Words and Pictures by LissaFudge

Subterfuge Studios Project: Episode 1: Jen Raven

2011-10-05T20:39:00.000-07:00

Subterfuge Studios Project is a new blog series aimed at providing a glimpse into the studios and spirits of an eclectic mix of local artists. Whether they be painters, writers, musicians, performers, designers, or crafters, each artist featured in SSP has agreed to share his or her personal space with you, the reader. All bio and interview questions are answered in the artist's own words.

First up, a peek into the space and mind of the quirky, indomitable Jen Raven.

Name/moniker:

Jennifer Powers (aka) Jen Raven

Medium:

I can be overly enthusiastic about a wide range of mediums. Acrylic gesso and acrylic paints are what I enjoy most. I'm also a big fan of heavy gel mediums, watercolors, photoshop, spraypaint, pencil, crayon, sharpie, clay, faux furs, feathers, foams, wigs, papers of all kinds and paper mache, paperboards, fixatives, varnishes, threads, yarns, trims, plastics, metals, polyfill, found objects, wires in every gauge, fabrics of all kinds, notions of all kinds, tapes of all kinds, and glues of all kinds. I could keep going and going with this list. And I love tools and machines as much as I love materials.

Studio name:

My nick-name for the studio is 'Willow Run' after a WWII manufacturing plant in Michigan, which was built by Ford Motor Company for the mass production of B-24 Liberator military aircraft. Willow Run got off to a slow start, at first, and had the press joking, "Will-It-Run?" But then they got the bugs worked out, and production picked up to an astonishing degree ... the amazing production capacity of this plant (640 B-24s per month!) helped the Allies win the war.

Neighborhood:

We live in Bakersfield's Southwest. My studio is a converted space in our home.

Studio dimensions:

Studio space measures ten feet by fifteen feet; we took the doors off the closet to make the room bigger.

Favorite feature:

For as long as I can remember, I've dreamed of having a dedicated work space that was all mine, with enough room to accommodate supplies and materials, while still also having enough space to handle several projects-in-progress at once. I finally have that space. I still turn into an emo kid and get choked up when I walk through the door, every single time. I can't believe my good fortune. This studio has good light, lots of shelf space, three separate flat work spaces, and enough room to accommodate three standing easels at one time. I'm home.

More info at:

www.jenraven.com

1. Favorite candy and why?

Pink coconut bonbons from See's. (The Tiperary bonbons are very good, too.) I like these bonbons because they are like everything good about frosting, but concentrated. I love frosting. Love. Frosting. Keep the cake and just give me the frosting.

2. Do you have a collection, and if so, what do you collect?

I do have a collection: I collect art pieces with wings. Right now the favorites in my collection are two winged pieces by brilliant local talent Susan Roussel. (Susan will be part of a small group exhibit, 'Fright Sights' opening First Friday, October 7 at The Foundry, 1602 20th Street, beginning at five pm. Admission is free!)

3. Local musician/artist/writer etc. who deserves more attention:

The work of local Painter (and currently, Volunteer Gallery Director, Gallery Manager, Curator and Teacher) Jesus Fidel absolutely needs more attention. We are damn lucky Jesus Fidel chooses to give so generously of his time and talent to building Bakersfield's Art Community. If you don't know Jesus yet, spend some time at The Empty Space Gallery and get to know him. He's an amazing painter, and one hell of a nice guy.

4. Inspirations?

Human relationships --that is, our relationships with our selves, with each other, with our world -- make up the bulk of my subject matter. One way or another all of my work revisits this theme. My inspirations are drawn from literature, theatre, history, and of course, personal experience. I am deeply moved, and I have a strong desire to communicate these feelings to others.

5. Personal soapbox:

My pet charity here in town is the Alliance Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault. Please join me in supporting this excellent group of people in helping to make our community safer for everyone. They can be found on Facebook, and also at www.kernalliance.org

(My philosophy or things I find important would take up pages and pages and pages and I'd never get done. I'm just too worked up about too many damned things, lol).

[Ed. note: To check out more from Jen Raven, stop by downtown's First Friday event, October 7, 2011, from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.]

Longevity pay.

2011-09-05T01:30:00.000-07:00

Recently, I reached an employment milestone: 10 years with the County of Kern. For my loyalty, I received a nice tote, a certificate (see photo below), and an extra little love on my pay check. This last item was something that I had heard of but had never experienced. Something called longevity pay.

To be honest, I had mixed feelings about this financial blessing. Much as I, like anyone in this economy, could use a few extra bucks each pay period, I had this sinking feeling that I had reached a dead end--an uncomfortably comfortable habituality--from which I would never escape.

In order to process my thoughts, I wrote a short, depressing poem:

Longevity pay (what it means):

Stable, solid, old.

Settled, no longer looking, no more hope of change--

nor of striving to reach goals.

Arriving at plateaus; no longer choosing.

Becoming one of them.

Defeat.

Smacking of bland death or middle age--whichever comes first--

Walking in tasteless, stale, sensible shoes.

Cheery, eh? It's certainly not as maudlin a prospect as all that, but I do feel I've missed certain "windows" which may never open again. However, I have embraced the new dollar amount I get to count on each check, and though I have mixed feelings about being a permanently permanent fixture with the County, I am proud of the fact that I've stuck with an employer this long--and that, in these times, that employer has allowed me to stick!

And, guess what? Last time I checked, I'm still breathing. Some opportunities are, quite definitely, gone forever. But future possibilities of art, new experiences, and life and love are all before me. I don't think I need to finish my autobiography just yet.

Dust and nostalgia.

2011-06-11T18:26:00.000-07:00

What the heck are these?

Most years Bakersfield skips the season of spring and jumps right into summer. But unpredictable temperatures in the last couple of months have allowed us natives to pretend we live at the beach--minus the ocean view. It is starting to warm up now, but while we were experiencing cooler weather I was inspired to do a bit of spring cleaning.

Found my red Keds!

The back bedroom closet had become a solid wall of dust and nostalgia that needed to be sifted. I took on the task while I had a week off from work, but quickly realized how much time was going to be needed for a project of this size. Boxes still packed from my last move yielded happy rediscoveries, and gobs of memories, packed away for the last twenty-five years of my life, were also found. Here was my old, green stationery box filled with school ID cards and long-ago classmates' phone numbers; letters and postcards from friends and ancient crushes; music trophies from my nerdy junior high years; and about one hundred stuffed animals whose faithful hugs I had nearly forgotten. I also found check stubs from every job I've ever held, poems and journals I'd written in my angsty 20s, and the scrapbook I made for my senior year of high school. What a thoroughly exhausting trip down memory lane!

While the closet is still not fully organized, reliving some of the old days has uncluttered my mind, at least a little. As I creep ever more quickly toward my 40th birthday, it was a good time to reflect on how far I've come, how blessed I am, and how much I'm looking forward to what the next decades bring! Done any spring cleaning lately? What's the best thing you've rediscovered?

Rediscovered Sarah Coventry bracelet which I remember wearing in the 80s!!

Love forever, Mom

2011-05-31T23:40:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine pointed out that is has been five weeks since I last wrote. Bad blogger! It wouldn't be right to let May slip away without so much as one post, so tonight, I take you back one month...to Daniel's 18th birthday.

