Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "photography"

A walk by the River

2012-02-07T22:43:45Z

With a beautiful late winter Saturday afternoon to fill, I decided to take my two boys out for a walk by the river. I like the area by Sutters' Landing at 28th/B for it's accessibility and the proximity of the skateboard/bocce/dog parks. The water level is very low and all the tracks and trails were available for wandering.

I took along my two cameras - the new, a Nikon D90 and the old, an Olympus OM4Ti with a 24mm lens. I haven't used the Olympus in a while and wanted to do a comparison by taking some side-by-side images. Also to check if the light seals were still intact - seven years of storage can make them rot.

It was perfect weather for a stroll, the ground was dry, the sun not too hot and the boys had a great time; running, hunting, finding stuff, playing with sticks, messing in the water - I on the other hand, had plenty of time to look at the scenery and take some snaps.

Rule #1 of old-style film photography had obviously escaped me - check that you have enough film in the camera!

I took one shot with the Olympus and that was it - run out of film! The Nikon, of course, had over 200 more images possible, even at my overkill image quality settings (Large, Highest quality RAW and JPGs). That reminds me - I found the oddest thing about using the film camera again was that I kept forgetting to wind the film on!.

Anyway, here are the pictures I took. There was no wind so the trees reflected beautifully. While editing, I rotated some of them 90° to make some wonderful Rorschach-like images.Here's one:

The light was nice at the end of the day, I didn't have to do much to the images beyond cropping and a little contrast adjustment. Anyway, enjoy my pictures and take a stroll out to Sutters Landing yourself some fine day!

Intro to Photojournalism Workshop Feb. 21

2012-02-07T01:08:27Z

Photographs are an important part of storytelling and can often tell a story on their own. After a brief workshop hiatus, our first Sacramento Press workshop for 2012 will be on photojournalism. (The Journalism Open workshop wasn't a typical workshop for us.)

John Hernandez will teach an introductory photojournalism workshop from 6:30 - 8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21 at the Sacramento Press office called "Introduction to Photojournalism."

Hernandez is a Sacramento-based photographer. He has professional experience in wedding, portrait and social documentary photography as well as various multimedia platforms, including audio slideshows. He has freelanced for ABS-CBN, a Filipino American news channel, and interned at The Sacramento Press. He has a journalism degree and Asian American studies minor from San Francisco State University.

He will discuss photojournalism – what it is and what it isn’t. Hernandez will also talk about equipment, tips for shooting and demonstrate how to make an audio slideshow.

Our office is located at 431 I St., Suite 107, in the Sacramento Valley Station station. We are in the same building complex as Starbucks.

We recommend you find parking on the street, bike or take light rail, as the Amtrak parking lot charges, and we cannot cover the cost of parking.

To RSVP, email workshops@sacramentopress.com. If you RSVP and decide later not to attend, please send us an email to notify us that you will not be coming so we can have an accurate head count.

Thanks, and we hope to see you here!

Broadacre Coffee debuts live music

2012-01-30T03:27:35Z

Broadacre Coffee hosted their first live music night this past Friday night, featuring the musical talents of Exquisite Corps and Garrett Pierce, along with dj sets by Nico Turner and Sister Crayon's Terra Lopez and Dani Fernandez. Over 100 people turned out for the all ages show, making it a huge success. The next show at Broadacre will be February 24, so mark it on your calendars!

Doom Bird Performs The Crocker Art Museum's Thursdays 'Til 9 Series

2012-01-25T22:27:09Z

A Visual Discussion on Poverty and Social Identity

2012-01-15T01:17:08Z

The Sacramento Art History Consortium (SAHC) opened in December the exhibition “Latin American Photography: The Realities of Poverty and Social Identity.” After a two-year effort SAHC has brought together the work of 13 international photographers who have demonstrated a true commitment to Latin America. Showing now in Sacramento State University Library Gallery, the work of renowned photojournalists such as Joaquin Sarmiento, Jeronimo Arteaga, and Jan Sochor are being exhibited to engage audiences in the visual discussion about poverty and social identity.

The exhibition features photographs that convey the situation of a region that has been subjected to years of political and economic struggle by showing how the perpetuation of poverty across decades has created a unique way of life, where poverty is not a transitory state, but a defining element in the life of a person. The intention behind this particular topic is not to promote pity or patronize the peoples of Latin America by framing them under a series of stereotypes and prejudices, but to reveal the spirit, attitude, and courage with which people characteristically deal with everyday life. The curatorial group has chosen the topic of poverty with the intention to explore the impact of art in helping repair social fractures by creating awareness of the situation of others.

