Choices by Brian Forbes
Using the camera as one of his mediums, Brian Forbes CEO of Urban Arts Enterprises, captures images that spark controversy with their powerful symbolism.
As a native Chicagoan raised on the south side of the city Brian Forbes personifies the title, “Jack of All Trades”, having obtained several certifications and licenses in various fields. His interest in photography began when he started taking pictures for fun and as a hobby. Having evolved into what he refers too as a “Photoartist”, the evolution of his work came when he was able to create a stir through his controversial and highly popular best selling photographic print called “Choices”, depicting a Bible laying flat with a stack of money and a 9mm handgun on top.
While at the prestigious art event in Philadelphia deemed “October Gallery” Philadelphia’s International Art Expo, the photo created a buzz where the best of the best in the art world debated over the message of the controversial photo. He witnessed the effect the image had on people from all walks of life. It provided him with a stronger sense of purpose with further insight and clarity about the image he captured. From there his photography went from being a passion to an obsession.
The subtlety of his black and white photos magnify the complexity of the issues he tackles through “Choices” and other images such as “The Switch” which shows a transference of power through a gun and a bible depending on where you stand and “Russian Roulette” showing a .357 magnum hand gun with an open chamber loaded with a condom. “Its difficult not to speak to people through my work, the world has so many ills,”Forbes Says. “Its a necessity to reach out to my community and confront the things that plague our souls”.
Forbes powerful images break the silence revealing harsh realities, opening the dialogue on issues that strangle
our existence and weigh on the human condition. “I’m trying to reach into peoples hearts and minds to invoke thought or provide insight” Forbes says.