James Walker's Photo-media Takes Nothing for Granted

Information, descriptions and some beautiful sentences derived from a press release, courtesy of Shane Pomajambo and the folks at Art Whino.
Art by James Walker...of course.

First things, first, here's the low-down dirty...

WHAT:  The Art of James Walker
WHEN:  Friday, June 5th, from 6pm – Midnight
WHERE:  National Harbor, 173 Waterfront St., National Harbor, MD 20745
HOW MUCH:  The event is FREE and open to the public.
AND IF I CAN'T MAKE IT?:  Show runs until July 3rd.

Next Friday, June 5th, from 6 pm to Midnight, all are invited to celebrate the opening of The Art of James Walker. A local artist and photojournalist, his works are described as insightful and honest, reflecting on the current moment and fleeting nature of time. 

This exhibition does not just feature photography but also paintings, books, collage works all blending together as a collection of moments, insights and ideas that evolve from Walker’s constant documentation of the world around him. He describes his work as focused on the ideas of living in the present moment and never taking anything for granted.

Walker’s works strike a deeply personal chord
leaving viewers both lost in the moment
and somehow more aware of the present at the same time.

James Walker’s Artist Statement:
…..I never made a conscious decision to become an artist, it’s something I’ve always done for as long as I can remember, I make pictures and draw and paint and collage debris and objects as intuitively as possible and I’ve never specialized in anything except making the best art that I can and I don’t often think of myself as an artist but more of a sociologist or philosopher…..my background is in photojournalism and I take a documentary approach to everything I do with my work and I feel that my most successful images are ones that develop as a natural extension of existing

….all of my amalgamations are nothing more than a feverish attempt to create some sort of semi-tangible cohesion out of everyday experiences through obsessive collection of imagery and stories and adventures that I compile as the proof of life lived to bring a general awareness that every second exists for just that and at the same time facilitating this idea the only way I can, through my artwork, all of it being the cliff notes to my inclusion in this maelstrom of existence, examining the fact that everything is in a constant state of fluctuation, deterioration, and reconstruction, never lasting more than two blinks of an eye which may be why humans invented the concept of measuring time while we fruitlessly strive to sustain and avoid any contact with the inevitable thermodynamic deconstruction of our selves and everything we see as real and I’m enamored with the idea that everything is beautifully entropic and nothing will ever retain, permanently, its current physical form,

which is why I try be mindful of the present moment, the only thing that is not simulacra, without which we would have neither the future nor the past (both of which carry significance only as stubborn illusions), and with the realization that the present moment is the only thing that truly exists I gather information and juxtapose found treasures all decomposing and beautifully dancing in wonderful objectification with images in various states of archival-ness (frequently subconsciously depicting all too clearly our own frailty taken for granted) and I am helping to organize an introspection and focus that is easily lost in the cellularphonic espresso-paced world that I am also contently enveloped in, intensifying awareness of the swirling cacophony and freneticism of it all and all of the feelings and emotions colliding, and as I work I just let the chaos flow without judgment, acknowledging its existence as neither good nor bad, just that it is there, with hopes of creating nothing that is stale but instead just as alive as the subjects it depicts...

Rockstar Photographer

Article and above photo by Betsy Spruill Clarke. 
Second image of Erika by Michael Domingo. 
All other photography by Erika Horn...cause that's who the article is about, Silly!

This year, I was asked by Heart of America Foundation to put together a team of photographers to handle the paparazzi wall for Sweet Charity.  I was already planning on attending on behalf of DC Modern Luxury, so I was really stoked to get involved and called 4 pro-togs that I knew would really enjoy hamming it up for the evening, both at the door and along-side the catwalk.

I met Erika Horn, Founder/Photographer of Cozmik Photography, at Dahlak for the "I'm With the Band" opening.  She introduced me to a tool that I consider to be just as valuable as my lens...my Fong (flash diffuser).

"I love the details
that most people miss."

When she's not shooting, this kick-ass hot shot tends bar...DC's best female bartender, 2009, as a matter of fact!

