Barbara Westbrook
on Photography

What is not to love about photography?!

Art selection often lands towards the end of a project. After 1, 2, 3, 4 years of building a home, we learn the scale of the spaces like the back of our hands. Color palettes are set and the rooms have a certain style established by their furniture, fabrics, and of course, the architecture. But there is nothing that can bring more beauty and visual excitement to a room more than a fabulous photograph.

In this edition of Workbook, we share how we use photography of all kinds in our interiors – both large and small, vibrant and monochromatic.

Worktable displays a charming collection of photography-related objects of all ages and styles. I asked the renowned gallerist and friend, Anna Walker Skillman of Jackson Fine Art, to answer our questions about photography. Atlanta is often categorized as traditional-leaning in style because we’re in the South, but Jackson Fine Art started changing that nearly 30 years ago and we’ve been following Anna every step of the way. We are incredibly lucky to have her gallery just down the street!

When thinking about photographers I love, Elliott Erwitt is at the top of my list. His images will make you stop and smile or stop and think. They really don’t need any explanation. Hanging one on a wall doesn’t feel like work - it’s a pleasure. I met him at a book signing at Jackson Fine Art and will forever cherish the moment.

~ Barbara