A Confession to Make

Lowes Wharf in St. Michaels, by Betsy Spruill Clarke

Shot a party the other day with the theme Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall and I thought it would make the perfect title to kick off this part of the year in blogging the DC photo world.  Of course, my deliberate theft of another person's title is not the confession I have to make.  My carefree neglect to this blog, however, is.

I thought, back in June, that I would be able to blog more, since photo jobs and more tend to thin out over summer.  And I would be partially right, except for one thing that I never saw coming...the very fact that my husband needed a vacation.  And therefore, I would also need a vacation.

Working in a creative department, he puts in long hours through the spring and into the early weeks of summer.  And, much like any human, he was going to crack if he didn't get a little air.  So, I started focusing all of my energy into two things...his sanity and renewing my portfolio.

When August rolled around, I figured that I would take the month off, since it seemed that most people would be getting in those last weeks of vacation anyway, and jump back in this month.  But, alas, I am jumping in a little later than I wanted.

I apologize and I confess, I got carried away with the summer.  But, while we're on topic, here's a summary of our two big trips:  we went to St. Michaels and Rehoboth with Mom and Dad Clarke and we went to LA to see one of the final NIN concerts and visit with our friend Diamond Dallas Page (DDP).

The St. Michaels and Rehoboth trip was awesome and ended with a delicious crab feast/birthday dinner for me.  Southern Maryland is fantastic and has so much to offer--relaxation, shopping, much to photograph.

El Lay, what can I say...first time for both of us and the opportunity to see one of the final NIN concerts before Trent had to take a few sick days was...well...sick.  Plus, it was fantastic getting to visit with our friends DDP and Angela and getting to try out some new moves (quick background on DDP - former pro-wrestler-turned-fitness-guru; creator of a brand of power yoga called YRG that Adam and Betsy swear by).

There were some pretty nice activities going on here, too - SynchroSwim being my fave - WPA rules!  The DC Photography community also had to say goodbye to good friends and fellow talent - Stirling and Rachel Elmendorf, who have pulled up roots and moved out west.  And, while working on my portfolio, I did get some portraits and interviews of local photogs Megan Nadolski and Michael Domingo, so please stay tuned for that as well!

Of course after such a busy month or two, my husband says "You know, you really haven't put anything in the blog lately." Argh.  The reality that you have wronged someone...or an entire community...is a lot to take.

Let's kick this off right and get this engine up and running...

So, tell DC Shot List - you know the drill...in photo...what you did for the summer:  foto.maven@gmail.com

And for goodness sakes, please tell us that you met the DC Fotoweek submission deadline!

All the Better to Pack Your Calendar With, My Dear...

"Copy of Self Portrait" by Jen Chappell, from her exhibit "Volume"

The following are announcements of events this weekend through next week from The Pink Line, Civilian Art Projects, Ten Miles Square, Jen Chappell & Artomatic.

Do it!

First on 1st
Neighborhood Art + Music Walk
Pink Line Project / North Capitol Main Street

Saturday, August 1, 2009
12:00pm - 4:00pm

Along 1st St NW, Between Florida Ave and Rhode Island Ave.
Washington, DC

Pick up programs at Big Bear and Windows to find out where to see art and listen to music.

Big Bear is at 1700 1st Street, NW.
Windows is at 101 Rhode Island Avenue, NW.

Free beverage to those who complete the walking tour game! Drink specials for everyone!

Artists:
Lisa Marie Thalhammer
BK Adams
Margaret Boozer
Peter Wood
Chris Tousimis
DECOY
Patty Firestone
Amber Robles-Gordon
Ten Miles Square
Serinity Knight
Megan Blafas

Music program:
Michael Trotter
Senetra Bridgette
Tek X Millennium and Friends
3rd Generation Band
Joy Dion
Tameka
Kool K and the KL Movement
(We're still adding acts so check back here for updates.)