Moreover, the exhibition brings into discussion the role of social photojournalism in conveying truth while exposing both the ethical and ethnographic responsibilities of photographic representation. To address the challenges of photojournalism, including the visual saturation that we all face when it comes to seeing poverty and crisis in the world today, SAHC's curatorial group carefully chose 37 works to give us an idea of the environment and situation of those who are distant and different from us. Most of the photographers are from different countries in Latin American with the exception of a few, who being "outsiders" provide a balance to the stories that this touching and educational show provides by convening different points of view in this fascinating conversation about the realities of poverty and social identity. The exhibition is not only a good photography show but also an interactive experience in the sense that it invites visitors to not be passive consumers of social photography but to actively engage with the stories here conveyed and the people that are being represented.

The exhibit will be open until March 10th at the Sacramento State University Library Gallery and an exhibition catalogue has also been published, which is available for purchase at the website. For more information contact SAHC at info@sacramentoarthistory.org or visit them at www.sacramentoarthistory.org

Disclosure: Sara Garzon is the Executive Director of SAHC and curator of the exhibition.

Bikers rally at the Capitol

2012-01-11T19:42:12Z

Two bills were on bikers’ minds Monday as they rallied at the Capitol.

Hundreds of California motorcyclists, drivers and passengers, showed up for the yearly motorcycle rally sponsored by the American Brotherhood Aimed Towards Education (ABATE) Monday morning.

They gathered on the Capitol building’s south-side in support of two bills that would change the state’s helmet law and throw out the motorcycle-only checkpoints.

Legislators were scheduled to vote Monday afternoon after rally.

For results, CLICK HERE>>>

Emotion in music

2012-01-10T02:11:26Z

Ricky Berger pours out her heart and soul through her music at Harlow's on November 25, 2011.

Minus the Bear: Ten Year Anniversary Tour

2011-11-09T02:49:11Z

With the cover art pattern used on their seminal debut LP, "Highly Refined Pirates," as their backdrop, and a light show on acid, Seattle's Minus the Bear thrilled a packed house at Ace of Spades on Monday night.

The band is wrapping up their 10 Year Anniversary Tour, celebrating a decade of music and performing “Pirates,” released in 2002, in its entirety.

The popular math-rockers put on a tremendous performance for a very jazzed audience. Featuring guitarist Dave Knudson's signature complex finger-tapping guitar work - used on every song on “Pirates,” the band combined powerhouse indie band swagger with down-to-earth Northwestern charm.

Songs like "Absinthe Party at the Fly Honey Warehouse" and "Thanks for the Killer Game of Crisco Twister," which sound good and maybe even a little quirky when recorded, gained heft and intensity when played live. During "'Absinthe," a flashing light sequence kicked in when the verses turned into the more up-tempo choruses. This complemented the music perfectly, although for much of the show, three thin light panels backlighting the band were a bit much and a bit distracting.

"We've been playing our first album across the country," said Snider. "This is the third to last show of the tour. It's been a fucking awesome ten years and thank you Sacramento for being a part of it!"

Opening for Minus the Bear was Santa Rosa's, The Velvet Teen.

Photos by Steven Chea

Thrice tour stops at Ace of Spades

2011-11-08T06:40:20Z

It was a nearly sold-out show at Ace of Spades Sunday night. Thrice, hailing from Irvine, Calif., headlined an excellent post-hardcore bill.

Opening for a healthy-sized audience was the band, Moving Mountains, an intriguing group of musicians who captured the room's attention immediately. With a complex and multi-layered sound, their atmospheric rock songs set a great tone for the rest of the night.
Atlanta-based O'Brother was musically in the same vein; a melodic three-guitar sonic assault marrying the atmospheric with the distorted. A solid showing, but when they went ambient, they went ambient. At times they seemed to meander as some songs drifted slowly past the five minute mark.

Main support was La Dispute, a very impressive five-piece band from Grand Rapids, Mich.

"It's been about a year since we've been out to the West Coast, and that's an absolute crime, because I don't know if there's a place where we have a better time," said appreciative vocalist Jordan Dreyer.

