Interview
Alexander Gubski
Alex Gubski is a Calgary-based landscape and nature photographer with over 15 years of experience. He specializes in creating luxury, limited-edition, large-format photographic prints. Alex manages every step of the process himself - from capturing images to printing, mounting, framing, and shipping - ensuring meticulous attention to detail. His work is known for its vibrant colors and clarity, achieved through the use of premium materials and techniques. Alex's art has been featured in various galleries and has garnered acclaim for its ability to bring the beauty of nature into homes and offices.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“My journey into the art world began with a deep appreciation for nature and an innate desire to capture its essence through photography. I was drawn to landscapes early on, fascinated by the way light interacts with the environment to create mesmerizing moments. Over the years, my passion evolved into a pursuit of fine art photography, where I could combine technical expertise with creative vision. With a background in photography spanning over 15 years, I'm still honing my skills in capturing grand, sweeping landscapes and intricate details of nature. My approach is highly meticulous - I manage every step of the creative process, from scouting locations to post-processing and printing. This hands-on involvement ensures that each piece meets my vision and delivers an immersive experience to the viewer.”
What inspires you?
“I find inspiration in the natural world, particularly in the interplay of light and landscape. There’s something incredibly powerful about witnessing a mountain peak illuminated by the first rays of sunrise or a tranquil river reflecting the golden hues of autumn. These moments, often fleeting, inspire me to create images that preserve their beauty and convey a sense of wonder. Beyond nature, I am inspired by the emotional connection that art can foster. My goal is to evoke feelings of serenity, awe, and introspection, allowing viewers to experience a moment of stillness amid their busy lives. The ability of a single image to transport someone to another place and evoke deep emotions is what keeps me passionate about my work.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“My work primarily revolves around themes of tranquility, grandeur, and the profound beauty of nature. I strive to capture landscapes in a way that highlights their majesty while maintaining an intimate connection with the viewer. The underlying message in my photography is the importance of appreciating and preserving the natural world. Through my images, I want to remind people of the breathtaking beauty that surrounds us and the need to protect these landscapes for future generations. My work serves as an invitation to slow down, immerse oneself in the scene, and find a sense of peace within nature’s vast and ever-changing canvas.”
How would you describe your work?
“My work is a blend of fine art photography and technical precision, resulting in visually striking, large-format prints that capture the grandeur of nature. I focus on high-definition imagery that brings out the finest details, from the intricate textures of a leaf to the expansive view of a mountain range. Each piece is carefully crafted using premium materials, ensuring not only artistic excellence but also longevity. I use advanced printing techniques, acrylic face-mounting and dye sublimation on metal, which enhance the depth and vibrancy of the images, creating a near three-dimensional effect. The result is artwork that transforms any space, drawing viewers into the scene as if they were standing there in person.”
Which artists influence you most?
“I have always admired photographers who possess a deep understanding of light and composition - masters of landscape photography such as Ansel Adams and Peter Lik. Their ability to capture the raw beauty of nature and translate it into evocative imagery has been a significant influence on my own artistic journey. Beyond photography, I draw inspiration from fine art painters like Albert Bierstadt and August Wilhelm Leu, who sought to depict the sublime power of nature. Their emphasis on dramatic lighting, vast landscapes, and emotional depth mirrors my own approach to visual storytelling.”
“I find inspiration in the natural world, particularly in the interplay of light and landscape.”
What is your creative process like?
“My creative process begins long before I press the shutter button. It starts with extensive research and location scouting, ensuring that I am in the right place at the right time to capture the perfect moment. When in the field, I take a patient approach whenever I have such opportunity, often waiting hours - or even days - for the ideal lighting and atmospheric conditions. Capturing nature at its most breathtaking requires persistence, as no two moments are ever the same. Post-processing is another crucial part of my workflow. I carefully refine each image to enhance its natural beauty while staying true to the authenticity of the scene. This meticulous attention to detail continues into the printing stage, where I oversee every aspect of production to ensure the final artwork meets my highest standards.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“An artist’s role is to inspire, provoke thought, and offer a fresh perspective on the world. In the case of photography, the ability to capture and preserve moments in time gives us a unique opportunity to document the world in ways that words alone cannot express. As society becomes increasingly digital, art is evolving beyond traditional galleries into immersive online and interactive experiences. Artists now have more ways than ever to share their work with a global audience, fostering deeper connections and broader discussions. Through photography, I hope to continue bridging the gap between art and nature, offering people an opportunity to pause and appreciate the world around them.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“Over the years, my work has been featured in various fine art galleries and exhibitions, receiving recognition for its vivid detail and emotional impact. Some of the most rewarding experiences have been seeing my prints displayed in settings where they can truly transform a space - whether in luxury homes, corporate offices, or public galleries. One of my favorites is the Calgary Stampede Western Showcase exhibition. Each exhibition serves as an opportunity to connect with art enthusiasts, collectors, and fellow creatives. The ability to share the stories behind my images and hear how they resonate with others is one of the most fulfilling aspects of being an artist.”