"A New Currency: Shared Resources"
A group exhibition organized by Civilian Art Projects for 87FLORIDA, (part of First on 1st)

Civilian Art Projects

Saturday, August 1, 2009
12:00pm - 4:00pm

87FLORIDA
87 Florida Avenue, NW
Washington, DC
As part of the "First on 1st Neighborhood Art + Music Walk" sponsored by the Pink Line Project and North Capitol Main Street

CIVILIAN ART PROJECTS has cooked up a summer show for 87FLORIDA:

Organized in conjunction with the New York City based School of Visual Arts MFA 2009 class who instigated a series of exhibitions and projects across the country called "A New Currency," Civilian asked the following artists to create new or existing work that shared a common spirit of abundance.

In new and imaginative ways, artists in the exhibition interpret art and ideas as resources with a currency unlimited by monetary definition.

More information can be found on the SVA's "A New Currency" project here: http://anewcurrency.blogspot.com/

This group exhibition organized by Civilian Art Projects for 87FLORIDA includes:

Seth Adelsberger
Nicholas Carr
Anthony Dihle
Carole Wagner Greenwood
Ryan Hill
Erick Jackson
Amanda Kleinman
Kate MacDonnell
Cara Ober
Trevor Young

August 1 - September 26th

Opening Reception: Saturday, August 1, 12-4pm

Join us for refreshments, conversation, and art.


Ten Miles Square
Visit us at Windows Cafe during the First on 1st Art + Music Walk
Saturday, August 1, 12 to 4 p.m.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Join Ten Miles Square and the work of four photographers at Windows Cafe this Saturday as part of the First on 1st Art + Music walk, organized by the Pink Line Project and North Capitol Main Street.  Grab a map at one of the participating venues all along 1st Street NW between Florida and Rhode Island Avenues to enjoy music, drinks, art and more from noon to 4 p.m.

Ten Miles Square is doing a four square at Windows Cafe -- between nature and street photography, and portrait and action shots.   Jo Ann Tooley's serene black and white outdoor images play up the colors of Tracy Clayton's urban scenes, while Katy Ray's playful, feminine models increase the brutality of Brian Knight's adventure race crashes.

Windows Cafe is at 101 Rhode Island Avenue NW.  Take the metro to Shaw on the Green line and your art + music walk starts a few blocks away, just keep walking up Rhode Island Ave.


Volume by Jen Chappell
Jen Chappell

Saturday, August 1, 2009
7:00pm - 9:00pm

Workhouse Arts Center, Building W-6
9601 Ox Road
Lorton, VA

Photography show beginning July 15th, through September 13th.

Join Jen in the gallery on August 1st for a reception...check out some of her older work, newer work, and to just have a good time!

"I make photographs of those things that speak to me.

"Often these items are either of two opposites. The burgeoning bud or the rusted, decaying sheet metal; the early morning fog rising off a lake or a punk rock show. Each has its place in world. Both tell of life. And, both are beautiful.

"I title my photographs only when I have to and only for cataloguing purposes and ease of identification. I hope not to bias or lead the viewer to any conclusions with my work. Look at the piece for what it is…to you. Even if you dislike a photograph, I have done my job – I have created an emotion.

"Nan Goldin, Diane Arbus, Walker Evans, and Eugène Atget are among my favorite photographers. Each celebrated the beauty of the normal everyday (even if not societally normal, or conventionally beautiful). The beat inside, the life force, the God in every and all.

"I have chronicled my life through those things I see around me. I am a juried member of the Workhouse Photographic Society at Lorton, a member of Del Ray Artisans, and have shown my work in many shows throughout the area.

"Day in, day out.

"Conventionally, or absurdly beautiful."
-Jen Chappell

Artomatic Happy Hour at The Science Club

ARTOMATIC

Wednesday, August 5, 2009
6:00pm - 8:00pm

Science Club
1136 19th Street, NW
Washington, DC

Are you already getting those Artomatic withdrawal pains?

Do you need a fix soon or you’ll bust? You could come help move lumber at the site, and/or, you could come to Happy Hour.

We’re starting back up at the Science Club, 1136 19th St NW, Washington, DC 20036, (202) 775-0747, the first Wednesday of every month.

It gets crowded so get there early.

NOW YOU KNOW, SO MAKE PLANS TO GO!!!

