Interview

Sep 15

Cheryl Gillerman

Cheryl’s love of photography began in the 1980s. She studied graphic design and studio photography and developed film in a darkroom at Ray College of Design in Chicago, Illinois. After college, Cheryl worked eight years as the lead graphic designer at The Instrumentalist Magazine Company. When her family moved to Maryland for her husband’s career, she took up running. After completing several marathons she sought a new passion, picked up a camera, and began creating art through photography. She enjoys producing original studio photo creations and capturing compelling images of people. Photography provides her a visual means of expression. Exhibitions and awards she has entered and received:

Mid-Atlantic Photo Visions 2024 — People’s Choice Award; PSA Photographic Society of America 2024 — Silver Medal
14th Annual Joseph Miller Abstract Photography Exhibit 2025 — Accepted
Mid-Atlantic Photo Visions 2025 — Best in Studio Photography

Black White & Light- Cheryl Gillerman.Jpg

What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?

“My love of photography took off in the 1980’s, I was studying graphic design and studio photography was my favorite class. We developed film in a dark room and did work creating commercial type photos. During those days, one of my strong inspirations was Andy Warhol especially his creative ability to make art out of simple things. Later in my life, I joined a camera club and my love of photography has grown stronger. I enjoy the clubs photo activities and competitions. Working with other photographers really sharpens your eye. I am known for my studio art photography, I was recognized for award-winning works such as ‘Time Never Stands Still,’ and ‘Black and White and Light.’”

Adv-Time Never Stands Still-Cheryl Gillerman.jpg

What inspires you?

“I’m inspired to create photographs that make you feel something and maybe tell you a story. My inspiration comes from many places family and friends, new camera or studio equipment, a song on the radio and special memories of people I love all inspire me to create. I am a member of many camera clubs. All the fantastic photographers there challenge and inspire me. I get inspired almost everywhere I go. My brain is always creating. I’m a visual artist that loves to create unique original out of this world studio photographic art. Recently I’m experimenting with photography lens, filters and camera movement. I also follow amazing photographers online and on podcasts that inspire me to try different photographic techniques.”

What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?

“I am drawn to surrealism in my photography because it transcends reality. My emphasis is on concept, experimentation, ignoring norms and exploring boundaries. I also love photos with a little shock value.”

How would you describe your work?

“My work has been described to me as conceptional, emotionally resonant and technically refined photographic studio art pieces. It is hard for me to describe my studio work. When I look at my photo I see the hours it took me to transform my idea into photographic art. I also remember the shoots and reshoots, relive the evolution of the image and recount the number of times I thought I was done.”

Which artists influence you most?

“Pablo Picasso, Alexander Calder and Andy Warhol.”

What is your creative process like?

“My creative process is always different. Sometimes, it starts with a visit to an antique store. Something will grab my eye. I once bought an old doll. It needed to look more used so I rubbed some dirt on the doll’s face and clothes and broke her head a little. A couple of days later I found the right background and added some smoke to set a scary mood.”

What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?

“Artists are photographic story tellers. They preserve memories of time.”

Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?

“My exhibitions include the Delaware Photographic Society Circuit in 2024 and Black and White and Light - Judges Choice Award - PSA Gold Medal - DPS Gold Medal as well as Mid-Atlatic Photo Visions ‘Time Never Stands Still" Best in Studio 2025.’”