Working exclusively in black-and-white, Gary Wagner’s striking photos pare dramatic landscapes down to their essential shapes, lines, and tones. Based in Northern California, he captures shorelines, forests, and mountains using digital cameras.
In his series Iceland Forces of Nature, Wagner explores the rugged fjords, waterfalls, and black sand beaches of the island nation. Sunlight illuminating dense clouds are set in stark contrast to distant hills or deep water.
Wagner has been making photos for more than four decades. “Artistically, I try to show my vision of land, sea, and light, while paying respect to the natural order and beauty of the earth,” the artist says.
In addition to teaching at the university level, Wagner has released several books about digital photography techniques and bodies of work, including this series and explorations of the Pacific Northwest and Yosemite and Death Valley National Parks.
Find books and prints on the artist’s website and Instagram.
