Tyler Dean Erickson is a Des Moines–based photographer working between documentary and fine-art traditions. His practice centers on intimacy, emotional memory, and everyday rituals, with a particular interest in how small gestures and quiet moments accumulate meaning over time. Through artist-run publishing, editorial work, and collaborative projects, he explores themes of love, faith, labor, and longing, emphasizing patience, presence, and accessibility.

Publications & Artist Books

  • Forever Hold Your Peace — 178 Page Photo book / Author

  • In the Long Run — Photo zine

  • Cover photography for A Stupid Glow — Featherproof Books

His publishing practice focuses on small-batch, direct-to-audience releases that pair personal narrative with observational photography. His books and zines prioritize sequencing, materiality, and emotional continuity.

Editorial & Publishing

  • Cover Photographer (3 issues), Little Village Magazine

  • Contributing Photographer, Little Village Magazine

His editorial work centers on portraiture, cultural documentation, and visual storytelling, with images featured on multiple magazine covers and interior spreads highlighting artists, musicians, and community figures throughout Iowa and the Midwest.

Exhibitions

  • Solo and group exhibitions in galleries, bars, bookstores, and alternative art spaces across the Midwest

Cover, Album & Music-Related Artwork

  • Book cover photography for independent authors and publishers

  • Album and single artwork for regional and independent musicians

  • Promotional imagery and visual identity for music projects

His collaborative work with musicians extends the emotional tone of recorded sound into visual form, often through portraits and narrative-driven imagery.

Media & Production

  • Executive Producer, Thousand Words

Thousand Words is a photography-focused podcast centered on storytelling, process, and sustaining a creative practice, featuring conversations with photographers and artists about their work and influences.

Practice & Approach

Erickson’s work operates at the intersection of documentary photography and personal narrative. His images often explore intimacy, labor, faith, love, and emotional endurance, with an emphasis on observation, patience, and long-term engagement. He is particularly interested in how quiet, everyday moments can carry lasting emotional weight.

Selected Credits

  • Author, Forever Hold Your Peace

  • Author, In the Long Run (zine)

  • Cover Photographer (3 issues) & Contributor, Little Village Magazine

  • Cover Photographer, A Stupid Glow — Featherproof Books

  • Executive Producer, Thousand Words podcast

  • Album and book cover artist

  • Exhibited in galleries and alternative art spaces across the Midwest