XOXO,
DC SHOT LIST

More SynchroSwim Hot Shots + Fotoweek DC 2009 and Other DC Shot List News

Photo and article by Betsy Spruill Clarke.

Happy Monday! I'm back from vacation and it seems that there is much news to report on the Photo front for DC...

MORE PHOTOS FROM MORE PHOTOGRAPHERS AT WPA'S SYNCHROSWIM

As you saw, last week, Adam and I had a blast at Washington Project for the Art's Synchro Swim event at Capitol Skyline Hotel.  Many other photographers around town also had fun and I wanted to include their links to check out:

*  Max Cook http://www.flickr.com/photos/maxedaperture/sets/72157621607536125/ 

*  Meaghan Gay http://dcist.com/2009/07/click_click_synchronized_swimming_a.php?gallery0Pic=10

*  Also spotted was Pulitzer prize winning photographer, Lucian Perkins!

FOTOWEEK DC 2009 UPDATES

Fotoweek DC 2009 Awards - Did you get your entry in by yesterday for the 20% off discount?  Well, if you missed it, you missed saving money...but that's all...you haven't missed the official deadline, so don't give up!  Submit today.  Deadline is September 20th! Highlights of this year's competition include:

• Open to all photographers around the world
• Accepting single images, series projects, social documentary and multimedia work
• $21,500 in cash prizes including $5,000 for the Podesta Prize "Spirit of Washington"
• 12 entry categories including Social Documentary & New Media
• Distinguished Panel of Judges
• Awards Ceremony at National Geographic Society Nov 5, 2009
• Winning photos exhibited at FotoWeek DC Festival Nov 7-14, 2009
• FotoWeek DC limited edition book published in 2010 with winning photos

Fotoweek DC 2009 Youth Photo Contest

Know any young up-and-coming hot shots that deserve a little recognition?  FotoWeek DC and The Washington Post want to see young photogs strut their portfolio stuff in this contest.  As part of DC's week-long biggest and best celebration of photography, November 7 - 14, young shutterbugs who participate stand a chance to win some cool prizes and have winning photos published in The Washington Post, exhibited at the FotoWeek Central Hub and at fotoweekdc's on-line gallery.

This contest is free.  Students (K through 12th grade) in Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia can submit up to three photos each, now through September 27th.

And More Fotoweek Happenings that Excite DC Shot List

In addition to Fotoweek DC's 2009 better-than-ever contests, they also list some other can't miss opportunities surrounding the week that DC's photophiliacs now look forward to including:

• Portfolio Reviews - With partners, American Society of Picture Professionals and the Corcoran Gallery of Art, Fotoweek DC will be hosting portfolio reviews by 20 nationally acclaimed photo professionals at the Corcoran...
• Cameras For Kids - In partnership with Critical Exposure and Martin Luther King Elementary School, a fall photography instruction/mentoring/guest lecture program is in the works...
• and NightGallery Projections - large scale outdoor photographic projections are planned for some of the city's most prestigious institutions and museums.

DC SHOT LIST NEWS

Thank you to all who have volunteered to contribute to DC Shot List.  I promise that if I haven't responded to you, I will.  It is for many worthy causes including photography karma as well as promoting DC as THE premier city of the best photography, to name a few.  If you are interested in contributing (reporting on the best in photographic happenings and peeps around DC in both word and image) please contact Betsy Spruill Clarke foto.maven@gmail.com.  I will get to you, especially with Fotoweek DC around the corner!

Also, if you haven't caught up with the group on Flickr, please do!  Join us... http://www.flickr.com/groups/dcshotlist/ so we can tout your photos!

July 4th Shot Call and Your Thoughts on Young Talent

"Fireflies," July 4th, 2009, by Adam & Betsy Clarke

Did you enjoy your three-dayer?  I organized my ass off, we helped in-laws with attic insulation, and watched movies and episodes of "Always Sunny in Philadelphia."  If you haven't seen this show, you are missing out on piss-your-pants-comedy.  But this isn't a television blog, this is a blog focused on DC's best in all-things photography and I'll get on with it...