Fist around microphone and microphone cable wrapped around fist, the barefoot and constantly moving Dreyer shouted his spoken-word style lyrics with raw intensity, complemented perfectly with delicately explosive rhythm and powerful, technical guitar work.
A comparison to defunct frenetic El Paso, Tex. band, At The Drive-In, is easy to make because of Dreyer's voice, delivery and the chaotic harmony of the music. On the other hand, the easier-to-swallow guitar melodies and Dreyer's realistic, confessional lyrics are a couple of areas that set this band apart.

"It’s only temporary, that fleeting feeling of warmth. Just a flash before the line gets blurry. Between a longing for more than what the body wants now and what the body wants now more than anything."
Thrice has been around for thirteen years and has a serious and passionate following. To a new fan, the anticipation was thick in the air and when the band took the stage the release from the crowd was palpable.

Opening strong with lead track, "Yellow Belly," from their new album “Major/Minor,” their set was heavy on critically well-received new material, including "Promises," "Call It In The Air" and "Treading Paper." They also played a number of tracks from 2009's “Beggars;” among them, "All The World Is Mad," "The Weight," "In Exile" and "Circles;" taking the audience on a journey through the different styles and nuances the band has experienced lyrically and musically up to this point in their career.

It was clear the older material was held in high regard; the frenzied crowd and their pumping fists were jolted with energy when the band played tracks from 2003's “The Artist in the Ambulance.”

Fans come and go as bands experiment and mature, and after hearing the music and speaking with some fans, Thrice is doing a good job of continuing to delight as they evolve musically.

"The music, the beats, everything," said Sara Molina, 25, of Dixon. "Everything meshes together; their music is amazing!"

The guys in Thrice are also humanitarians, and took a moment to raise awareness about Invisible Children, a group they support and one that is currently on tour with them.

Invisible Children is a movement seeking to end the conflict in Uganda and stop the abduction of children for use as child soldiers. The band specifically asked for support in building radio towers in the Congo for communication directly with the child soldiers in an effort to bring them home. Kudos to Thrice for using their platform to inspire change and educate others about a worthy cause.

Photos by Steven Chea

Behind the Scenes: Dia de los Metros’ Photo Shoot

2011-11-06T22:14:13Z

Last Sunday, situated among a lavish backdrop of flowers at the Capitol Rose Garden in downtown Sacramento an eclectic assembly of photographers, models, hair-stylists, and make-up artists gathered for a special photo-shoot. The theme for the shoot was “Day of the Dead”.

The Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) is a Mexican holiday where family and friends pray for and remember friends and family members who have died. The celebration takes place November 1st and 2nd to coincide with the Catholic holidays of All Saints Day (November 1) and All Souls Day (November 2).

In many American communities with Mexican residents, Day of the Dead celebrations are held that are very similar to those held in Mexico. Many festivals begin with the All Souls Procession and combines elements of traditional Day of the Dead celebrations with those pagan harvest festivals. People wearing masks or painted faces carry signs honoring the dead and an urn in which people can place slips of paper with prayers on them to be later burned.

Benancio Garza (20), a student at American River College and Equality Action NOW, a local civil rights organization board member and youth leader who also dabbles in modeling jumped at the chance to become involved in this project. “I am excited to be a part of such a large collaborative effort. I love art that has meaning and I am hoping this project will touch the lives of many people who see it.”

The idea of the shoot came from a professional photographer, who also happens to be on the board of Equality Action NOW, Vihil Heather Vigil. “Dia de Los Muertos honors the cycle of life and in particular ancestors, friends, and others who were inspirational or affected our lives in some manner,” said Vigil.

“Last year I had the amazing experience of being in Patzcuaro, Michoacan, Mexico for Dia de Los Muertos. To see an entire country decorating and celebrating left such an imprint that I can't ever see myself not celebrating this very special occasion. As a Native American and a Latina it is a part of my culture to celebrate and not focus on the death of someone who passes, instead we celebrate their life.”

Vihil of Vihil Photographix Fine Art Photography explained what she will do the photographs after the shoot. “The photographs are going to be crafted for large size 20x30+ inch prints. There are three galleries who have already expressed interest in the final images for potential exhibitions; we will be doing a calendar and possibly a book. I really like putting table top photography books together of my work it allows the viewer to become more personal with all the various images contained within.”

While some of the models arrived on the set already make-up, Garza had his own professional stylist team meet him an hour prior to the shoot on site. Shane Howell and his partner, Joe Jaramillo together own Roots Hair Salon in downtown Woodland. Howell and Jaramillo, who also are in a domestic partnership, moved from San Francisco where they are both well-known and have attended the city’s popular “Day of the Dead” festivals for years.

