Glenn Yarnell is a photographer who documents architecture in Springfield, to show the brightness that exists and to show the cityscape in new ways. As one of Make-It’s 2022 Resident Fellows, he plans to create a virtual and physical exhibition to give people a chance to think about how they see themselves in the city, and how they see the city in their lives. Glen is a longtime resident of Springfield, MA, and currently a teacher. “I try to see the architecture in new ways. Sometimes I use reflections in the glass to change perspective. I hope my work will cause people to look at their surroundings, think about how they interact with the environment, and to see possibilities beyond what is immediately and obviously visible. 

How would you describe the creative work you are currently doing? I am primarily creating urban architectural abstract photography. 

What do you hope to accomplish as a Residency Fellow? My goal as a Residency Fellow is to create a Springfield-based body of work, focusing on reinterpretations of historical features of the city. 

Is there a specific environment or material that’s integral to your work? I’m very computer-based with my creative work. This meant that during the height of the pandemic, my art took a backseat. This was counter to what many creatives experienced during the lockdowns, but I’m also a middle school teacher. I was spending 6 – 8 hours a day online and on Zoom, teaching. 

How has your work changed over time? My earliest photos were of nature, and were realistic. This morphed into some digital manipulation of natural environments. While I have a number of works that I am proud of from that time, I didn’t think that it was an ideal mix. 

Tell us more about yourself – hobbies? family? pets? Travel? When I’m not taking pictures I enjoy running. I also try to teach myself various stringed instruments and can occasionally convince myself that I am playing a song. 

How did you find out about Make-It Springfield? I’ve been in and out of Make-It since it began, bringing my daughter to jewelry workshops when it was a six month pilot!

What role do you think Make-It Springfield can play in our city and the Pioneer Valley? It is so important to have space in downtown Springfield for creatives to gather and to do their thing! The combo of Make-It and the Fresh Paint projects have brought a new visibility of the arts into the city. 

What is the best way for people to connect with you and view your work? I post my work on Facebook, @gyarnellphotos, and Instagram, @gyar_photos.