What 18-year-old wants to spend his entire birthday with his mom? Not any I know, yet there we were--Daniel, his girlfriend, Savanna, Phillip, and myself--having breakfast at Denny's (his choice); walking around downtown; watching Sixth Sense with his dad, his grandparents, and some of his friends; smiling over cake and ice cream; hanging out at the pizza parlor in the evening.

And somewhere in there, this magical moment happened:

When Daniel was a little boy, I would read him the children's book Love You Forever by Robert Munsch, just about every day. What a joy it was then, that on his birthday, we should stumble upon a tiny, used bookstore in the downtown area, which happened to have a copy of this delightful little tome. Right there, in the dimly-lit, stuffy, back room of this quiet book shop, he read to me the words that once I could only read to him: "I'll love you forever, I'll like you for always, as long as I'm living, my Mommy you'll be."

For a mom that was feeling no small amount of consternation over my baby boy growing up, I think Daniel did a gracious job of easing me into becoming the mother of an adult. In a couple of days he graduates from high school; in the fall he starts classes at Bakersfield College. Even though one day he'll leave the nest, for the time being, he still resides under my roof. He's even agreed to co-produce a blog with his dear, old mom (coming soon!). Thank you, Daniel. I know whatever the future brings, "as long as I'm living, my baby you'll be."

Find of the day

2011-04-18T21:39:00.000-07:00

At the risk of turning this blog into my vintage vice report, I'd like to continue the momentum of my new-found passion for photographing and sharing my retro treasures. Here's my find of the day:

A shiny, patent-leather, long strap purse with a decidedly yester-feel. My poor orange, patent-leather purse, which I use nearly every day, is looking like it could use a break. But this "new" treasure may be able to fill in for a bit! Both purses were found at one of my top 5 all-time favorite used goods stores, the The Five and Dime Antique Mall (more commonly known as "Woolworth's"), for under $10.

Eureka Street launch

2011-04-17T17:28:00.000-07:00

So, how've you been? I've been better--school is dragging along and dragging me down. I have been in need of a new project to throw some excitement into my day dreams, and this weekend the inspiration arrived! As I mentioned previously, I have a bit of a fetish for vintage stuff. Yesterday I bought a few more things and realized: my collection is getting a little out of control! What to do? Well, yeah.. shoot it!

Eureka Street by LissaFudge is birthed. I hope you enjoy perusing my thrift store bargains and get inspired to do some hunting for your own previously owned treasures!

Poof!

2011-04-06T23:42:00.000-07:00

Exactly a month since she *poof* disappeared... And just like that.. she was back. At least for tonight.

First my requisite apologies for leaving without warning: school work plus lack of sleep was leaving me with very little energy, so I made the decision that something had to give--at least temporarily. Unfortunately, that thing was my beloved daily blogging. But even if it's weekly or monthly, I'll still be popping in to drop off a few pics.

Tonight is a pair of pairs--of legs that is--featured in our cozy living room. These are a couple of iPhone pics, edited with PS Express, of me and Phillip relaxing in our humble abode after a long work week.

I'm a big fan of yesteryear's style--as you may have guessed--I like to call my personal spin on it "Retro-clectic". Just to whet your appetite.. I'm working on some interior decorating updates to our 1940s rental home, and I'll be sharing my favorite vintage finds, thrift decor, and repurposed furniture on the blog soon. Stay tuned!

Adios weekend.. I hardly knew ya..

2011-03-06T23:14:00.000-08:00

Goodbye weekend... until we meet again. The last couple of days I spent much of the time asleep, and it felt great! But all that sleeping didn't allow much time for shooting. So tonight it's an iPhone pick: late afternoon sun hitting Rabbobank Arena across from the Kern County Admin Building. Now, back to sleep--see you Monday!

Contrast.

2011-03-05T23:45:00.000-08:00

Compare and contrast the two photos above. Similar? Different? For various reasons, these struck me as counterparts to each other and that is why they are being posted tonight. What do you like about these photos? What do you dislike? For me, the texture, composition, lighting, and contrast all work. But I wonder if this is a particular set of factors that I enjoy and which others may not? As I develop as a photographer (no pun intended!) I hope to be able to objectively critique my work and understand my particular vision. For me, straightforward, distinct landscapes and architectural elements are favorites that seem to crop up (again!) over and over. It will be interesting to see, in the near future, if many other photos resemble these two. If you're a shooter, I'd love to hear your input; tell me about your favorite shooting elements, and what you think makes a good photo.

Finally Friday.

2011-03-04T23:41:00.000-08:00

Sadly, I missed out on First Friday tonight. Instead, I stayed home with my Nutrition assignment and a slight belly ache. But that's the life for this woman who has been up until after midnight every day this week and who is incredibly excited about sleeping in tomorrow! Who knows? After some decent rest I may even be up to the task of creating some new pictures for tomorrow's post. Check back and see! For now, I leave you with something a little unusual.

The photo above was taken back in 2008, when I had just acquired my first DSLR. I believe I was driving and shooting, as I am apt to do, when I snapped this photo toward the base of the Grapevine (Hwy 99 at I5, headed south). Yes, I know the quality is horrible, but the composition is something I would love to capture again. So even though I cringe at how "noisy" and amateurish it looks, there is something of value in this work. This is me, learning from myself, and encouraging those developing their craft to enjoy their work, their growth, and their creativity--not every photo is perfect, but if you love it, it is worth sharing!

Do you know these people?

2011-03-03T23:34:00.000-08:00

Pardon me, but do I know you?

Strike a Pose Guy, Fresno, CA
by Terry Telford, LissaFudge Photography

I sure don't know any of the people in tonight's photos, and yet each of them posed for me pretty willingly. Some I didn't have to ask--they volunteered for the photo--a shooters dream! Apparently, complete strangers enjoy having their picture taken... which is puzzling... If these unknowns are so cooperative, why can't I get my dad to stay still and say, "Cheese," for me?

Don't go to Tucson, San Diego, CA
by Terry Telford, LissaFudge Photography

FLICS makes Friends, Bakersfield, CA
by Terry Telford, LissaFudge Photography

Photo play.

2011-03-02T23:47:00.000-08:00

Today was a day for play. Inspired by some goth-influenced photos (more on why will be revealed in a later post), I found myself revisiting the photo shown above. (See original post here.) I wanted to process it differently--with more of a spooky vibe--and that great, creepy tree was perfect for what I had in mind.

Another reason for play: An interestingly marked apple. I seem to be creating a collection of iPhone apple photos (hmmm...) taken at work.

What a wonderful food for art--and snacking!

This last one is for my friend Paul. I call it "AppleNoise."

AppleNoise

The lion roars in: March

2011-03-01T23:08:00.000-08:00

March already! Two months down of continual blogging! To be honest, I wasn't at all sure I would make it this long, but this post-a-day thing has actually become a favorite part of my day. Tonight I bring you more photos from the hunt: this time from a day trip to Posey, CA. Along the way, certain scenes begged to be captured. I was happy to oblige; evidence of man against the backdrop of nature is my favorite kind of landscape photo-making.

Sneak Peek: Masks & Mannequins

2011-02-28T23:51:00.001-08:00

Masks & Mannequins is a back-burner series I have been working on for the better part of a year. In the future I am hoping to put together a slideshow set to music composed by my son. Tonight I'm sharing just a small part of the work towards that end: some iPhone shots which I took at an antique and consignment store in downtown Bakersfield. While I love the emotion (or lack of) which these photos convey, I regret that I didn't have my "real" camera with me on this occasion.