Ben’s friend and modeling manager, Ken Pierce contacted the talented couple because, “This photo-shoot is important for Ben’s future in modeling and I didn’t want an amateur stylist working on his hair and make-up. Joe and Shane are perfect because they are super talented and their experience with attending ‘Day of the Dead’ festivals is invaluable.”

Garza was the only male model on the set among fifteen female models that afternoon so getting photographed by the four photographers who will all be sharing their work with Vigil was not a problem. Kati Garner, a well-known local photojournalist and photographer for Equality Action NOW had a field day working with Garza on the set. “Benancio is a natural and my camera is in love with him. He is so easy to work with and only needs a little direction to get the shots I want from him. I think he will mature as a model rather quickly and will soon be in demand once people see the work he did today.”

By sunset thousands of pictures were taken of the models who were not paid but will be used by them for their own professional portfolios. This was Garza’s second modeling gig. The first was for Sacramento’s Q Magazine. While his focus will continue to be working with the youth through his civil rights organization, attending school, Garza hopes to find more opportunities to model for fashion photography and perhaps try his hand in on a fashion show runway.

To find out more about where to view the “Day of the Dead” photos contact Vihil Heather Vigil on her web site or email Ms_Vihil@yahoo.com. To contact Benancio Garza you can email his manager, Ken Pierce at kpierce8272@yahoo.com. For information about Joe and Shane of Roots Hair Salon contact Joe Jarmamillo at joe.p.jaramillo@gmail.com.

Movement: A photo essay of the Sacramento Valley Station

2011-11-06T21:45:57Z

It’s as if the ghosts of all those who have traveled through these halls before us can still be heard... I find myself yet again walking through empty rooms that echo not only my footsteps, but the seeming sounds of the past

The Sacramento Valley Station finds itself as a hub of transportation for the Sacramento area. Currently serving as an intermodal complex, the facility includes Amtrak, light rail, regional bus services and taxi amenities.

The public portions of the building are those that many are familiar with such as the main hall, or passenger waiting area, where customers purchase tickets or pass through to the facilities outside to the north. Outside are the bus berths, passenger tunnel and platforms, areas for taxis, and of course the rail lines themselves.

What the public doesn’t see are the dilapidated and crumbling rooms, once used as restaurants and offices. Light rich rooms, these areas have moods all to themselves. A large main hall that was used as a restaurant area reverberates densely as the building creaks and moans. Smaller offices are calm and quiet in their desolation.

They all sit empty, unusable due to their lack of upkeep, failure to meet building codes and absence of basics, such as elevators, restrooms and heating and cooling systems.

The building, constructed in 1926, marked the terminus of the first Transcontinental Railroad. Over the years, neglect of the facilities took its toll on the aging walls. The materials, though of quality, have simply outlived their life span.

The building itself qualifies as a historic property under the National Historic Preservation Act and is listed in historic registers, including the California Register of Historical Resources and National Register of Historic Places, among others.

More recently the City has put forth a federal grant application, with hopes of receiving approximately 28 million dollars of leverage money. The funds will go towards revitalizing the entire facility, to make use of the 53,000 square feet of space not being used and rehabilitating the historic features.

In the meantime, the City is now retrofitting the station to meet current standards for earthquake safety, as well as adding upgrades for people with disabilities, using an already granted sum of $11 million in federal and state monies.

Disclosure: Carlos Eliason is a photographer/videographer and designer working in the Sacramento area. He is also a creative media intern for the City of Sacramento.

Photos: Foo Fighters at Power Balance Pavilion

2011-11-03T01:24:42Z

After an original Oct. 20 show date that had to be rescheduled, alt-rock powerhouse Foo Fighters performed at Power Balance Pavilion on Tuesday night for about 10,000 fans.

Opening the show was fantastic L.A. punk band The Bronx, playing as their alter-ego Mariachi El Bronx, which is less a gimmick than you might think.

What started as a lark for the punk band has grown into a love that has seen the band release two mariachi albums and gain a following, and, yes, they stay true to the authentic mariachi style of music as well as wear black charro suits.

The band performs in a variety of ways, sometimes incorporating mariachi into their punk set, sometimes performing as a punk band and mariachi band on consecutive nights, and sometimes having one band open up for the other.

