Distortion: Mike Bogner

The word distortion can be used in many circumstances. In music, adding a effect to the instrument can alter and distort the sound of the instrument. Food, drugs and mind altering substances can distort ones perspective on reality while people on their own doing can distort the truth in to achieving what they want. Many artist utilize this effect with masterful skill. In a time of political uncertainty and global disputes, the 1930's seems to stand out when talking about artists distorting reality.

M.C Escher, a famous dutch graphic artist whom captivated the eyes and imaginations of many since the 1930's. Many of his etchings and drawings that amaze us so much are the ones that play with architecture and perspectives, creating the illusion of reality. This distortion allows us to wonder what could be.

Andre Kertesz utilized distortion in his work, most notably in his work "Distortions" from 1933. This soon to be known master of photojournalism utilizes the distortion effects of mirrors to create stunning nude portraits. He would continue to experiment and produce perspective altered imagery up until his death in 1985.


Over time, the world changes and so does our technology. With the aid of photoshop, and a keen imagination, the possibilities of creating stunning distorted artwork are endless. A German photographer by the name of Ralf Brueck took the concept of distortion and creates his own digitally rendered works of art. This evolving morphing of better technology brings a downfall. Since the the last World War, is the weaponry we use in war any better? Do we distort our own realities with much distractions that we become blind to see the real reality?

In attempts to further truly know myself as a person and create my own artwork, I continue to reflect upon the masters from before. Exploring the "what if's?" and "could be's" can spark a start to something great. This exploration will help grow a non-verbal language that which lays inside the imagery. Using the simple effect of distortion could captivate the minds of many and change the world for the better (or worse).

Movement: Mike Bogner

For have been living in Denver for the last two years, I've grown accustomed to the Denver and Colorado way of life and spirit. I love the fact that there is something to do, go see, or watch every weekend. This past weekend wasn't an exception either.

This weekend I was able to experience my second USA Pro Cycling Challenge come through Denver. Though this year, I was able to ride around and capture the day behind the lens of my camera. Nicknamed "America's Race", the seven stage race the covers 683 miles of Colorado beautiful backyard in seven consecutive days, starting in Durango and ending in Denver. It is a grueling and demanding race which makes it the biggest cycling events in our country a huge spectator sport. It's like our own Tour de France.

The race no doubt was grueling, with it climbing over two mountains both of which are over 12,000 feet in elevation. The race came down to the final stage with many riders all close within contention of taking the overall win. Even the final stage, the riders finished within seconds of each other. Up until the very end of the day was this truly "anyones race". It was Christian Vande Velde, a USA rider for team Garmin-Sharp-Baracuda who took the overall win for all stages and came in second for the final stage. The stage winner, Taylor Phinney also USA for team BMC, completed the 9.5 mile time trial loop around the city in 17'25"50.  Phinney rode the course at an average speed of 32.7 miles per hour.

Overall the race was excitement for all to enjoy. If you missed this years, be sure to keep a look out for next years and come to Colorado for it. You wont be disappointed. For more information and recap of this weeks events, be sure to check out the USA Pro Cycling Challenge website.

And to see the rest of my photos, be sure to visit my Flickr 2012 USA Pro Challenge photo set.

Color: Mike Bogner

     Colors can express many, many things. Moods, holidays, pride for a team, etc. Blue would be with the feeling down, yellow means scared, grey and black with death. How did each of these colors become connected with that feeling?
     It turns out that there is a whole science and mystery to color theory. I stumbled across some articles after hearing that people with depression see a grayer world. A lot of this makes sense. When I lived in Buffalo, NY, during the winter months, depression in people seemed higher being trapped in doors due to the blizzards. The skies always seemed to be cloudy and grey. The people would seem less active and misserable. Maybe these elements would make us see an even more gray landscape. Much of my art back then would reflect this.
     Now a days I bask in the sun, playing in the sunny wonderful playground we call Colorado. It's very difficult to stay inactive here. Everything I see is so vibrant and alive. Looking back at photos I've captured just this summer, I notice I add a bit more saturation or vibrance to the colors, trying to convey how I saw the scene. The ability of understanding colors and how our eyes perceive it can be a powerful tool in a photographers tool chest. Many photographers in the past have utilized color to express a feeling that is intended for the audience to feel.

Moods and Color

Decay: Mike Bogner

     It isn't uncommon to see a bicycle, locked to a bike rack or pole with no wheels or totally rusted over like it has been abandoned. Who's bike is this? If no one claims this decaying heap of metal, can I? Many questions can be asked with little instantaneous answers.

     In researching on bike theft, not in attempts to become a bike thief but to better understand and prevent, I came across some videos made by Casey Neistat and his brother. I enjoy many of his videos, but this one, The Ethics of Stealing Bikes left me still a bit unclear. Why was that one ok to steal? It was still locked with two locks. How is one to really know if it is abandoned or not. I guess one could leave a note to ask or watch the bike. But that leads to more questions as to how long? 

     The point I'm getting at is that any bike is someones bike, whether it is mine or not. By just saying it is "no bodies bike" doesn't justify it. To me a locked up bike means it is someones, whether or not how much of the bike is still connected to it.

Abstract: Mike Bogner

    The world is a complex, abstract, chaotic and mysterious wonder. Where we end up and how we get there can be total stroke of luck or a test of ones strength and patience. The fixed gear bike is a simple machine powered by my legs, lungs and mind. As I ride, I escape into a simple, carefree world, just as it was when I was a child. The hills can be daunting and seem almost impossible to conquer but as I pedal, my inertia continues to carry me forward. The feeling in my legs from the climb is uncomfortable yet, temporary. The tightness in my muscles and joints ease up and this task of pedaling no longer seems like a burden. It drives me further and faster, ever getting stronger. I begin drift into a state of meditation. The abstract problems of my current world no longer seem so complex. I am able to see more clear. I come to a stop atop a hill overlooking the city and take in the beauty. Almost two hours have passed and I have covered over 30 miles. Time to go to work. The day seems less difficult.