Energetic, funny, great, intuitive, caring, reliable, engaging, sensual, analytical, and creative. Visual artist Janet E. Dandridge.

As soon as a camera landed in my lap, my soul began to breathe easy.

I have an understanding of my Being (a noun referring to Spirit) on this earth, in this lifetime – to evolve spiritually and mentally while evoking the same strength in others. One of the routes that have been chosen for me to do this is through photography that enlightens the mind with the power of the spirit.

In the recent years I have researched, studied, and developed my skills in the world of visual art. In undergrad at St. John’s University I had the opportunity to study business and Spanish in Alicante, Spain. Although I was in Spain studying those subjects, I immersed myself within the culture to mature intellectually, spiritually, and artistically. I explored castles, museums, churches, Colosseums, and archeological sites to gain more insight into art and art history. With only a point-and-shoot camera, I photographed whatever, wherever I was. Upon my return to the United States, I was thrilled to have a new outlook on life, and a new bundle of art and life knowledge to share and expand upon.

Continuing on my journey, I decided to relocate to the West Coast for film, television, and modeling, all along traveling with my point-and-shoot. I knew that not only did I want to photograph simply because I enjoyed the art and how it affects people, but because I could do this everyday creating a livelihood and a platform to share my vision and spirit with the world. Thereafter, I saved enough money to buy my first professional camera, a Canon Rebel XT. I began to learn as much as possible on the technical and creative sides of photography.
Soon after, I decided to work with children, looking to share photography and other art with them, while helping them to become productive people. So I taught literacy and art to children in Watts, California, an area that is generally ignored by the masses. When I worked there, I discovered why teaching art to children was one of the most important subjects they could learn and benefit from. And seeing how art affected those children positively, made me want to create even more. It also shed light on another part of my Being – to help the youth and gain knowledge from them to better myself and society. We must evolve, really. It’s time for change and the kids in Watts drove me to understand my role as an artist in this changing world emphatically.

I adore photography, art, and life, and what they achieve together. By constantly seeking knowledge, truths, and reevaluating who I am – evolving – my mission will be accomplished. I am a visionary who will show the beauty, importance, and appreciation of life and spirit to the world. I welcome the next steps in my journey.