Home sweet home.

2011-02-27T23:46:00.000-08:00

There is plenty of room and plenty of love
filling this 1940 fixer-upper!

Somehow the subject of homes came up as Phillip and I were talking today. Although we can get caught up in complaining about our rental property, we actually love the space and treat it as if it is our own. So many others have been forced to downgrade their living quarters and we have been blessed--so far--to be able to afford our quiet little home. This post is just to give thanks and remember that there are a great many others who are not as fortunate. We will continue to pray that this economy turns around and that many will be able to get back on their feet again soon.

Good Sky Day

2011-02-26T22:00:00.000-08:00

[Bloggist's note: Foiled by technology again, last night's post is being retro-uploaded today, 2/27/11]

Homework, housework, and hobby work occupied most of my time today, but I still managed to take a short drive and capture some of the beauty of this Saturday. Shooting from the car is always a challenge--aside from the dangers of driving and snapping--but I didn't feel like getting out of my jammies, so the best I could do was (sometimes) roll down a window. Even though the weather report had many of us hopeful for a glimpse of snow, at least in Bakersfield, our only chance was to spy it from the distant mountain peaks. Still, it was a good sky day, and that makes for good pictures.

Wish on a star

2011-02-25T23:29:00.000-08:00

Proud Mama post:

Victoria's Stomach performs at the Highland High School Talent Show

Tonight Daniel took part in his high school talent show. I am so proud of him! He and some friends got a 3-piece together to perform "Wish" by Nine Inch Nails. As the final act in a show filled with acoustic sugar and pop, Victoria's Stomach treated the teen-filled auditorium to a show closer full of angst and energy. Delicious!

David

Andrew

Daniel

It takes a lot of courage to audition and then perform in front of a roomful of adolescent peers and their parents, but nervousness aside, all the kids did a really great job. Congrats to the winners, and even those, like my son who didn't get a trophy, but who took the stage in stride and put on a show with a lot of heart. That's entertainment!

Yeah.. thanks for the busted window...

2011-02-24T23:55:00.000-08:00

Okay.. up too late and wasting time lurking around passiveaggressivenotes.com. It's a website devoted to photos of snarky, passive aggressive notes left by the irritated, the flabbergasted, and the livid--but mild-mannered. If you're having a boring day or night, there's some pretty funny stuff there to be appreciated and keep you entertained. I'm headed to bed now, but I'd like to leave you with my own passive aggressive photo which I took one Saturday on 19th Street in downtown Bakersfield.

As always, click on the photo to enlarge.

Baby Pix

2011-02-23T23:13:00.000-08:00

Pixel Cat--approximately 6 weeks--March 2009.

So I realize that not all of you are cat lovers, but tonight you'll have to bear with me for just one.. ok, two feline photos. I'm not sure of the exact date, but I know it was roughly two years ago this month that one of the cutest kittens ever to roam the earth was born. In celebration, here is a baby pic of my fluffy mini-tiger. Happy Birthday Pixel--and many more!

Before Pixel, Phillip had never had a cat.
She has made him into a "cat person."

Almonds and orchards and allergies...

2011-02-22T23:02:00.000-08:00

...oh my! Just editing tonight's photos made me sneeze! But arguably, blossoming almond trees are one of the most beautiful sights in Kern County. If you've felt a little sneezy lately this could be why:

Still, even with all those allergens floating around, it's worth it to pop that Zyrtec and enjoy these snowy blooms while they last.

Rest for the weary.

2011-02-21T23:59:00.000-08:00

As a very tired college student with a big test coming up in less than 24 hours, all I can say is... not much. Instead of words, how about a pretty picture or two? Above and below are a couple of photos of the Kern River at its frosty, beautiful best. When I look at these I think tranquility. And on that peaceful note, I bid you good night.

Seafood

2011-02-20T23:50:00.000-08:00

I had hoped to take Daniel to the beach for fish and chips last weekend, but plans fell through. Today's beautiful weather helped me to decide to try again, and so we headed off for an afternoon in sunny Santa Barbara. What a great shopping and dining expedition. I bought some vintage scarves (a bit of a mild obsession for me), and Daniel got to try calamari (we learned he is not a fan).

Now home, I am pretty wiped out after the drive, so it is off to bed. I leave you with a couple of photos from our quick trip.

Crime Scene Revisited

2011-02-19T22:34:00.000-08:00

Surprise--I actually went out and made pictures today!

About a year ago, on a gorgeous, sunny day in Bakersfield, Phillip and I visited some fields on the northeast side of town (my home turf) which appeared to have either once been a housing tract, or which once was going to be a housing tract. Debris left by one-time residents (or nearby neighbors who didn't feel like going all the way to the dump) was scattered over the area. The remainders made for an interesting photo session, and I featured one of the photos, "Crime Scene Barbie" on the January 30th post.

Today we returned on a gloomy, rainy day to revisit the scene. We were surprised to find that some things had changed and more surprised to see that some things hadn't changed all that much. I hope we'll get a chance next year for a return trip to again be able to document the evidence of passing time.

Storm clouds

2011-02-18T23:53:00.000-08:00

February 18th has been a blustery day for Californians. Although I didn't brave the wind for new photos today, I did pull these out from two months ago, Christmas 2010, when we experienced a similarly stormy day.

A ripe offering

2011-02-17T23:42:00.000-08:00

Is life a bowl of cherries, or is it the pits?

...or is it just that I ran across this photo of fruit that I really liked and thought it would make a quick and pretty post for this Thursday evening...?

You guessed it--this photo, depicting some fine looking cherries, was picked to share because of its juicy color and bright, cheery composition. It can be tricky to photograph food and make it look appetizing, but I believe this photo is a success. Mouth watering!

Color blocks

2011-02-16T23:58:00.000-08:00

Are you perhaps old enough to remember when colored lines would appear on television before the day's broadcast begin? It's hard to believe that I am... But one of today's photos reminded me of that. The other more closely resembles a pH or litmus test. I seem to remember doing some of those in high school biology. (Please tell me they still do those in high school and somebody knows what I'm talking about. How old have I become?) Anyway, for some reason these photos, again from the archive, caught my eye and I thought I'd share.

Royal Laundry

2011-02-15T23:48:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is back to work after a 4-day weekend. There's not much to say other than it sure is nice to take a break sometimes! I feel like my life was thrown in the wash and is now coming out of the dryer smelling spring fresh and ready for a new day. Or something like that.

The above photo was taken in San Francisco, in an alley near the SFMOMA. I just love photos composed with red, white, and blue in them. How about you?

Alternate view of The Huntington

2011-02-14T23:45:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I also shot some different views of The Huntington with my iPhone. Here's an alternate take on the great library, museum, and gallery.

View from inside the library looking outside

Vintage lightbulb collection inside one of the science rooms

An amazing wall of color and light upon which to feast the eyes

Every castle needs a fairy tale

Collection of Bukowski novels on sale in the bookstore

Delicious fresh-from-the-grill burger and early Valentine's treat

P.S. Hope you've had a happy day, filled with love--Happy Valentine's Day! See you tomorrow!

