by Chuck Foster - October 2008

Six degrees of separation, a concept I've mentioned before when referring to this month's featured artist, Gak. The last time happened to be when we featured her on the front cover of The Sinner holding a Nazi flag, photographed by Aurum, our July artist of the month. But this curse started months prior, at the recently deceased CHAC. We had stumbled into the venue to support a new advertiser, Ali of Mechanismus. That's what The Sinner does, support its advertisers, along with the alternative scene. At first glance, I thought I was having an acid flashback, days long gone but never forgotten. This creative, yet disturbing work featured along the wall led me to contemplate the notion that it just might be All Hallows' Eve. But I knew that wasn't possible. Instead, I found the work standing before me moving what the religious-minded call, soul. If it is soul, Then Gak's work certainly had accomplished that feat.

I needed to know more about Gak's work, a few answers, explanations. I wondered, who is this woman, who had troubled my mind so. She says it's hard for her to talk about herself, that she never knows what to say, that she feels a bit secretive. I can dig that, as I am too. But that wasn't an answer, so I decided to dig further. "I'm telling the world my biggest most private secrets, and they don't even know it. It keeps me sane... sort of."

Sanity, such a complicated concept. What makes it possible for you, I asked? "I've been able to do the work I want and not have to censor myself. Now mind you, I have gotten a lot of shit for some images, but it's never stopped me from doing what I do. In fact, those images tend to be my favorites. I am naturally drawn to the darker, more shocking side of things. I don't shock for the value of it, I am just not afraid."

Not afraid, I thought. Gak is definitely a chick with balls, no fear, and little restraint. So I decided to ask her about politics, the Seattle art scene. "I feel it's very disappointing. Usually I find it to be some perv with a camera trying to get a shot of some girl's tits and shamelessly calling it "art". I never really see anyone really driving themselves to the limits of their mind (MINUS a few fellow artists). I never really see anyone taking photos to send a message anymore. It's usually just a hot chick... standing there. Yeah, so tasteful. Where's the anger? The passion? The fear? The pain? I don't see it."

Her thoughts left me trembling, wondering about the Seattle art scene. Once again this upcoming artist had moved me. I had only one question left, what advise she would give to another upcoming artist? "Take risks. Don't let what other people say affect what YOU want!" Once again, I trembled.

Anyone who witnesses her work should tremble, for its darkness and intensity intimidate the surreal and macabre. That's the power of Gak photography, and power it is. To view more of her sinful images check out www.gakb1tch.deviantart.com. Forget about any upcoming viewings for now, she just spawned her first demon in September. Until she finds time for a showing, enjoy her photography on myspace. I certainly have.