January, 2024 CAVARTS Spotlight Feature: Arthur Fager
We’re proud to highlight the creative voices that make the CAVARTS community a special, safe haven of artistry and connection.
Meet Arthur Fager, an Army Veteran and Photographer whose work blends skill, passion, and perspective. In this feature, we dive into Arthur’s process, inspiration, and what creating means to him.
Name:
Arthur Fager
Artist Moniker:
The Redleg Photographer
Branch of Service:
Army
Bio:
I am a Native of Southern Illinois and have come back to it after spending my time in service. I was retired after 24 years of total service. I am a husband, father, combat veteran, a retired Major, and a Grandpa and the last title is the one I appreciate the most.
Website:
www.redlegphotographyllc.com
Title of Piece:
Real Colorado
Medium of Piece:
Photography
Meaning behind piece:
This is just an old county road in rural Colorado. It makes me wonder if the people living on farms like this appreciate the beauty they have in their own backyard! It also makes me look in my own backyard to see what I might be taking for granted.
Piece photos:
What inspires you to create art?
When at war you see a lot of ugly things. My cameras let me go looking for beautiful things. It is great therapy. The added bonus is many of the camouflage, stalking, recon and hunting traits I needed for my time with the Infantry & Field Artillery are useful in going and getting the shot at some of my more elusive subjects in my wildlife photography.
What part of your life has benefited the most from your creative pursuits?
The calm it provides, the excitement when I get that choice shot and the satisfaction that I did a good job when a photo is appreciated.
Is it important for you to challenge yourself in your art? Tell us why or why not!
With photography it is a constant level of challenge to get that better shot. There are many times you will miss the shot, not get the lighting right, not get a clear image. The only way to overcome that is to challenge yourself to learn from your mistakes.
What is your process or ritual to get your creativity flowing?
The only process for me is to get out in nature with the camera. The photos will not come to you with nature and wildlife photos. I guess it could if you are a portrait photographer, and I have done some of that.
What does CAVARTS mean to you?
It is a great place to interact with peers and see what Art they are making. It is a joy to see the variety of styles and skills my brothers and sisters have. I love posting and seeing others post. I have several people on here that it would be fun to sit and have a cup of coffee and discuss our Art.
Our monthly theme for January is New Year, New Possibilities. How will you be celebrating?
By chasing new locations and subjects for my photographs, Currently I have 3 varieties of Owls that have been spotted relatively close to me. and that I have never photographed, Snowy Owls, Great Horned and Short Eared Owls. I promise to post them if I get a good photo of any of them.
What words of inspiration do you have for your fellow CAVARTists?
Art is one of the cheapest Therapies you can find. It can give you an outlet for all kinds of Emotions. But in the end it leaves you with satisfaction and joy and needs to be shared.