The Huntington Library

2011-02-13T23:58:00.000-08:00

A couple of hours away, tucked into an elegant neighborhood in San Marino (near Pasadena), an exquisite collection of books, art, and nature are open to the public most days. The Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens offer glimpses of history, decadence, and beauty in no small measure. If you have never been, or if, like me, your exposure was long ago as a child, find some time to take the short trip down south and be enchanted. This visit was a belated birthday gift to Phillip, who had heard that an area devoted to Charles Bukowski was on temporary display. I am so glad that we were able to take in this exhibit on its closing day.

Finding balance

2011-02-12T23:55:00.000-08:00

You may have noticed that my post from yesterday "magically" appeared this evening. That is because I had some technical difficulties and was not able to post last night, so I retro-posted tonight. For the record, there are times when I am working on a post but cannot meet the midnight deadline, which I nonetheless pre-date to continue my once-a-day challenge. Yes, I allow myself cheats--and so should you--because sometimes we don't give ourselves enough breaks and that can cause undue frustration and discouragement.

That being said, giving oneself too many breaks is not such a good thing and I am actively struggling to find the balance between self-moderation and self-indulgence. One area that I'm working on, as I've mentioned before, is my diet. That is to say, my nutrition. In the past I have over-indulged myself by giving in to every fatty craving I desired. But I'm learning that eating good food can be rewarding too. Case in point: Today's lunch. Pizza is one of my favorite dishes, and taking control of toppings and portion-size made it a deliciously healthy one. (It was fun too!)

Mini Boboli crusts and a variety of toppings

Daniel & Savanna, creating their pies

Combo!

Veggie!

Hawaiian!

Pepperoni & Cheesey!

One swift move...able feast

2011-02-11T23:47:00.000-08:00

The Literary Lush Book Club had its first official discussion tonight at The Foundry. What a great group of people holding a diverse, interesting collection of thoughts about Jack Kerouac's "Big Sur." Next up is "A Moveable Feast" by Ernest Hemingway with discussion taking place a month from tonight: March 11th, once again at The Foundry.

One last ode and farewell to Jack before I get 'on the road' to sleeping in.

Fading fast.

2011-02-10T22:42:00.000-08:00

The light feels a little dim tonight as I still haven't found time to catch up on sleep. Tomorrow: Friday. And then a four-day weekend! Lots to do over the next few days--school-wise, work-wise, photography-wise, love-wise--so I'm blowing out the candles now and hitting the pillow.

Making do with what's in hand.

2011-02-09T23:18:00.000-08:00

A little discouraged that I haven't had time to go out and make "real" pictures, today I decided to stop whining and use what was on hand. Or in hand, rather. That would be my iPhone. So here are a few shots, edited with the Adobe Photoshop Express app, of some things that I found interesting on this lovely Wednesday.

Above is another shot of one of the Recorder's Office cabbages (see post from Jan. 2nd). The light was simply spectacular, so I had to capture it.

I also found a mossy "runway" and an asymmetrically fallen branch.

Later, my afternoon snack posed for a final portrait.

Also today I was able to steal a few moments on-line to check out some other photography blogs and store up some inspiration. I'm looking forward to trying out some new ideas soon!

Red light.

2011-02-08T23:54:00.000-08:00

Too tired to think and too exhausted to write. My brain is flashing a red light at me and unlike the real one which I distractedly blew through this morning without pause, I need to heed its warning and get some rest!

(When even this looks comfortable, you know you need some sleep.)

Assignment: Low Light

2011-02-07T22:16:00.000-08:00

I've been prohibited from taking any new photos for the last few days due to the abundance of homework I've had to do in the evenings. But homework assignments are a good place for me to start this post. A couple of years ago I was taking a Digital Photography course at Bakersfield College, taught by Kris Stallworth. One of our assignments was to take photos in low light. A couple of those photos ended up being used for BC events, but my favorite hasn't been widely shared, so here it is, just for you:

This little guy is actually a pencil sharpener that Phillip bought for me on a trip to Sacramento. He sits cheerfully on my desk at work and keeps me company throughout each work week. In the photo, taken at a slow exposure to capture all the light in the office, my fair robot stands astride a delicate field of gold compact discs. He is quite the retro-futuristic turn-key warrior!

Super... foods!

2011-02-06T23:43:00.000-08:00

I'm not a big football fan, though I enjoy watching occasional games with Phillip. "His" team, the NY Giants was knocked out of contention some time back, so today's Superbowl left us only mildly curious. We watched the opening (Glee girl, Christina's Star Spangled Banner botch, the coin toss, and first touchdown) but then it was off to do some grocery shopping!

Due in part to the Nutrition class which I am enrolled in this semester, I have taken lately to eating much healthier than I ever have in my life. Growing up, I did not--as a rule--eat vegetables. Well, except for potatoes (any kind but potato salad), corn (but ONLY from a can), and carrots (though never cooked). My tastes are changing, perhaps out of necessity, perhaps out of fear (pushing 40 can bring all kinds of thoughts to one's head), but I am feeling really good: energized and healthier than just a couple of weeks ago. I think I may even be losing weight. If you're struggling with food issues this is just a little encouragement--if I can change after nearly 40 years.. so can you!

A little something delicious that I whipped up for lunch.

Having the rice pre-cooked saved loads of time.

Heaping fruit on top added nutrients & flavor.

The lunch above looked so good I had to take some quick iPhone pics. Yum! A quick, healthy, and delicious lunch!

Rest.

2011-02-05T23:32:00.000-08:00

I slept in.

After I got up, I wore slippers. All day.

My to-do list got deleted.

I napped.

Read. Facebook lurked. Played with the cat.

Phillip barbecued. I ate it up.

Saw a free sunset show in the sky.

Had a long, relaxing chat with my son.

Spent a quiet night with my best friend.

Enjoyed every minute.

That's a wrap.

2011-02-04T23:30:00.000-08:00

Was it fun? You know it!!

The 1st First Friday of the year had so many exceptional sights, sounds, and tastes--it was impossible to experience everything the night had to offer. Below is a peek into one fabulous show: "WordPlay," at The Foundry, featuring photography by The Shutter Clique. (What a privilege to be part of this show!)

Having fun in the interactive photo booth created by MySortedAffair!

"That photo is so funny!" Shutter Cliquers Jen Williams and Jessica Frey share a guffaw.

Crystal "Chiili" Alvarez welcomes you to The Foundry. :)

LissaFudge loves playing with words...and pictures.

Shutter Clique... simply yummy.

1st First Friday of the Year!

2011-02-03T23:57:00.000-08:00

Judging from the Facebook buzz, half of Bakersfield will be out at First Friday activities tomorrow night. If you've never been, you owe it to yourself to see that there are cool things to do in town! (There are actually a lot of cool things to do in town, but this is definitely one of the coolest.) Since First Friday isn't held in January and many people may have missed December due to holiday functions, the time is ripe for a party in the Arts District! There are tons more events that I haven't even had time to mention in a whole week of blogging but come out and discover some goodies for yourself. It's gonna be the place to be....

Finally, here is my entry for The Shutter Clique show, "WordPlay." Come see the rest of the group's photos at The Foundry, corner of Chester and Truxtun Avenues tomorrow night.