Jumpstarting my weekend was a shoot with Washington Life, alongside of two very talented DC photographers:  Nakeva Corothers and Anchyi Wei.  This inspired an article that I'm going to write sometime soon about the importance of nurturing all aspects of our photography community in support of DC's growing reputation as THE city of photography.  For example, Anchyi, is very hesitant on pushing her photography forward, regardless of the fact that there are many who feel that she has an incredible eye.  In my opinion, when we fail to give encouragement to those who may not even realize their talents, we fail the greater deliverable of our photography community.

Ideas?  Thoughts?  Please let me know!

Also, Adam and I were so exhausted after helping with the insulation that we did not make any plans for fireworks.  So, we tried a little something different...fireflies.  We found a great spot on Beach Drive (Rockcreek Park) where the fireflies were overly-abundant...as well as the mosquitoes.  In between applications of cortizone cream, we managed to kick out a few through the editing process.

Featured above is one of the shots from the night.  Since we were trading cameras constantly, I have no idea which person took this.  But, Adam took a series of sweet shots.  I'm hoping that he will submit to the following request...

Satisfy the DC Shot List curiosity...what were some other shots taken from this July 4th?  Got anything unique or unusual to share?  Please send it along and if I get enough, I'll do a posting of these pics this week (you will get credit, of course).

So, that's your Monday homework...send me your thoughts on the influence of supporting up-and-coming photographers as well as any photos from July 4th that you would like to show off...

In the words of DC's Erika Horn, "Shoot 'em dead!"

from the desk of Jenny Walton, DC Advocates for the Arts

The DC Advocates for the Arts are looking to showcase individual artists of all disciplines (visual, dance, theatre, music, literary) and Arts Organizations in Washington, DC. If you are interested in being featured, please send an image of your work, a paragraph about the work, and your website link.

The photo can be a logo or a piece of your work or even a photo of you. We would recommend putting what showcases you the best for both photo and paragraph. We will need them by July 16th . if you prefer, you can also send them directly to dcadvocatesforthearts@gmail.com. Just let Rob know that Jenny sent you :)

Also, if you know of an artist living in Washington, DC - please forward!

The Advocates will be putting it on the bottom of the website in a rotating order of individuals and organizations.


Thanks.

Jenny

About DC Advocates for the Arts
Founded in 2002 by Jill Strachan and Lionell Thomas, The DC Advocates for the Arts are an all-volunteer organization working to increase support for Arts in the District through interaction with Arts leaders and policy-makers. We are organized by a steering committee.

Failing to Plan is Planning to Fail

DC SHOT LIST'S FIRST PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Remember when we kept asking you to send us your Flickr link?  Well, here's why...DC Shot List wants to start doing a Photo of the Week, pulling from a group we created.  The first photo of the week is by Jon Haber, entitled Failing to Plan is Planning to Fail.

Here is what he says about his shot:  "Noticed this while walking along a canal in Amsterdam. Ironic considering my job in 'preparedness planning'."

YOUR THOUGHTS, PLEASE.

We encourage constructive criticism...What do you like?  What would you do differently?  So, please share your thoughts with us and Jon.

JON, THANK YOU FOR SUBMITTING YOUR PHOTO!

ABOUT JON HABER
2009 has been a good year for Jon, having work on display at the Kentlands Mansion as well as Bohrer Park in Gaithersburg, MD.  His love of photography started with his first camera, a Kodak Instamatic (complete with flash cube). Self-taught in both the technical and artistic aspects of photography, Jon spent his early years immersed in the world of film, and he's now creating photography and art entirely digitally.  
For more information - http://www.jbhaber.com/index.htm
Flickr Page - http://www.flickr.com/photos/jbhaber/

ABOUT DC SHOT LIST'S PHOTO OF THE WEEK
Want to submit for the Photo of the Week?  Go to http://www.flickr.com/groups/dcshotlist/ and check it out.  Send us your flickr page, too, Mister!

Critical Exposure Wrap-Up...From Contributors!  Yay!