Following Mariachi El Bronx was Cage the Elephant from Bowling Green, Ky. The band found success with their 2009 single "Ain't No Rest for the Wicked" and have been touring constantly since then. Vocalist Matthew Schultz is known for stage diving at Cage performances, and this night was no exception.

"Promise me one thing," Schultz told the crowd from the stage. "If I jump into the crowd and get knocked unconscious, I want you to promise to keep passing my body around and having a good time!"

And then it was time for the rock.

With seven studio albums and tons of singles to their credit, the Foo Fighters had plenty of popular material to draw from.

Excited fans in the house received a high-energy 23-song rock 'n' roll set that lasted over two hours and was worth the wait.

Photos by Steven Chea.

Incubus Returns to Sacramento After Hiatus

2011-10-13T03:31:43Z

Raley Field was a rock venue for those who showed up Tuesday night for Incubus. Fans trickled to the front of the stage for opening artist AWOLNATION, leaving seats available for the mellow rockers who chose to sit over standing in the pit.

AWOLNATION’s loud, blood-rushing sound engulfed the eardrums of the early birds. They played songs off their debut album, “Megalithic Symphony,” including the radio hit single “Sail,” which was received by cheers.

The stage was set up at the outfield line allowing for better acoustics, harnessing the sound before it escaped into Sacramento River.
By 8 p.m., the surrounding stage area was packed and seats were filling up. Assigned seating was overlooked by eager fans, willing to sit anywhere to enjoy the multi-platinum headlining artist.

Without hesitation, Incubus opened up with “Megalomaniac” to get the crowd jumping, keeping the energy high for their two-hour set. Incubus is on tour to introduce their seventh studio album, “If Not Now, When?” The set list included new songs “Adolescents,” “Promises, Promises” and “Defiance,” but a majority of songs were from their past albums. Fans preferred a concert filled with their older songs, like “I Wish You Were Here,” “Anna-Molly” and “Dig,” delivered as smooth sounding as listening to them on your iPod.

Halfway through the concert, Boyd’s shirt was still on, and eager women continued to wait. Boyd’s vocals and the explosive guitar-to-drum ratio, with a side of DJ scratching, are what Incubus’ fans crave.

It’s been seven years since Incubus has toured Sacramento; the fans have waited five years for a new album to be released. Boyd commented on their absence, “It’s been too long, man. Missed you guys.” But Boyd generally refrained from chatting up the crowd. He let the music fill the void.

“In the Company of Wolves” was accompanied by the hypnotizing backdrop silhouette of Boyd’s power stance. Boyd showed off his vocals on “Talk Shows on Mute,” a song that is not overpowered by Jose Pasilla’s drums or Mike Einzeger’s heavy guitar.

After the audience sing-along to “Drive”, “the shirt” came off for the last songs of the night: “Nice to Know You” and a two-song encore of “Pardon Me” and “Tomorrow’s Food.” It wasn’t the strongest closing after such a nostalgic performance, but fans didn’t seem fazed.

Will fans have to wait another five years for another album? Let’s hope not, because after a decade, Incubus still has the capability to rock a crowd.

Photo courtesy of Steven Chea.

P.R. Brown's The Known and Travel exhibit

2011-10-04T08:26:28Z

Opening night of “The Known and Travel” gallery show took place during Beatnik Studios’ Final Friday. The opening for the P.R. Brown exhibit turned out to be a family affair that showcased the talents of the Brown family.

The Known and Travel exhibit also included a silent auction and wine tasting with proceeds going towards transforming the lives of orphaned and poverty-stricken children.

Several projects are supported by the nonprofit organization, 2Build 4Ward International. Friday’s event highlighted a major project, the building of an orphanage in Tuxpan, Jalisco, Mexico.

The UN estimates that over 10 million orphans live in Mexico and 2x4 International, operated by state workers, has partnered with communities to build an orphanage that will serve as a home for some of Tuxpan’s orphans.

Kristen Brown, CEO of 2x4 International, talked about the organization and the event.

“We started 2x4 International with workers who also work for the Department of Education and Department of Health and it’s completely volunteer work. One hundred percent of our proceeds go to our projects.”

Brown also spoke about work they’ve done in West Africa and other places. Information was displayed at the event. Several of the informational boards also featured artistic work by Brown’s sister Holly and their mother, Paula.

Kristen Brown’s work through 2x4 International is inspirational. Their work has also spread to projects in the Caribbean, where they built an educational center in Kingston, Jamaica. They’ve reached out to Ghana, West Africa with a clothes, book and toy drive for the Children’s Hospital and extended their work to other parts of Latin America, Japan and Africa with the Children’s Global Connection Project.