Anguish/Virtue

FOURsight: Quatrains of Intimate Perception

2011-02-02T23:46:00.000-08:00

You didn't think that was it for First Friday did you? Oh no, there's much more in store for visitors to the downtown arts district on the evening of February 4th! What looks to be a gorgeous display of photography is set to open at Metro Galleries at 1604 19th Street. This is the typical "hub" area for First Friday activities so you will definitely want to stop by and check out this exhibit. Expect horizon-expanding, fine art photography; smashing live music featuring Kama Ruby; delicious hors d'oeurvres; and a buzzing crowd. Great shops and eclectic street vendors will surround the gallery so give yourself time to roam and enjoy.

For my random, only-slightly-related photographs of the evening, I have chosen two photos from my 2006 visit to Israel. Since it is my understanding that many of Wooten's photographs are taken in the Middle East, I thought this might be appropriate.

1st Friday events continued: ConTEXTual

2011-02-01T23:31:00.000-08:00

Yet another (!!) awesome art exhibit which will be opening on First Friday, February 4th--this one at The Padre Hotel's Farmacy Cafe. ConTEXTual, a show about literacy, brings the talents of artists Barbara Reid, Claire Putney, Christine McKee, and Yvonne Cavanagh together for exceptional art and a great cause. I've been lucky enough to hang out with each of these ladies at one time or another and they are all lovely, gifted artists who excel in their medium. The show benefits First Book Bakersfield and is the second part of a year-long effort to bring awareness to various community issues through the use of creativity. The program, called "Creating Community" is presented by the Arts Council of Kern. Don't miss it!

And please see above for another of my quite randomly chosen personal photos which can nonetheless be construed as somewhat contextual. :)

Juliana's Art Studio & Gallery First Friday Reception

2011-01-31T23:45:00.000-08:00

I hope you're starting to get the idea that there is a lot going on this First Friday, February 4th! Another email just came in letting me know that Juliana's Art Studio & Gallery will be featuring the work of jewelry designers, gallery artists, and a photographer with an exhibit opening from 5-8 pm on Friday. Juliana's is located at 501 18th Street, near Mill Creek Park. If you haven't been to this often-overlooked, but delightfully different gallery, I recommend that you stop by!

And speaking of First Friday exhibits, here's an update on my gnome progress (albeit with poor quality iPhone pics):

My dreamy little fellow is coming along!

Crime Scene Barbie and "Once Upon a Fantasy"

2011-01-30T23:45:00.000-08:00

Another show opening on First Friday, February 4th is the "Once Upon a Fantasy" show which will be on concurrent display with "The Gnome Project" at Spotlight Theatre. This exhibit will feature artwork from BECA (Bakersfield Emerging Contemporary Artists), in various mediums, and will run through February 28th. I was hoping to submit work to this show also, but I just ran out of time. The one photo I would have loved to include might be a bit too much to work within the family-friendly theme...

The shot is of an abandoned doll found in an old construction site in the northeast part of town. I didn't disturb the scene--just took the shot where she was discovered. An obvious crime of passion.

Sword play and WordPlay

2011-01-29T23:30:00.000-08:00

I was lucky enough to go photo hunting this afternoon and to go "Shutter Clique-ing" tonight. This is a late post because I was out shooting later than is typical for me.

Scouting out locations, earlier in the day, I came across some recent bridge construction near Lake Truxtun and the bike path. These posts rather look like a mirrored optical illusion to me.

Tonight some of the photographers from the photography club Shutter Clique got together and shot a fun and interesting show at The Gate. The all-ages show featured the heavy metal band Heralds of the Sword, and there were quite a few swords also in attendance!

Speaking of the Shutter Clique: "WordPlay," a new exhibit of work by SC photographers will be on display beginning First Friday, February 4th at The Foundry. The idea for the photographs began with each member randomly choosing two words--a negative one and a positive one--then creating an image to express both. I'm excited to be part of this group and hope you'll stop by to check out the show!

The Gnome Project is coming...

2011-01-28T23:46:00.000-08:00

I got a press release from Nyoka Jameson, the president of BECA (Bakersfield Emerging Contemporary Artists) who is also in charge of promotions/marketing at Maya Cinemas. Maya is hosting a joint art project with The Spotlight Theatre and BECA to celebrate the opening of Touchstone Pictures animated release "Gnomeo & Juliet." On display, and available for purchase by silent auction, will be select ceramic gnomes designed by local artists. You can catch the exhibit February 11-13th at the Maya or from February 4th-28th at The Spotlight Theatre, 1622 19th St. Along with the auction, other family-friendly activities will be held at the Maya on February 12th from 1-5 p.m. More details to come about this and more new art exhibits opening on First Friday.

For now, check out this cutie (and his booties):

Stay tuned to see his transformation!

Industrial Glow

2011-01-27T22:28:00.000-08:00

Am I the only one who's missing summer already? Okay, not necessarily Bakersfield's summer, but the idea of summer. Warmth, romance, and sunset's glow. Ahhhh.... I'm already looking forward to lunches on the porch, driving with the windows down, and reading on a sun-kissed beach.

The dark has come for another night and the fog may be creeping in, but the above photo is straight out of July's hazy days. (If you haven't already guessed, I am a summer baby!!)

Pause to reflect.

2011-01-26T23:18:00.000-08:00

Day 26. Where is the year going? I hope that your year so far has been one of learning and growth, peace and love, seeking and finding. Even though it does seem to race by, the year still holds great, hopeful promise. I hope that we make the most of it.

Tonight's offering:

A little reflection; a little distance; a little perspective. For me.. and you.

Origins.

2011-01-25T22:40:00.000-08:00

Maybe it's all the studying in Anthropology about origins; perhaps it's just all the studying in general--and the not having the time for sit-and-chats; or it could be the nagging thoughts that wander about my brain late at night...whatever it is, I've lately found myself thinking more and more about my parents. I'm truly blessed to know these warm, wonderful humans at all, let alone to have been born to and raised by them. Virtually everyone I know who has met my parents has had positive things to say about this dynamic, generous, and talented couple. And why should I not do the same?

I took the above photos for my parents 46th anniversary. This year will be 48! Much love M & D!!

Dumpster diving

2011-01-24T22:41:00.000-08:00

I'm really glad I got this post-a-day challenge into a habit by the time this week hit because I find myself getting sleepy earlier in the evenings now that I'm busier. Too much cramming thoughts into every cranny of my brain--it wants a retreat among the pillows where it shall refuse any further figuring or furtive contemplation.

Today's pic is another from the vaults, circa 2009, but this one is far from random: I searched high and low for the file because I knew I could find no better way to sum up the day.

If today you had "a case of the Mondays," here's hoping your Tuesday (and mine) is brighter....

Launch

2011-01-23T23:32:00.000-08:00

A photo jaunt through the neighborhood bagged this shot of a mini-mart that I have been wanting to capture for awhile now. I'm hoping it will motivate my long-delayed but oft-pondered neighborhood market series.

Short post tonight as yet more homework awaits.. as does laundry... and that thing called sleep.

Saturday Night Special

2011-01-22T23:39:00.000-08:00

Some days I get to create, other days I get to be inspired.

Today was one to savor the atmosphere of art and find some inspiration...downtown. Jen Raven had another delightful opening for her solo show "Dine-in, Take-out" at The Foundry and afterward, Phillip and I, plus my son and his date, ventured over to the beautiful Fox Theater to catch the Banksy film, "Exit through the Gift Shop." It was a nice, cultured evening for us and the teenagers! I hope to do a little shooting tomorrow and be back with something new to share next post. For now, I leave you with a sample of my evening:

The Fox Theater

Jen Raven

Congratulations! It's been a good day.

