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!

Phresh Fotos From WPA's SynchroSwim Event

 
One of the Uprooted Dance synchronized swimmers.  Photo by Adam Clarke.  Slideshow and link to photos follow the article.

Written by Betsy Spruill Clarke. Photography by Adam and Betsy Clarke.

Well, it's not photography related, but I know there are some DC Shot List readers who attended this and would like to see some photographs. 

A synchronized swimming showcase and competition, WPA SynchroSwim took place at the Capitol Skyline Hotel pool on Sunday, July 19th, from 6 - 7pm.  There was also an experimental video, curated by Brandon Morse and presented by Conner Contemporary Art.  This was on display for a few more hours after the competition.

SynchroSwim was presented in conjunction with a series of video lounge / poolside art projects hosted by The RUBELL FAMILY COLLECTION + Conner Contemporary Art at the Capitol Skyline Hotel.

And, by the way, poolside earlybirds got to partake in Sunday barbeque with chef Spike Mendelsohn (from Top Chef) for only $10.  Adam and I could not make it prior to 6, but we hear it was spectacular. 

Poolside was packed, so Adam and I got whatever photos we could from our vantage points.  I tried to focus on getting shots of the swimmers before and after, while Adam had a better view of the competition and was getting some action imagery. 

Other photographers on the scene of note--Max Cook, Meaghan Gay.  From what Max described, I think he had a front row seat, so I'm sure he got some sweet opportunity.   And Meaghan's photos can be viewed on www.dcist.com. I've seen one of them and it is fabulous, so I can't wait to see the others!

NOW, about the "Elephant in the Room..." during the competition, Adam nudged me and said "Who are these jackasses?"  Apparently, this group to the left of us were heckling the performers.  Later on we found out it was the cast for "The Real World, DC."  Well, that explained why the video operator just stayed in that area...he worked for them.  Whatever.  And whatever brings the crowd. 

Capitol Skyline Hotel is fabulous, by the way.  Sexy decor.  I think I might go back to take shots during the week.  Just fabulous. 

Special thanks to Lisa Gold for the nudge that "Hey, I think you might really like shooting this!" :)  We loved it.  And speaking of "we," special thanks to Adam Clarke, my husband and talented photographer, who came with me and got some fabulous shots as well.

Enjoy, enjoy, enjoy.

July 4th, 2009:  DC Shot List's Picks for

the Unique, Interesting or Unusual July Fourth Shots

July 4th, 2009, photograph by John Ulasek.

Almost two weeks ago, DC Shot List put out a call to readers for photos of the unique, unusual or interesting persuasion.  We received some fantastic ones back and thank you for that.  The following is a mini gallery of the best pulls from the overall response.

Check out the talent!  The explanations for DC Shot List selecting them are below each picture.  Oh, and if you see anything you like, just click on their name to see their website!

John Ulasek

Because of course there will be fireworks on Independence Day!  And you see John's work featured at the beginning of this gallery, too. (Do we also spot Christopher Chen taking a shot at the viewer in that photo, by the way?) 
The Shot List couldn't make a decision between the two.  Both have Ulasek's "in-the-moment-of-the-moment" feel.

Rob Fredley

Another bottle rocket shot, but from the eye of Rob Fredley. 
This is a fantastic shot because it is the quintessential final moment of a seemingly quiet and serene scene.

Amanda McLean

Yes, yes, yes, we have seen fireworks photography...but there is something about this one in particular...a high fStop resulting in crisp focus in fore and back grounds? Or could it be the color and the detail of the memorial?  Or the color mixed with the boats?  Something very bewitching about this...

Meaghan Gay





Hesitant to break them up, DC Shot List wants to show you all three with the favorite being the first one.  There is something to be said about a fleeting moment of absolute bliss.  The big deal to adults is the three day weekend...but the big deal to kids is so much more...conquering the deep end of swimming pools, getting to eat as many chips as you want with your hot dogs, swinging as high as you can go, with Mom or Dad giving you a boost...and all of this with no worry to this young lady as to how she will get the Murphy Project finished in time for Monday morning's huddle up meeting.

Katie Harbarth

Sometimes it's not the viewpoint that makes it creative, but how the actual photo flows upon itself.  In this case, Katie has put together a concept that seems to invite the eye to stay in perpetual motion with the shot.

Jon Haber

For this Fourth of July Weekend, Jon went to the Capital and took shots of the dome.  Jon is very skilled putting together photomontages, digitally, as well as digital painting - a creative use of filters.  If you look closely at this picture, you will notice several interesting things.  Not every window, moulding, etc is the same.

