Born and raised in Romania during the communist era, Claudia Starkey’s early life was marked by creative exploration as a means of escape from the restrictive environment. She won multiple national poetry competitions as a young child, later immersing herself in the local art scene, where she became involved in art school, music, and theater. Starkey’s early experiences extended to a small career in film and television, where she engaged in public speaking and performance. Within the realm of fine art photography, she both appeared in front of the camera as a subject of exhibitions and worked behind the camera in photographic settings, developing an early appreciation for the medium that would later become central to her artistic practice.

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Starkey's exploration of photography became more intense during a period of significant illness, which followed her move to the United States in the early 2000s. This transition led her to descend into myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), profoundly impacting her health and daily life. During this challenging time, the camera became not only a creative outlet but also a coping mechanism. Confronted with physical limitations, her attention shifted toward the natural environment, documenting its beauty and complexity as a means of navigating personal struggles. It was during this period that the intricate relationship between human health and environmental conditions became evident.

For years, this photography remained a private and deeply personal practice, an intimate journal intended for personal reflection rather than public exhibition. It was not until around 2022 that the decision was made to share these previously private works, marking a significant turning point in the artistic journey. By presenting this photography, viewers are invited into a narrative of illness, recovery, and contemplation on the fragility of both human life and the natural world.

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A significant body of work, “Fragmented,” exemplifies this exploration. This photography series employs an intricate computer algorithm, functioning as a surrealist examination of how the brain processes memories, replicated through modern technology. The composition blends personal photographs taken over decades, immersing viewers in a surreal realm that engages natural pattern recognition. Each image presents a puzzle that continually reassembles into new, unexpected perspectives of a dreamlike world. The original images, sometimes low in megapixels, were not intended for large public display, limiting their print size. Over time, this collection has evolved, encouraging viewers to explore the complex, layered images in detail, where small but meaningful worlds of abstraction are revealed through close introspection.

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One distinctive aspect of the “Fragmented” series is the innovative approach applied to both the creation and in-house printing processes. The prints are RGB light-responsive, introducing a novel dimension that adds dynamism through the interplay of light and color. This technique contributes to the evolving field of visual storytelling, inviting viewers into an immersive experience where the boundaries between technology and creative expression are seamlessly blended.

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Starkey’s body of work interweaves her memories, contemporary photographs, natural landscapes, and destinations imbued with personal significance, spanning several decades. The photography subtly and symbolically captures the degradation of natural landscapes, mirroring personal experiences of suffering. This interplay is not always overtly visible; rather, it emerges through nuanced compositions and layered imagery that invite contemplation. The deterioration of the environment serves as a metaphor for personal struggles, highlighting the notion that environmental well-being and human health are profoundly interconnected.

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The artistic vision has expanded to include short films and music videos, employing similar methodologies to create her signature visuals. As an experimental artist, the primary medium is photography, although various technologies are incorporated to push the boundaries of visual expression. A focus on neurological diversity informs the exploration of how the human brain uniquely interprets external stimuli. There is a particular interest in how information is stored and processed, shaping perspectives and expressions. The interplay of monochromatic and colorful imagery, along with recurring themes of nature, underscores many artistic pursuits.

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Additionally, there is a profound interest in the application of artificial intelligence (AI) technology and its potential implications for human interactions. Questions arise regarding whether AI will merely function as a reflection of human behavior and relationships or if it will surpass these roles, fundamentally altering the nature of connections and communication. This exploration prompts critical reflection on the intersection of art and technology. Will AI serve simply to enhance interpersonal interactions, or will it redefine the essence of social connections?