2011-01-21T23:43:00.000-08:00

A good day, and a long day.

1) The "Literary Lush"Book Club got off to a great start and chose "Big Sur" by Jack Kerouac as the first title to read. I had a super fun time with friends and family, met some cool new people, had some wine and far too many cream puffs... Join us 02/04/11 from 6 - 8 p.m. at The Foundry to discuss the book.

2) We do it again tomorrow at The Foundry for Jen Raven's "2nd opening" of Dine-in Take-out at 6 p.m. followed by Flics at The Fox at 7:30 p.m. (Tomorrow night's feature is "Exit through the Gift Shop.") Check it out!

3) After a long search and lots of prayer, Phillip was offered a job today!! Congratulations babe!!

And now here's a picture:

Just to be different, I thought I'd post a non-photo. Actually this is a photo of a "doodle" I drew. It's not a great photo nor a great drawing, but it was a fun use of time...

And one more thing: I've heard it said that it takes 21 days to make a habit. Well, congratulations to me too--it has been 21 days since I started this blog--I believe the habit has formed!

Thirsty Thursday

2011-01-20T23:39:00.000-08:00

In honor of the upcoming "Literary Lush" Book Club's first meeting tomorrow night, I am posting a few photos taken not long after last year's opening of The Padre Hotel. A friend and I were lucky enough to sample a few of their scrumptious cocktails and I, of course, had to get a few "shots!"

The "Literary Lush" Book Club is made for those who want to stimulate their intellect, enjoy a beverage, and hang out with other like minds on a Friday night. The name implies that we will be "overindulging in literature!" At the first meeting, tomorrow from 5:30 - 8:00 p.m. at The Foundry (corner of Chester & Truxtun), we'll be deciding on which book or books the group is going to read. Wine and light refreshments will be available. I am so excited that many people have already RSVPd for the meeting; I think it's going to be a lot of fun!!

Random Stress Relief

2011-01-19T23:37:00.000-08:00

Back to school, once again, for a new semester. I only have another year or so at BC but it has already been a long process. Looking over my homework tonight I am reminded of how these weeks will stretch out with busyness and yet fly by before I can blink.

Tonight I felt like I needed a little relief so I dug way back into my vault of photos. Although it has only been three years since I began classes, so much has been packed in along the way. I am a different person than the "youthful 36 year old" from the Spring of 2008.

Looking back through these photos reminds me of a time when experimenting was fun and discovering was play. I like that--and needed the reminder!

Senior Year: Fall

2011-01-18T23:45:00.000-08:00

As Daniel approaches the end of his high school days, I find no better chronicle of his life than his senior picture. But the senior year of high school is so rich and filled with changes that I feel it deserves to be captured more than once. Therefore, I am planning a special shoot with him for the fall, winter, and spring of this school year.

The winter shoot will be scheduled soon so tonight I share with you a few of my favorite photos from Daniel's fall session.

Even in the few short months since these were taken, it is amazing to me that I already notice differences in my son. What a bittersweet journey this life is! On one hand, I want to make time freeze so that he can stay a child forever; on the other, I can't wait to see what his next chapter brings.

Photo hunting

2011-01-17T23:51:00.000-08:00

A holiday afternoon of scouting locations turned into a picnic date with Phillip on this Martin Luther King, Jr Day. Heading east, we took the road to Caliente and did some exploring. Some of the roads in that area have taken a serious hit from the recent storms, yet road crews were out clearing debris, making it able for us to roam safely and freely through some beautiful scenery.

Wordplay--Sneak Peek

2011-01-16T23:56:00.000-08:00

Ahhh.. what a day. It was a blast, but I am tired!

I finally got a chance to shoot some photos for my entry in an upcoming photography exhibit. In February, The Foundry will be hosting the show titled, "Wordplay."

After brainstorming, prop shopping, wardrobe, make-up, staging, shooting, and clean up, it's no joke saying photography is hard work. But with the help of my son and some of his friends, a few borrowed items from family, and the assistance of the best fiance ever, the shoot went off beautifully. My only regret was the light--it turned out to be a gloomy day after all--but we did the best we could with what we had.

Enjoy the sneak peek and stay tuned for next month's exhibit info.

Creating the mood

2011-01-15T23:40:00.000-08:00

When in need, Goodwill to the rescue! Today I had a great time "prop shopping" for items and costumes which I hope will create a mood for the photo project I will be shooting sometime tomorrow afternoon. The above picture is a very small sneak peek into some of the objects which will play a role in the shoot.

Although I said I would have fresh photos today, other obligations unfortunately swallowed up my time. Besides, it was overcast all day; tomorrow we are expecting good light here in California!

Pocketbooth

2011-01-14T23:30:00.000-08:00

My new toy, the Pocketbooth app for iPhone has been amusing me tonight, so I thought I'd share:

As you can see, Pocketbooth is an app that mimics old-time photo booths and creates strips of four photos. Lots of fun, though the shots automatically snap less than two seconds apart--sometimes not long enough to position the next shot--and there's also no option for color, or a choice of three shots instead of four. But for $.99 I'm really not complaining. Anyway, these are just a few precious pieces of my life--Phillip, home, LOVE, and my job.

Tomorrow I'm going on a serious photo hunt, so I will bring back fresh pictures! See you then!

P.S. Above portions are crossed through because... I am a dork. Thanks to a helpful tip from "Anonymous" (see comments), I was able to open my eyes enough to find the settings button in Pocketbooth! Through the settings I have actually been able to set options such as strip size (3 or 4 poses), photo effect (antique, black and white, color, or sepia), time between shots, border color, and even paper stock (matte or glossy).
Way cool.

Chuck that photo!

2011-01-13T23:58:00.000-08:00

You've heard of a "Hail Mary pass," in football? This is a Hail Mary post.

It has been a week of long evenings and tonight my lack of sleep caught up with me. After an inadvertent nap, I wake to find myself staring at my daily deadline for posting a photo. So back to the favorites I go!

Actually this one is a shot I took, in downtown Bakersfield, which I have always liked but have not used for anything. For this particular edit I was testing a logo for "LissaFudge Photography." I like the way the colors give a vintage vibe.

Why?

2011-01-12T23:40:00.000-08:00

Whoa. Big question. I don't know, to tell you the truth. There's a lot of mysteries in this life and many days I have a whole lot of Whys? Hows? What ifs? and Whens? jumping around in my head. That's when the "please"s start. Please, Lord--let this be okay. Let this too pass. Please. Please. Give me grace. Please help. Please make everything work out the way it should.

Granted, these aren't the most eloquent or sophisticated prayers.

But like a child asking a forever string of, "Whhhhyyy?"s, I believe there's Someone who knows the answers, and even better, understands the questions. And most of the time, that's enough.

I like being a kid and not having to know everything. Makes it possible to just have fun.

Broken glass memoir

2011-01-11T23:53:00.000-08:00

Phillip, my fiance, broke a bowl tonight while washing dishes; I was reminded of a time recently when I did the same thing with a drinking glass. Not wanting to waste this vessel I had owned for roughly 17 years, I decided to take some pictures!

Broken glass is pretty,

Even if its sharp edges,

and tiny shards,

are like shears

against my fingertips

[A reason to take photos of it all:

even the mundane and easily forgotten,

can often be employed as beauty--

a useful memory--on a dull day.]