Anyway, I knew she would be a perfect fit for getting everyone in red carpet mode!  In retrospect, she was running the show with a quiet confidence and a not-so-quiet big heart.  Erika also found the money spot, next to the catwalk, which--like a smart shooter--I followed right away!

Erika is truly a DC hot shot and most definitely someone to know, whether you're a photographer or have a love for photography.

As a photographer, it's hard to pinpoint your favorite shot from an event and understandably so.  I asked her to share with me her favorite from her Sweet Charity collection and she sent me the above, "The shot Sweet 392 - I love details that most people miss."

"I feed off the inspiration I get from the musicians' energy & music."

As stated before, she specializes in music photography, which--in this event photographer's opinion--makes you one hell of an event photographer.  She works mostly with local bands and their live performances and CD release parties.  Her most recent shoots include Oddzar, as the official documentary photographer,  The Flaming Lips at the Green Apple Festival, and even Disco Biscuits at the 9:30 Club with John Lee guest starring.

As it often goes, sometimes it is easy to fall in a rut, as a photographer, and just photograph the same thing, over and over, especially with concert photography.  Erika's method to keeping things fresh, "I feed off the inspiration I get from the musicians' energy & music."

And even though she's romantically linked to local rocker John Lee, it's her reputation as a true documentarian--capturing what is real, raw and easy to miss--that serves as her proverbial backstage pass.

A photojournalist at heart, Erika's "pilgrammage" is Rolling Thunder, which happens every year on Memorial Day weekend. You can check out her site for details as she does post her "itinerary."  Oh, and take a look at the portfolio, too, while you're there!

www.cozmikphotography.com

Erika Horn photos featured:
1. Sweet Charity
2. Oddzar cd release show at the Recher Theater in Baltimore, Md March 27th.
3. Green Apple Festival on the Mall DC, April 19th, The Flaming Lips
4. Disco Biscuits at the 9:30 Club featuring John Lee April 20th

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.

May Events & A Call For Contributors...



Pictured from left to right: ROW 1--Erika Horn, Christopher Chen, Random-Guy-Who-Pops-Up-In-My-Shots-At-Various-Events; ROW 2--Betsy Spruill Clarke, DC Shot List yo!, Adam Clarke; ROW 3--Dakota Fine, Random-Guy-Again-Seriously-Who-Is-This-Dude?, and Martin Locraft.

A Couple of Hot Shots, if You Will

Well, these aren't the only events for this month, so I will keep this updated throughout this month.  But I wanted to get this out, ASAP, so you know where to find the best eye candy!

Before I share the goods, I want to call out for contributors.  If you are interested in covering any one of these events for DC Shot List, please shoot me an email!  I want to talk to you, today.  foto.maven@gmail.com

Okay, now, mark your calendars...

Wednesday
May 6
6:30pm - 9:00pm

Critical Exposure's "Through the Lens of D.C. Youth" Photography Exhibit
Host: Critical Exposure

Where: ARTiculate Gallery, 1100 16th St. NW (16th & L), Washington, DC

Who: For the past year, D.C. youth and young adults have been given cameras, workshops in documentary photography, and the opportunity to record the causes, consequences and solutions to the dropout crisis in D.C. public schools.

Why: Because D.C.’s dropout rate is too high to ignore--nearly 50%, a number that has serious implications for both the youth themselves and the community as a whole.  Also, there will be:
-Great Photos – See powerful photos & writing by local students, and get the chance to talk to them about their work.
-Food & Drink – Make a donation of $35+ and enjoy free wine, beer and food.
-A Good Cause – All proceeds will support Critical Exposure, a D.C.-based nonprofit that teaches students how to use documentary photography and their own voices to advocate for school reform and social change.

Suggested Donations:
$35 Snapshooter: Cost of a 35-mm point-and-shoot camera.
$75 Shutterbug: Cost of exhibiting two students' photographs.
$150 Photo Pro: Cost of providing one student with a digital camera.
$500 Photojournalist: Cost of 1,000 photo postcards to send to policymakers.

Info: +1.202.745.3745 or info@criticalexposure.org or www.criticalexposure.org

Above right photo by Jaime Windon.
 

