Today we’d like to introduce you to William Bossen
Hi William, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Growing up, I found solace and purpose in art amidst a world fraught with adversity. Economic hardship and a turbulent home life marked my early years, challenges that left deep imprints but also ignited a fierce resilience within me. Art became more than an escape; it was a sanctuary where I could transcend my circumstances and discover my authentic voice. This passion was a guiding light through a stormy youth, offering a refuge that would later shape my approach to living and creativity.
As I matured, photography emerged as a medium accessible to me, given the familial and socio-economic cultural influences I existed in, because of its practical vocational application. This choice allowed me to engage with the world around me and express my evolving perspectives. Beyond commercial work, which provided invaluable lessons in connecting with people and developing essential soft skills, photography became a way to capture the essence of moments and emotions. Each project, whether personal or professional, taught me the importance of empathy and communication, enriching my artistic practice and broadening my perception of the human experience.
Throughout my artistic journey, I have been fortunate to learn from a range of mentors whose guidance has profoundly shaped my approach to art. From my adolescent years to the present, their insights and encouragement have been invaluable. Whether during my time in Latin America or through various other artistic experiences, these mentors have helped me develop a nuanced perspective on creative expression. Their influence has helped to shape my understanding of art as a means of connection and communication, reinforcing its power to convey complex narratives and foster meaningful engagement.
Traveling to numerous countries offered me more than just a change of scenery; it was a profound immersion in diverse cultures that expanded my understanding and appreciation of the world. Each journey provided a canvas for me to engage with new environments, listen attentively to the stories of the people I encountered, and translate these experiences into rich creative expressions. These global adventures fueled my passion for storytelling and deepened my love for the world’s complexity and beauty, weaving together a more nuanced and expansive narrative in my work.
My practice has evolved into an interdisciplinary exploration, integrating various mediums such as photography, printmaking, video, and LiDAR scanning. Each technique has become a unique tool to probe the complex interplay between memory, identity, and existence. Through these diverse approaches, I seek to capture and document the fleeting beauty of transient moments and the intricate web of our shared experiences. This evolving process reflects my artistic growth and deepens my understanding of how art can reveal the often-hidden connections that shape our lives.
As a Graduate student now at the University of Houston, I am immersing myself in a dynamic environment that enhances my exploration of art’s role in society and its ability to drive social development. This academic journey provides me with the resources and insights needed to refine my practice and expand its reach. By integrating the skills and knowledge gained here, I aim to elevate my work’s impact, fostering a deeper connection between art and society. This experience is pivotal in shaping my ongoing commitment to using art as a catalyst for meaningful transformation and a profound engagement with the world.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Growing up, I was ensnared in the generational cycles of poverty and substance abuse that plagued my family. These cycles, deeply rooted and difficult to break, cast long shadows over my childhood. The constant struggle for survival and stability created an environment where dreams were often stifled, and hope felt like a distant luxury. Yet, even in these bleak moments, I found solace in art, a refuge where I could transcend my circumstances and imagine a different reality. This inner sanctuary became my lifeline, a place where I could nurture my creativity and glimpse a world beyond my immediate struggles.
The blue-collar work ethic that surrounded me was marked by a philosophically poor expression of life. Hard work was valued above all, but there was a pervasive fear of deviating from personal, professional, and geographic norms. This mindset, while instilling a strong sense of diligence, often discouraged ambition and creativity. The idea of pursuing a path in the arts seemed impractical and unattainable. I battled with the internal conflict of wanting to honor the work ethic instilled in me while yearning to break free from its limitations. It took immense courage to follow my passion for art, a journey fraught with doubt and resistance but ultimately rewarding.
Throughout my life, I have faced numerous familial challenges that demanded my attention and care. I had to withdraw from my studies multiple times to handle long-term family issues, including cancer, strokes, and taking custody of my infant niece from her unavailable and addicted parents. These responsibilities, while overwhelming at times, also strengthened my resolve and deepened my empathy. Balancing my personal aspirations with these familial obligations taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance. It was during these periods of intense responsibility that I realized the transformative power of art, not only as a personal escape but as a tool for healing and understanding.
