Interview
Alec Halstead
Alec Halstead’s life has been a series of battles, from the frontlines of war to the daily skirmishes of civilian life. But through it all, his camera has been his steadfast companion, a source of solace amidst the chaos. Discover the Captivating Artistry of Hudson Valley's Own Veteran Artist! Looking to infuse your office space with the vibrant essence of the Hudson Valley or New York City? Seeking to adorn your walls with captivating local scenery that speaks volumes? Look no further than the mesmerizing collection of a locally renowned artist and photographer, a true gem nestled in our very own Hudson Valley! This artist, not only a masterful creator but also a distinguished veteran, brings a unique perspective to every photograph and snapshot.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I first found my love of photography and discovered my photographer’s eye at the age of 11. In high school I took a photography course that really opened my eyes to the world of photography. Shortly after graduation, I joined the Navy and bought my first 35 mm camera while training to become a jet engine mechanic and operator. It didn’t take long for my peers to recognize my obvious talent as a photographer.
I served our country for 23 years in the Navy and the Air Force. Because of my skill, I was chosen to be the command photographer at every duty station during my career. My assignments were varied and unique: change-of-command ceremonies, documentation of military operations, coverage of foreign installations and dignitaries. Over the years, I photographed Presidents of the United States, shot on deck of a ship during a hurricane, and captured countless scenes.
I first found my love of photography and discovered my photographer’s eye at the age of 11. In high school I took a photography course that really opened my eyes to the world of photography. Shortly after graduation, I joined the Navy and bought my first 35mm camera while training to become a jet engine mechanic and operator. It didn’t take long for my peers to recognize my obvious talent as a photographer.
While still in the military, I was published in several outlets, including Muscle Mustangs and Fast Fords, The Stewart Flier, The Guard Times, and the Poughkeepsie Journal. I retired from the military in 2003 as a Chief Petty Officer. Shortly after retiring, I was hired by Con Edison in New York City and made the transition from film to digital photography. To further develop my craft, I graduated from the New York Institute of Photography in 2014.
My photographs have appeared in publications such as Hudson Valley and Southern Steel magazines, and I’ve won several amateur awards over the years. One of my pictures is held in the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“That there is so much beauty in this world. So much of it most people never get to see. I have been blessed to see so much of it through the life I have lived. I guess I see more than most because I have seen so much of the ugliness the world has to offer because of being a vet. I don’t want my to comment on social or political issues because so much of the ugliness in the world is directly correlated to social and political issues”
Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?
“Both. My camera is with me at all times. I’ll be out on the motorcycle or driving with my wife and I’ll see something that is just begging to be photographed. On the other hand, I have planned and taken trips for the sole purpose of taking pictures”
What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?
“I shoot with a Canon R5 and a Canon EOS RP as a backup. I use adobe photoshop and Adobe Lightroom and Luminar Neo to edit my work. My work is available for print in paper, canvas, aluminum and acrylic”
What does your art mean to you?
“It shuts my mind off. Taking a great shot is exhilarating yet at the same time very calming especially if it’s something epically beautiful.”
What’s your favourite artwork and why?
“I can’t say that I have a favorite artwork. I just have a great appreciation for seeing something in any form of artwork that moves my soul. There is one of my own photos that this question makes me think of. I have a photo of something unexplainable. It’s for lack of a better term. A photo of a UFO. I have sent it to several places for explanation and it always comes back as unexplainable. The photo can make ones thoughts run very deep.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“I have had several exhibitions. In 2024, I had an exhibition of my Bannermans castle photos and Hudson Valley photos at the Bannerman Gallery in Beacon NY. I have had two exhibitions at the Howland Cultural center also Beacon NY and another as artist of the month of The Pleasant Valley library in Pleasant Valley NY.”