Hello sunshine!

2011-01-10T22:08:00.000-08:00

More favorites!

I'm hoping to post new photos soon but, with a full work day and a sun that goes down too early, I haven't been able to get much time to shoot. So instead I'm continuing my series of favorites.

I recently reworked some photos by converting them to black and white and fiddling with the brightness and contrast. Here are some of the results:

Ahhh.... sunshine, remember that? With the cold weather still months from changing to Spring, at least these photos offer me a little warmth! Hope they do for you too.

Pixel's photoshoot

2011-01-09T23:45:00.000-08:00

We have a small, gated, side yard that doesn't get much attention. I like to refer to it as "The Secret Garden" and I have aspirations of one day turning it into something really cool--like a small outdoor photo studio. Today I took a few "before" shots in order to start planning my remodel.

But as I was crouched down, lost in a photo haze, "someone" came tap-tap-tapping on my leg.

Pixel, my Maine Coon mix, had discovered someone in her hideout--and she was excited to show me around!

Of course, I couldn't resist, and Pixel ended up having a photo shoot... It's a good thing she's so cute!

Shadow Cage-Favorite Photo

2011-01-08T23:07:00.000-08:00

As has happened most nights since I began this project, tonight I had no idea what I was going to post. I did go photo-hunting this afternoon, but I didn't really bag the shot I was looking for. Instead I've decided to post the first in a series of favorites that I've taken over the last few years.

I consider 2008 the year I really got serious about photography, and that is the year when I took this shot:

I took the photo in San Francisco, sitting on the benches overlooking the docks behind the Ferry Building. For me, it is an image which I oftentimes feel is autobiographical: A bird which appears to be caged by its own, looming shadow. Can this bird fly? Yes. But does it know it can? We've yet to see.

[Note: This version is an alternate process from the original which is not desaturated.]

More favorites soon, as well as some new photography!

Facing fears

2011-01-07T23:12:00.000-08:00

I got home after dusk last night.. just the slightest remaining light left dwindling through the trees. Took this 25-second time lapse shot of the tree in the backyard, then pulled the max out of the red tones in the photo in Lightroom.

The image reminds me of fear, but then I remember that I am working on my fears. I remember that scary things are also prone to beauty--if one looks with the right eyes. My eyes are telling me that red is my favorite color and trees are one of my favorite subjects. No matter how fiery, scary, absurd, and discomforting things may look, there are always simple truths to hold onto.

God. Art. Love.

Gripping and holding tight.

Epiphany: Dine-in Take out at The Foundry

2011-01-06T23:30:00.000-08:00

Jen Raven is a fabulous local ball of energy who also happens to be a terrific artist. Tonight The Foundry hosted her first solo exhibit entitled, "Dine-in Take-out."

Amidst abundant Chinese take-out boxes, smiling friends, and imaginative hors d'oeuvres, Jen's abstract art found its audience.

Below, some photos of the event (DSLR) and a few of the art (iPhone). If you're in Bakersfield make sure you check out this event during the month of January.

Jen Raven, artist extraordinaire

Dine In Take Out, now on exhibit at The Foundry

To the games

2011-01-05T23:01:00.000-08:00

I spent some time tonight looking over the past year of photographs... some 10,000 photos or so. It was surprising to me that I couldn't pick a favorite, although many good times were remembered, as well as a few sad times.

However, one photo stood out to me among all the rest--and not because it is a particularly good photo--I just liked what it says: TO THE GAMES.

At the time I took the above photo, some time last January, I had no idea what a crazy year 2010 was going to be. Looking back through the prism of hindsight, this little memo printed on a dilapidated, rural building should have given me some hint that a wild, obstacle course of a year was about to commence.

Noticing the picture tonight, and again reading its message, I have to take heed that it may just be warning me about the next 12 months. So with a deep breath I proclaim: Let the games begin.

Vacation plans

2011-01-04T23:38:00.000-08:00

The new year has me thinking about fresh starts.
Which reminds me of my budget.
Which makes me think of saving money.
Which sounds like a plan.
And a plan sounds like planning.
And planning brings to mind vacation.
Vacation, of course, reminds me of.... San Francisco.

So tonight I'm pulling out a few of my snapshots from my last two trips to The City.

I can't wait to return!

Visions of Daniel

2011-01-03T23:23:00.000-08:00

Daniel is growing up. He is in his last few months of childhood, racing toward and reaching adulthood before the beginning of May. This year he will turn 18. It's hard to believe. (Of course, this year will also be a milestone for me: 40. But that's another post.)

Tonight is about Daniel and his ever-evolving persona and character. These shots were taken in the room in his grandparents' house which has been designated as his. It is interesting to see this creation, this son, becoming his own person and developing his own culture. He is so much like and unlike his mother--so free, independent, creative, moody, gifted, intense.

He is as much the mirror, as the reflection.

Cabbage flowers

2011-01-02T21:08:00.000-08:00

Today we continue on the theme of flowers with a few of my favorite iPhone shots from the last days of that old year, 2010.

These cabbages were captured at a small, virtually hidden garden behind the Kern County Recorder's Office (Hall of Records, corner of Chester and Truxtun) in downtown Bakersfield. This office is over a hundred years old--the oldest government building still in use in the county--but care is taken to keep the grounds pleasant and well-groomed.

The original photos are shown above. I had some fun with processing and the results are shown below. For this series I used the Adobe Photoshop Express app. For better detail, click on the thumbnails.

New Years Day 2011

2011-01-01T21:02:00.000-08:00

It's been a wet beginning to the new year.

Luckily, I am blessed with a generous and patient fiance who doesn't mind being my assistant as I scamper around in the rain looking for an interesting shot. Tonight I offer a photo of one of our beautiful, yellow roses.

Last year this bush bloomed with the most long-lasting, fragrant, completely yellow flowers, yet this season we have noticed considerable speckling. If anyone has a theory on why this bloom appears to have the measles, please let me know!

Art Every Day is the way to play!

2010-11-04T18:05:00.000-07:00

Play is a great idea. When we play, we have fun being creative--it's not work, it's not boring--if we're not having fun we simply stop playing. I remember when I was little, my two sisters and I would play all kinds of things: Detectives, school, bank, office, Barbies, monsters, etc. etc. It was a blast! But inevitably my eldest sister would drop out of the game and my middle sister and I, suddenly having much less fun, would soon stop playing as well. Play isn't play unless it's fun!!

Art has been my way of grown-up play. Especially in my thirties I've realized that it is something that has always enchanted me and has taken the place of those childhood games. With art you can create anything, from any point of view, and you don't have to follow stuffy rules. I like that idea. But after spending most of the last year writing about art and art-related events, lately it seems I've forgotten the idea of play and begun looking at art as work. I don't like that so much. In fact, in the last few months I've started dropping out, just like my sister did long ago.

After realizing what is happening to my love of art, I have decided I need to make a change. I need to change my attitude and stop getting robbed of my playtime! Art Every Day Month is the perfect time for me to challenge myself to fall back in love with art and remember how happy it makes me. Sound like I'm trying to rekindle an old romance? Well, that's how it feels to me.