Wrap-up piece courtesy of Mark Parascandola, a local DC photographer; Photos courtesy of Jaime Windon, also a DC-based photographer and volunteer with the S.T.E.P. Up DC photography class; Captions by Emma Nolan-Abrahamian, a VISTA Fellow and colleague of Adam Levner.

This was a fun event, and I was really impressed with the work of these students. Several of the photographers were there and talked about their work. It was interesting to see what they chose to focus on, and the exhibit demonstrated how effectively photography can be used to convey a message. One especially powerful image simply showed the number '41' written on a tiled school wall -- I didn't know what this represented until I read the student's text about the impact of gang signs in the school.

Artemio Garcia, one of the students in S.T.E.P. Up DC photography class, talking with Amanda Lucidon (right), a DC based photographer who volunteered during the S.T.E.P. Up photo class and worked with Artemio to develop his story. 

Sackiella, one the students from Truesdell Elementary School, talks about her experiences taking pictures with Critical Exposure. 

Sarah Mayo, another S.T.E.P. Up DC photograpy student, looks at the exhibit.

Thank you Mark, Jaime and Emma for your generous contribution to DC Shot List!

Get involved!  Get more information on Critical Exposure, today!  www.criticalexposure.org

A Week (or More) In the World of DC Photography

Image from Heather Goss

First off, a special shout out to a couple photographers I recently met, Stirling and Rachel Elmendorf, Frank Salieri, and Russell Hirshon. If I forgot anyone, put me in check and shout right back in the comments!  Stirling and Rachel are a power-duo in events.  Frank is a master of flexibility, managing head shots for the Junior League of Washington.  Russell is one of the most helpful photographers for other photographers to know during events.  All four are talented, energetic and fun to know! 

Second - DC Shot List has a fan page and a group page on Facebook.  Check 'em out!

Now, on with the latest in photography news...

I'm With the Band at Dahlak EXTENDED, New Critical Mass Update and Flaunt Runway Show
from Heather Goss of Ten Miles Square...

NEW DATE! Celebrate Critical Mass on Saturday, May 15th (And celebrate the birthdays of Heather Goss and Jayme McLellan!!!)
EXTENDED! I'm With the Band at Dahlak
Don't Miss Flaunt Runway Show on Saturday, June 6th

Ann Curry Darfur Photography on Display at Washington School of Photography
from Patrick of Metroblogging.com...

Daily DC Item: Ann Curry Explores Darfour Through Photos
I learned via Ann Curry's twitter feed that the Washington DC School of Photography opened a new exhibition of photos taken by Curry. ...

Fotoweek's FOTOBAMA Winning Shots Up at Newseum
from Alison McSherry of Roll Call...

Newseum Photos Snap Obamamania
... features the winning images from a photo contest sponsored by the Newseum and FotoWeek DC, a nonprofit organization that promotes photography. ...

Celebrate International Year of Astronomy with Smithsonian Photography Initiative
from Art Daily...

Smithsonian Photography Initiative Celebrates the International Year of Astronomy in May and June
WASHINGTON, DC.- During May and June, the Smithsonian Photography Initiative offers three ways to celebrate both the International Year of Astronomy and the ...

Architecture Photography Exhibition at The National Building Museum
from jasmine of We Love DC...

Architecture of Authority=DC
The National Building Museum has a photography exhibition up right now called Architecture of Authority that explores exactly those kinds of “powerful ...

Founder of Association of International Photography Art Dealers Closes Her Doors
from Jessica Dawson of The Washington Post...

Doyenne of DC Photography to Close Her Gallery
By Jessica Dawson In 1976, when a 28-year-old Kathleen Ewing ditched her National Gallery of Art job and decided to sell photographs instead, photography ...

A Special Heads Up of Upcoming Foto Phun!

Mermaid on Coney Island, 1995, ©Sylvia Plachy

First, special thanks to Mark P for the update on Critical Exposure, last night!  I will definitely post and with photos, if I can find someone who took some...ahem...but, in the meantime, here is a copy of an update I got from FotoWeek DC. 