In my youth and young adulthood, I struggled with exceptional weight gain, reaching 320 pounds at one point. This physical burden was accompanied by thoughts of inferiority and feeling unlovable, compounded by imposter syndrome that followed me into my late twenties. These internal battles were as challenging as the external obstacles I faced. The weight of these thoughts made it difficult to see my worth and potential. However, traveling and experiencing the world began to change my perspective. Each journey, each new culture, and each person I met helped me understand the beauty and diversity of life. These experiences were instrumental in my journey toward self-acceptance and finding reasons to love, to live, and to create.
The struggle to find reasons to love and live in and for oneself and the world has been a continuous journey. Overcoming these obstacles has been a process of learning and unlearning, of breaking free from the chains of my past, and embracing the limitless possibilities of my future. Art has been my guide, my voice, and my salvation. It has taught me to see beauty in the world and within myself, to connect deeply with others, and to understand the power of expression.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am proud that I have had the opportunity and manifested privilege to experience many cultures and places around the world. My work is an exploration of the human experience, blending photography, printmaking, video, and photogrammetry to uncover the intricate relationships between memory, identity, and existence. This journey has allowed me to see the world through various lenses, both literally and metaphorically, and to capture the essence of what it means to be human in diverse contexts.
One of my greatest joys is that I was able to become what I dreamed of being on the school playground: a photographer who travels the world. This path has provided me with a unique perspective on life, one that appreciates the beauty in transient moments and the interconnectedness of our stories. Each culture I immerse myself in, each place I visit, adds a new layer to my understanding and appreciation of the human condition.
I specialize in creating art that resonates on both personal and universal levels. Through my work, I aim to foster empathy and connection, inviting viewers to reflect on their own narratives. Whether capturing a fleeting moment in a photograph or documenting a space through photogrammetry, I strive to evoke a sense of shared humanity. This approach not only highlights the diversity of human experience but also underscores the common threads that bind us together.
My upbringing, shaped by overcoming significant obstacles and a continuous journey of self-discovery, imbues my art with a distinct perspective. Growing up in challenging circumstances, I learned the value of resilience and transformation, themes that are central to my work. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the world and my place within it, fueling my desire to connect with others through my creative expressions.
I am most proud of how my art reflects the genesis of happiness. Through my practice, I have learned to love the world and its myriad experiences. My travels and the diverse cultural influences I’ve encountered have enriched my life and my art, providing a greater perspective on what it means to be alive. This global outlook fuels my passion for storytelling and my desire to connect with others through my creative expressions.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
The journey to where I am today has been profoundly shaped by several key figures who have offered invaluable support and guidance. Among them, Darrell Peterson stands out as a significant mentor. Meeting Darrell in my late twenties, he became the first positive male role model in my life. His lessons in photography, life, and health were transformative, teaching me not only about the technical aspects of the craft but also about resilience and self-care. His influence extended far beyond the camera, helping me navigate personal challenges and inspiring a renewed sense of purpose.
Ms. Delaney, my high school English teacher, played a crucial role in helping me rediscover my creative voice. Before her guidance, my ability to express myself creatively had been dormant. Her encouragement and teaching methods unlocked a childlike sense of wonder and expression that had been overshadowed by the difficulties of my upbringing. Her impact was a pivotal moment in reigniting my passion for art and storytelling.
My mother, despite her own struggles, had been a cornerstone in my life, imparting lessons in love and perseverance. Her strength and capacity for unconditional love amidst her chaos, even in the face of adversity, was foundational in shaping my character and work ethic. Her influence continues to remind me of the importance of empathy and compassion in my creative endeavors.
Most recently, my wife, Deborah Rivera, has become a profound source of support and inspiration. Her encouragement and belief in my potential have been pivotal in pushing me to reach beyond my childhood aspirations. Deborah’s guidance and unwavering support have empowered me to channel my experiences and artistic practice into creating work that aims to positively affect a broader audience. Her influence has been instrumental in helping me envision how my art can provide hope and inspiration to others who face their own personal and familial challenges.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.brooksbossenstudio.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/williambossen/
