Damon McLay is a self-taught photographer based in San Francisco. From early childhood he has expressed himself through a variety of artistic mediums which included achieving a bachelor’s degree in piano performance. Over 15 years ago, he began a thrilling yet terrifying journey out of small-town Alaskan existence and away from a life rooted in conservative religion. This inspired a focus on photography as his primary medium with core themes of personal growth and discovery. His work shows dominant elements of texture and contrast not only in technique, but also in thematic choices which frequently juxtapose masculine strength with emotional vulnerability. McLay has had solo exhibitions in Alaska and San Francisco.