annual retreats to the Bering Sea and arctic Norway. With scenes of boat life so vivid that some shots can induce fear or seasickness, the artist’s perspective also reveals the tender soulfulness of a fisherman’s extended life at sea. His skillful compositions depict the simultaneous bravery, toil, humor and gumption that “fish-work” demands. Yet the series also illuminates the aesthetic sublimity that can only be experienced, ultimately, by those willing to risk their lives where the sea breaks its back.