The New Normal
With Covid taking control of the world, we are seeing a new landscape (pun intended) in the art world!
While it's exciting to go to art openings at various galleries, that has stopped. Gallery openings are very social events filled with people, food, drink, and a good time (and hopefully good art work). And it's exciting to be part of the 'scene.' Instead, we need to stay home. Gallery openings are not happening.
But the good news is everything has shifted to the internet - including art shows. Exhibitions and galleries that I've been involved with are still active and busy. But now they live online. While not quite as exciting as going to a gallery, websites are a great medium for showing artwork. Additionally, lectures and presentations about art can be found on social media such as Zoom, Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube.
Unfortunately, 'virtual exhibitions' don't seem to generate the sale of artwork in the same way as visiting a gallery. Sales are down. Art buyers want the tactile experience of art (and I can't blame them). How does it look? How does it feel? Will it fit in my living room? At this point, the internet acts as a 'wall' between art and the audience.
While this it is the best we can do, time will change!
It Wasn't Supposed to be Like This
The world of photography...
Route 66
In the fall of 2018 we embarked on a road trip down historic Route 66. This photo excursion included visits to old ghost towns, Doo-Wop diners, abandoned gas stations and other historic sites. Like no other highway, Route 66 is full of nostalgia - the hope of a better life, and a better world for many people.
No other road has captured the imagination and the essence of the American Dream quite like Route 66. The Mother Road was speckled with romantic and unconventional attractions and symbolized a pathway to better times.
Peruse this new gallery of photos, enjoy the fun, and imagine what life was like in a bygone era!
Travel Photography
I never thought of myself as a 'Travel Photographer.' However, I realize that all my travels and vacations are based around photography. This year I went to India and will be having a show of that work in 2020. This summer I'll be traveling to San Fransisco to photograph work for the Care Through Touch agency on a book project. Last year we did a road trip of historic Route 66 and will be having a show of that work. In the past, trips to various National Parks were all photography excursions.
This year I've had several requests from Photo Clubs to do presentations on Travel Photography. It has made me think about photography as a sense of place. And ultimately using photography as a medium to express feelings and emotions for various locations. To relive that moment in time that may only last a second, but lives indefinitely through the photograph. And to realize that time is a relative concept.
So maybe I am a Travel Photographer. I guess we all are - as we travel through life!