Friday
May 8
7:00pm - 10:00pm

The New Color
An exhibition of Corcoran photography majors
Host: Civilian Art Projects

Where: 87FLORIDA at 87 Florida Avenue, NW, Washington, DC

Who:  Featuring Corcoran photography majors: Jake Dingman, Carrie Greenwood, William Knipscher, Caitlin Lennon, Collin Sundt, Michelle Yo

Why:  Because new speaks to you!  As Andy Grundberg writes in the foreword to the exhibition’s catalog, “every generation has the opportunity to create new art that speaks to its particular moment in history and culture.” The New Color displays six artists’ take on that moment as seen through the rich possibilities of light recorded on color film – a rapidly disappearing discipline in the digital era.

Info: +1.202.347.0022 or info@civilianartprojects.com or www.civilianartprojects.com

Above right photo:  "Undiscovered 4," by Collin Sundt 

Inked Souls Closing and B-Boy Battle
Host: Art Whino Gallery

When: Saturday, May 9, 2009; 6:00pm - 11:55pm 

Where: Art Whino, 2450 Crystal Drive, Arlington, VA

Who: DJ Fleg in the house plus featured Photographers: Lady Glock, Michael Colon, James Walker , Roger Snider

Why:  Because you feel jipped on the 3rd sequel to "Breakin," or lack thereof, and you want to come out and see Breakers Battle 3 versus 3 for a $600 in Cash and Prizes.

Info: info@artwhino.com or www.artwhino.com

Why DC Shot List?

Photo by loving and supportive husband, Adam Clarke

'Scuze the Jay-Z reference in the title but I felt a line from Public Service Announcement to be apropos, since DC Shot List has been going on for a few months.  Also, I've been listening to Dangermouse's Grey Album all day today.  If you haven't heard it, it's a fabulous mash-up of Jay-Z's Black Album and The White Album by The Beatles.  But I digress...

My name is Betsy Spruill Clarke, otherwise known as Foto Maven, as deemed by the gmail email I have been using ever since gmail came about.  Whatever, call me Betsy.  I am a photographer, a publicist and now a blogger.

Why DC Shot List?

"*Belch* Why not!?!?!"  -Bluto from National Lampoon's Animal House

As I have been telling people over the past months of social marketing the blog, DC Shot List is DC's hot list of all things photography.  This includes photographers-pro and art, galleries, exhibitions, events, etc.  As you may or may not be aware, DC's photography industry and market is very saturated and this blog aims to sort through it all.

The mission of DC Shot List is 3 fold:  to help Washington, DC stake it's rightful claim of being THE city of photography; to shine a light on the best photographers and supporters; and to motivate networking among DC's photographers, purveyors and photo-fanatics.

How did DC Shot List come about?  Being in the photography business since 2000, I've observed that there are two types of photographers in the industry:  those who are territorial, closed off to others and feel that they know all there is to know about imaging; and those who are open to networking, sharing referrals and never accept that they have learned enough. 

I have seen overpaid photographers who are jaded and could care less about fostering a new generation of up-and-comers.  I have also seen many lesser-known photographers who produce incredible composition and quality and live for the next shoot.

On this site, you will read about the latter and whether you are a motivated photographer or someone who's looking for a true hot shot, a great night out at a fantastic photo-art event or even an exhibit to cruise, I think you will find benefit in the content. 

I promise, to the best of my abilities, to give you open and honest reviews about shows around town, give you the heads up on fun events, spotlight photographers and photo-supporters worth knowing.  And, even though this isn't a me me me site, I will occasionally put up my own photography from some events around town, when I'm able.  So, if I took a photo of you at an event, this might be the spot to check it out. :)

I want to hear from you.  Your opinions on the site, articles, photography, even photographers. If you know of events around town, know of sites and other photographers that I should check out, or even feel like you want to be seen, too, I'm all ears.  Please share! 

You can contact me through flickr, email foto.maven@gmail.com, facebook, twitter, whatever.  You might also have a good chance of running into me at many events around town.  At any rate, hope to see or hear from you soon!