It’s a steamy Monday morning here in Cabin Country, Minnesota. At first glance, this looks dreary, but find the peace this dew-covered window gives. Mother Nature grabs my attention again and gives me something to see that I haven’t paid attention to in the past. I give thanks for simple blessings like this image. I find beauty in the storm; I find my inner peace.
From discarded items to organic materials, this exhibition will feature works emphasizing the transformation of forgotten or overlooked objects into compelling visual art. We encourage participants to interpret this theme broadly and present their unique vision.
Selected work: Danger
Danger
Image statement:
Walking along Mississippi River Road in Saint Paul, Minnesota I found this sign warning me of the appending Danger of the cliff’s edge. I first thought this sign needed to heed its warning, but more profound thoughts went to COVID and civil unrest while living in Minnesota; and how we are failing one another as a society. Simple gestures of kindness towards others seemed something of the past being replaced with a “me” civilization with extreme views laced with violence instead of using words and basic respect for one another, knowing that we can agree to disagree and still live in peace. I believe we are all here to help raise each other up when we fall giving each other the support we need while dealing with life circumstances.
Kareen, the winner of Passports on Parade, decided on the artwork she wanted, and I’m blessed to announce it was one of my works, a Formal photozaic Titled Gateway to Racepoint Beach.
The back story on Passports on Parade can be found here:
Gateway can offer up an over welcoming feeling of “come on in”. This scene offers that feeling with a side of warning to those that don’t pay attention to their environment. I don’t mind the locals and will respect their home. If I’m not meant to be in the ocean I will sit quietly on the shore watching a movie of waves play on repeat for my pleasure.
Sample works: Orange watercolor, Yellow Gerbera Daisy, Hint of Gold, Gateway to Racepoint Beach, and Beach Life.
Orange Water colorYellow Gerbera DaisyHint of GoldGateway to racepoint matte lessBeach life
Commando Photozaic – artwork statement
My award-winning Photozaics are inspired by where Van Gogh’s textures meet Ansel Adam’s simplicity near the intersection of Bob Ross’ healing vibes. This technique is a labor-intensive multi-step process and starts with my journey into nature; recording the landscapes that spark my eye whether it be rolling hills or a babbling brook. After modifying the composition, I take the print and head to the stained-glass shop to find matching colors. I cut the glass by hand by taking smaller shards and placing them in a rock tumbler to remove sharp edges while larger pieces are sanded by hand and assembled in the frame. Grouting finishes the artwork allowing the detail of each cut glass shape to add texture to my art. I call commando, is liberating for me because it’s liberating to see the photo in sync with the frame, with no boundaries separating these two mediums from dancing: just beautiful fluid flow.
It’s that time of year again when the air is crisp, tanks and shorts are replaced with wool sweaters and knee-high boots, and spiced beverages warm the chilled hands. The start of the holiday season has arrived and Solar arts along with Northrup King Bldg. will have their studios open to the public. What better way to kick off the holiday season by shopping locally handmade artist creations, nothing! Need more? Well Indeed Brewery is located on the 1st floor of Solar Arts, still not enough? Well Quincy Street is home to various restaurants. So, no more excuses!!!
This collection of images captures the spirit of exploration, inviting photographers to share the emotions, stories, and moments that have shaped their journeys. Whether venturing to far-off destinations or discovering the hidden gems within their own communities, each photograph reflects the unique perspectives that arise from immersing ourselves in new environments and cultures. As we wind down the year, we celebrate the adventures that define us and invite you to relive the essence of travel through this inspiring visual experience.
I was blessed to have two images selected for this online exhibition, Beach Life and Watercolor Tree.
Beach life IR horizontal
Beach Life- digital infrared photography
Life is like an Ocean or in this case a Great Lake; sometimes it can be calm, rough waves, gorgeous blue waters, or jet black with white caps but at the end of the day it is always beautiful. Simple views like this help me recharge my soul, releasing the creativity like endorphins after a workout so I can share my visual art to the world.
Watercolor Tree- I phone fine art photography
Steamy Monday morning here in Cabin Country Minnesota. At first glance, this looks dreary, but find the peace this dew-covered window gives. Mother Nature grabs my attention again and gives me something to see that I haven’t paid attention to in the past. I give thanks for simple blessings like this image, I find beauty in the storm; I find my inner peace.
I met your parents Mia and Dakotah on a cold February Sunday. I knew instantly when your dog momma couldn’t stop putting her paw on me, letting me know she approved of me having one of her babies. I already had the deposit check written out and gave it to the breeder, Cheryl. She said births would happen around the end of March and the beginning of April, so I patiently waited for the call.
On April 4th, 2015, you and your siblings came into the world, and I couldn’t wait to meet you. CheeBah you had one other sister and four brothers. Sadly, your sister didn’t make it, and her name was Hope it was then I knew we were destined to be together as I was the only girl with two brothers and two male cousins that were my dad’s twin brother’s boys; we were all very close.
Cheryl was awesome allowing us pawrents weekly visits (pre-pandemic) so we could bond with our furbabies. Week 1, you were black and white with a dot on your head (that’s how you got your middle name, Dotti). Week 2, I was able to hold you and give you kisses as you can see in the pictures I took of you, nothing could stop your growth and markings started to form. Week 3 you knew your name and got a wiggle butt going when I can to get you out of the whelping box. You would hug my arm as I talked to you and give you more kisses, letting you know you are a good girl. Week 4 you were walking around with confidence not wanting to hang out in Kaos that a few of your rumbustious brothers were causing; wanting to explore the world around you. Week 5 more of your makings developed, and your bark was growing, still loved hugging my arm. At 7 weeks I picked you up and took you home, you loved the car ride and had no fear just an inquisitive nature to explore what was around you. It was Memorial Day weekend, and we continued to bond over that weekend,; I introduced you to my family and friends. Your first pup friend was Elli, and you loved him right away even though he didn’t care for you and snapped at your face. You thought that was love and changed that old pup’s heart.
There’s a difference between pretty and beautiful. When someone is pretty, they have a good appearance, but when someone is beautiful, they shine from the inside out. – by Rishikajain.
Autumn is Summer’s last party celebrating a colorful season, so step outside and participate in Mother Nature’s gorgeous grand finale! For me, it’s like the trees are excited to shed the old in a colorful magical way; getting ready for their much-needed hibernation to rejuvenate and start fresh coming spring.
Commando photoziac artwork series statement:
My award-winning Photozaics are inspired by where Van Gogh’s textures meet Ansel Adam’s simplicity near the intersection of Bob Ross’ healing vibes. This technique is a labor-intensive multi-step process and starts with my journey into nature; recording the landscapes that spark my eye whether it be rolling hills or a babbling brook. After modifying the composition, I take the print and head to the stained-glass shop to find matching colors. I cut the glass by hand by taking smaller shards and placing them in a rock tumbler to remove sharp edges while larger pieces are sanded by hand and assembled in the frame. Grouting finishes the artwork allowing the detail of each cut glass shape to add texture to my art. This series I call commando, it’s liberating to see the photo in sync with the frame no boundaries separating these two mediums from dancing: just beautiful fluid flow.