Tonight I'm heading to one of our downtown galleries to check out a new exhibit. The gallery is run by some friends of mine and I'm looking forward to immersing myself in the artwork. I'm sure it will be inspiring and I will be sharing my experience with you in a future post. For now I leave you with a couple of photos I took and edited during the first two days of Art Every Day Month. These apples made the recent return trip from Vermont to California. My fiance's family, who all live back east, sent these lovely reminders of nature's creativity home with us. (Man do they taste good too!!)

Vermont Apples

Vermont Apple

Intro post: Attempt #2 at Art Every Day Month

2010-11-02T11:30:00.000-07:00

I’ll admit, yesterday my Art Every Day Month (AEDM) started off with less of a bang and more of a whimper. But that’s okay, because I’ve decided that I’m not going to put undue stress on myself this year. Last year’s effort (chronicled briefly in previous posts) fell flat after only a few days, mostly due to the insane pace I was keeping at the time, as well as the pressure I heaped upon myself to be no less than perfect. Ridiculous and unattainable, not to mention no fun at all!!

This year I’m looking forward to day-dreaming up creative pursuits, taking photos, sharing my favorite pieces, doing a little writing, and visiting some local exhibits for inspiration. I’ll be posting sporadically: Sometimes every other day, sometimes it may be more than once in twenty-four hours. All-in-all I'm expecting attempt #2 to be a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. Join me on my month-long art journey and please tell me about your own!

Art-entional.

2009-11-05T11:49:00.000-08:00

All right, so I said I wouldn’t whine. I planned to be intentionally artful yesterday—and I was—though I had hoped to also have a bit more to show for it. However, though the day didn’t quite progress as I would have liked, I determined to stay “artentional”. The following is a list of the little things that made it so. As you will see, the items are not difficult, profound or flabbergastingly creative but just by keeping the art process in mind, all day long, I kept myself open to the muse and found myself getting excited about some new ideas which I will soon be able to implement.

Day 4, Art Every Day Month:

1. Wrote and posted short entry to blog stating that I would be intentional about art today.
2. Made contact with other artists. (Reached out through Facebook, Twitter, read other blogs/left comments to keep in touch/encourage. Was encouraged by those who reached back.)
3. Took photos of backyard “studio”. (Some good potential backdrops back here! Will make use of soon!)
4. Packed camera to take to work. (No good seeing the perfect shot if you don’t have the tools with you…)
5. At lunchtime, visited a charming boutique and bought the perfect business card holder—like a little piece of art itself—and felt refreshed by the experience.
6. Cleaned my work area and decided to make it more art-friendly. (May be at work, but why not be a little more artistic?Opened up space, made readily available doodle pads, office supplies organized, photos/comics/cool flyers decorating one inspiration nook of my desk.)
7. Talked about Art Every Day Month with co-worker and customer—got inspired myself!
8. Made a short list of projects that I would like to work on over this month. (Some things I’ve been meaning to do for awhile… AEDM gives me the right reason to stop procrastinating.)
9. Flipped through home decorating magazines—always a creative pick-me-up. Planned a trip to thrift/antique stores soon to find new items to refinish/repurpose.
10. Had an evening of food and fellowship with my family, and afterwards, a good night’s sleep.

Like I said, not quite what I had hoped. More like a day of “priming my artist’s canvas” rather than actually doing much “painting”. But I hope other artists are encouraged that we all have days where ground work is all that’s accomplished. And that it is a necessary and important part of the process which we can look on with pride. I am ready to create!!

Good intentions.

2009-11-04T07:02:00.000-08:00

For me, creating art has everything to do with intentions. I have the best of them. But intentions don't seem to create art, as I can attest to most mornings when I wake up remembering that I had every intention of working on my blog the night before; I had every intention of editing photos, or making photos, or journaling, or even prepping my work space; I had every intention of cleaning my house, paying bills, doing laundry--all which did not happen. (And for those thinking that housework or taking care of finances is not creative work, I disagree--taking care of those things preps your soul for doing your true (he)art's works--taking those worries out of the equation allows you to be free from the nagging (if erroneous) belief that you should be making better use of your time.)

So again I woke up this morning with not-a-lot accomplished. And again I think of a word like intentions, but this word is much different. Intentional. I remind myself that laying in bed chastising myself for passing out last night instead of working is unproductive. But since I've woken up early, I still have time to do one or two of the things I missed out on yesterday. Therefore, this is me. Writing a little. Jotting down a short list of things I would like to be intentional about this Art Every Day Month. Letting myself breathe and enjoy the crisp fall morning (which will soon turn into a warm fall day. Bakersfield seems to be having a perpetual Summer/Spring season this year). I have a long way to go this day. But my focus is going to be about art. I will choose to find it where I go and in whatever I do. And I will come back here later and tell you how it was accomplished--and not whine about what I intended.

Who I am. What I’m doing.

2009-11-03T12:39:00.000-08:00

Art Every Day Month (AEDM) was started by artist Leah Piken Kolidas seven years ago. The concept is simple: Create or experience art every day for the month of November. Why November? Another month-long creative project, this one for writers, National Novel Writing Month (NANOWRIMO), runs during November and challenges participants to write a complete novel in a month. Leah hoped to achieve something similar for art.

Art is on my mind 24/7. Writing an arts and culture blog, BakoArtistConnect, keeps me busy: hunting down events, researching local artists, photographing the action at various openings, films, festivals, etc. and making new contacts in the local art scene is a constant, daily routine. Thinking about art. Promoting art. Encouraging artists. Dreaming up new ideas to inspire the arts in my little corner of the world. It is time-consuming, energy-draining, poverty-making… and I love it.

Aside from the blog, I am also the mother of an artist, a full-time employee of the County of Kern and a part-time Bakersfield College student. My 16-year-old son is a talented, imaginative whirlwind of creativity himself: he writes, he draws comics, he creates videos and he self-teaches himself drums, guitar, bass and keyboard—all while using a room at his grandparents house as a make-shift studio to record his music and post his creations to the internet. He keeps me entertained (and educated!). As an employee, I put in a 40-hour week at my day job—working for the County Recorder. Not as much fun as you would think, haha, but certainly interesting. My student life consists of night and on-line general education courses as well as a concentration of art and journalism classes on campus. Currently, my multi-media class assignment of creating and maintaining a blog is keeping me quite occupied. (See previous paragraph.)

However, though art is so much a part of my life, I realize that less and less time is devoted to my own creative process. Although I take hundreds of photos a month, they are not of the sort that I might someday frame or sell at a gallery. Although I write frequently, the words are not of the variety that might one day sit, beloved, on a shelf, or that might cause the stirring of passionate emotion from a reader’s soul. Art Every Day Month reminds me of the need to find time to birth my “children”, those pieces that are growing in my
he(art) waiting anxiously to be born—to see the world and let the world see them. Thus begins Words and Pictures by LissaFudge—a place for my creativity to find a home. Also, I will use this space to post musings on the things that inspire me, locales in Bakersfield which are particularly refreshing, and links to others in the art world of interest or who propel me to greater heights as an artist. Feel free to drop by often!

I am an artist.

2009-11-02T19:30:00.000-08:00

It all started yesterday. I heard about Art Every Day Month...

No, it started two months ago: I started an arts and culture blog for my multi-media class. No.

It actually started twenty years ago. I was 18; I wanted to be. A writer. A dancer. A poet. An artist.

Wait.

It started much earlier than that. At 17, 16, 14, 11, 9, 6, 5, 3, 2, 1.

Yesterday, I was simply reminded. So here I go again.