M. Adam Clarke

Remember the firefly shot from last week?  (If not, it is featured below) Well, this was shot by Betsy's husband, M. Adam Clarke, as she was making that shot.  This is interesting, in particular, because of the comparison a viewer can make on the light exposure needs for the goal of the image.  Plus, the composition is very Arnold Newman.  That makes DC Shot List smile.

Fourth of July Fireflies, 2009, Betsy Spruill Clarke

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!"

Sign Up and Support or Be Supported

By Betsy Spruill Clarke

Okay, so, being that I have 2 shoots today--one a gig and one for DC Shot List--as well as the fact that I'm behind on finishing 2 other projects AND I haven't written in DC Shot List in a week and a half, I woke up at 3AM with a head full of worries.  So, among loads of laundry, transferring photos, and re-writing contracts, I jumped on Facebook just to catch up and see what's new in the photography community and discovered that today is the official online opening of Talenthouse - an online arts community.

My friend, Kate Michael, who is one of the hosts of The District Dish as well as Examiner columnist and friend, revealed in her article "Move Over MySpace?" that this new site designed to "aid emerging and established artists and assist in creating an online creative collaboration," will go live today (June 30)!

According to Kate, Talenthouse's alpha phase has already rolled in 25,000 artists--including the likes of curator Dan Cameron as well as model Naiomi Cambell.  Also endorsed by Jay-Z, Talenthouse was started by British recording artist Amos Pizzey with a goal to inspire collaborative work.

Though similar sites, such as Creative Hotlist and Washington Project for the Arts (WPA), are already on top of this initiative, there is always room for more.  Creative Hotlist, by Communication Arts Magazine, is more of a hybrid between a job board and an online community for graphic designers, illustrators, photographers, etc.  Creative Hotlist also charges to display a portfolio, whereas Talenthouse and WPA do not.

Both Talenthouse and WPA offer the opportunities for artists and art supporters to meet, share portfolios and collaborate on projects--perfect for those who have been hesitant about MySpace, Facebook, etc. but desire to network amongst the art community and supporters.  However, both are different in their own way.  Talenthouse offers a more global networking format, whereas WPA has the DC (and I would argue East Coast) region covered.

I did sign up and you can see my half-assed page at www.talenthouse.com/fotomaven although I would recommend waiting a few days until I've had time to make it a full-assed page ;) adding the usual info, as well as some of my projects that I've been working on, especially my portrait portfolio.

In the meantime, I strongly encourage any and all artists and supporters to create your profiles.  Shoot them my way!  Lemme see whatcha got!

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.

Flaunt Fashion Show, A Sold Out Success

Article and Images by Shawn Duffy, http://shawnduffy.com

Undeterred by traffic and closed streets, hundreds of people in DC's art community descended on the Honfleur Gallery Saturday night to participate in the culmination of the "Flaunt: A Photography & Fashion Collaboration" exhibition. 

Flaunt launched at the Honfleur Gallery on April 25 and features the collaborative work of local photographers Meaghan Gay, Joshua Yospyn, John Ulaszek, and Steve Goldenberg, along with DC fashion designers Taimur Baig, Lara Akinsaya, Dana Greaves, and Will Sharp. 

While the exhibition had already proven to be a success, Flaunt organizers Ten Miles Square and Project Beltway, took it up a notch by producing a full-scale fashion show on Saturday night. 

The runway show featured work from the Flaunt exhibition designers while the Flaunt photographers enjoyed a front-row seat.

The featured photographers were some of the only people sitting, however. 

Since the show had sold out by Friday afternoon, gallery was standing-room only by the time the first model hit the runway a little before 9:30pm.

After viewing the great photos and fashion, each of the show's attendees must have left Honfleur certain that DC's fashion scene is just as vibrant and full of talent as anywhere else.

Congratulations to the designers, photographers, models, volunteers, and organizers for a truly memorable show!

ABOUT SHAWN DUFFY

Shawn is a freelance photojournalist based in the Washington, DC Metro area, who has traveled and shot in locations such as India, the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Ireland, France, and DC.

Currently pursuing projects in the Washington, DC area, Shawn plans to be traveling again to Israel/Palestine in mid-2009.  Though he finances all of his own projects and travel, donations to assist him in his work are greatly appreciated.

For more information or to contact Shawn directly, please visit his website at http://shawnduffy.com.

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!