Artist Statement

There are many reasons why I choose to make photographs. A desire to document life’s experiences, to artistically express myself, and to bring awareness to conservation issues are important influences on what I photograph and how I interpret it. If there is a unifying theme to my subjects it is their elemental mystery and beauty which I find appealing. It is this essence that I attempt to reveal in a sensitive and evocative style which hopefully stimulates a personal response from the viewer.

However, I suspect there is some more fundamental reason that I photograph. For as long as I can remember I have been fascinated by light and all its many nuances. The play of light across a landscape, the refracted light through a cresting wave, the ethereal reflected light from human skin, the catch light from a wild animal’s eye, and the Vermeer like chiaroscuro effect created by sunlight streaming through a window… all I find mesmerizing. Simply put, I am compelled by light.

—Rusty Yates

Biography

Rusty Yates is a nationally recognized photographer whose passion for exploring the natural world is the source of much of his inspiration. A former featured artist in Texas Highways and Texas Parks and Wildlife Magazine, he has been the recipient of National ADDY and International Magazine Association awards. His work is held in private collections throughout the United States and has appeared in numerous publications, exhibits, and galleries. He was the lead photographer for the highly acclaimed book, “Seasons at Selah.”
Since childhood Rusty has been an avid explorer of the natural environment, which is the source of much of his inspiration. His interest in photography began while managing a working cattle ranch in East Texas and the need for informational and promotional images of the herd. He soon became passionate about making art through the photographic process and has traveled the world in its pursuit.
Rusty and his wife Ellen reside in the Texas Hill Country and often collaborate on a variety of endeavors. In addition to art, they have a sincere commitment to land stewardship and open space preservation. Rusty is currently the Chairman and President of Bamberger Ranch Preserve, an internationally acclaimed 501C-3 foundation whose mission is land conservation and public educational outreach.