Eh, chances are, if you read DC Shot List, then you probably already subscribe to FotoWeek's emails.  However if you do not...then I am an informative lady today!  Yay!  But, still, you should really get on that list, too.  So...just in case you aren't, the below message cites what looks to be a very fun event for all of your imaging pleasure!  I know it's not DC or that close, really, but it's close enough for a day trip and, thus, DC Shot List material all the way!

If you are planning on going, gimme the heads up!  And without further ado (oh and scroll down for another boss photo by Plachy!)....

"Dear Friend of FotoWeek DC,

"As part of our mission to bring you the best of all things photographic,

"SAVE THESE DATES: June 11, 12 and 13!

"The third annual LOOK3 Festival of the Photograph is set for June 11, 12, and 13 in beautiful Charlottesville, Virginia.  Join us for 3 days of peace, love, and photography as we transform historic downtown Charlottesville into a "living image" and celebrate the careers of three legendary photographers:  Martin Parr, Gilles Peress, and Sylvia Plachy. These three renowned photographers will each create a solo gallery exhibit and appear on-stage individually at the historic Paramount Theater to discuss their lifetime of work and show images from their careers. Please visit our website at www.look3.org  for more details on these artists and the LOOK3 programs.

"Returning in 2009 are the LOOK3 Workshops and Project Critique Sessions. Photographers of all skill levels will find invaluable instruction and experience by enrolling in classes taught by master photographers David Alan Harvey, James Nachtwey, Nina Berman, Eugene Richards, and Larry Fink. Maggie Steber and Scott Thode will lead the Project Critique Sessions to help students edit and develop working photography projects.

"Other highlights include our "Masters Talks" series with presentations by Simon Bruty, Yolanda Cuomo, Eugene Richards, Callie Shell, George Steinmetz, and Philip Toledano.  Getty Images is sponsoring the US premiere of the 2009 World Press Photo exhibit at LOOK3 this year. (World Press Photo receives support from the Dutch Postcode Lottery and is sponsored worldwide by Canon and TNT.) Paolo Pellegrin will mount a special outdoor show created just for LOOK3, and nature photographer Tom Mangelsen's majestic images will hang from the trees along the downtown pedestrian mall.

Pigeons On Broadway, 1982, ©Sylvia Plachy

"With 3 days filled with exhibitions, outdoor projections, film screenings, on-stage interviews, and special events, LOOK3 creates the perfect setting to share ideas and be inspired.  Attendees will be surrounded by photography - in the trees, projected in storefront windows and on buildings, and in all the galleries. BE PART OF IT!

"For more information and to buy passes, visit www.look3.org

"Enjoy the Festival!

"Your Friends at FotoWeek DC"

A 12th Grade Reason to Be
At Critical Exposure's "Through the Lens" Tonight

Photo and Essay (posted below) by Byron

Adam Levner, one of the founders of Critical Exposure, just sent me the following essay and I was so moved, I wanted to post this right away.  If you are attending the 4th annual "Through The Lens" reception, tonight, I can assure you will be impressed.  Please take lots of pictures tonight and share your thoughts with me tomorrow!

This exhibit will be open at the ARTiculate Gallery until May 15th and can be viewed tonight, of course, but also M - F from 10am - 6pm.  More info:  www.criticalexposure.com

Now, before you jump up to get ready, please take a minute to read the following small essay...

A VISION SO CLEAR WITH A SOUND SO FAINT
Byron (12th Grade)
Spingarn STAY Senior High School
 
I put a photo of my brother on the keys of an open piano and took the picture.  To me it represents what my brother stood for.  My brother graduated, so it says “Graduation Picture 2006,” and it also captures the music side of him that is also in me.  He graduated from Spingarn STAY, the same program I’m in. He graduated in 2006 before he got killed.
 
I’m going back to school because of my brother, actually.  Before he got shot he graduated from high school.  I made a promise to him that I was going to graduate so I enrolled in the same program as him in 2006.  But, later on that year, while I was in school, he got killed.  So I dropped out of school, I lost my focus, I couldn’t really concentrate. I’m just getting back in here because I know he wanted me to finish school, and I made him a promise that I would finish school and walk across that same stage that he walked across.  And I’m going to make sure that I fulfill my promise--
my word is my bond.