“Our major project is to build an orphanage,” said Brown. “We have three acres of land that was donated by Miguel de la Mora Morfin from Texas that’s located in Tuxpan in Jalisco and we have a Canadian architect committed to help with the project. One of the remaining things to acquire is the funds and that’s where the wine tasting and silent bidding will help.”

Having volunteered for the Peace Corps, Brown said that 2x4 International wanted to make sure money gets to the people. She helped create a nongovernmental organization in Mexico to distribute donated funds.

Several items are up for auction and will remain on the online bidding site until October 26. Log on to the website to view and bid on selected items.

As I walked around the gallery, many people viewed the artwork on the walls and placed bids on silent auction items. Complimentary appetizers were served along with a wide selection of wines. Raffle tickets for several gift baskets were also sold.

Besides being a photographer, P.R. Brown is also a graphic designer and Grammy nominated music video director. His exhibit showcased photography from his travels to India, Brazil and Cambodia, among other places. In the studio area of Beatnik a projector showed several videos that he directed. Highlighted videos included artists such as Slipknot, My Chemical Romance, Billy Corgan and many others.

P.R. Brown founded Bau-da Design Lab and much of his work can be found there. His works dig deep into the subconscious and inspire images of dark scenery and themes. P.R. Brown’s work is pretty intense and very interesting.

I talked to Greg Pond, gallery manager of Beatnik Studios, who then introduced me to P.R. Brown at the gallery. I was able to speak to him for a few minutes about his involvement in the event.

“My sister contacted me to see if I wanted to do a show and I said absolutely, so the photography exhibit that’s going on will stay up throughout the month and that’s my work. Other pieces are from another sister of ours and some are my mother’s. It’s a family affair.”

“I started as a graphic designer and I went into photography about 12 years ago and then into directing,” said Brown when asked how long he’s been working on his trade.

I asked what he directed and Brown explained.

“Music videos, commercials and I’m getting into features. Mainly the work that’s up here are the personal works that I do when I travel. It’s just me going out shooting. Other work is the fine arts side.”

Besides the travel photographs hanging on one side of Beatnik studios (on the left as you enter the building), there are other photographs on the right side of the gallery of fine arts created at his studio.

Brown is currently based out of Los Angeles and indicated he’s been there for 13 years. Brown lives in Topanga and his studio is in West Lake.

When asked if he’s had past showings or if he expects upcoming exhibits, Brown responded negatively.

“Honestly my sister was the driving force. I normally don’t show my work. I’m a commercial photographer and that’s what I do for a living and it never occurred to me that I should actually have a gallery show. This is only the second time I’ve ever done a gallery show. I did one for a Marilyn Manson album I did years ago.”

When asked which Manson album, Brown replied, “Holy Wood.” He continued, “I actually did all of them from ‘Antichrist’ through ‘Grotesque.’”

Brown also said that the woman photographed on a couple of the larger works on the right hand side of the gallery were of Marilyn Manson’s girlfriend.

Brown also said, regarding Manson, “He’s actually the reason I became a photographer because he was the first real person I ever shot.”

Brown went on to say that he moved from New York to L.A. to do the shooting and did a photo exhibit as a result. That was the only other time he’s done a gallery showing.

I asked him about his inspiration for the work he does and Brown indicated that he did not take photography classes and became involved out of frustration as a graphic designer. Some of the photography work was not suited for a project. Brown started to photograph images he wanted and fell in love with it. After graduating from college and 500 albums later, Brown picked up the camera and began using it for his art.

Brown is a fascinating artist. I could have gone for hours talking to him about his work. As I viewed P.R. Brown’s work on the gallery walls, I was drawn to the videos he’s directed and was fascinated by those as well.

Jerry Brown, Kristen and Paul’s father, was also on hand to show his support. Family support is always great to see and it showed the closeness of the Brown family.

Once the live auction came to a close, a drawing was held for several bottles of wine and gift baskets.

Live music was provided by Katie Jane, Exquisite Corps and Alyssa Cox. Katie Jane started off the evening on keyboards playing several songs. Her sunny disposition and sweet vocals came through, making for a delightful set.

The magnificent sounds of Exquisite Corps are always a delight to experience and many of their fans showed their support by attending the show. Exquisite Corps continues to be one of those bands that doesn’t disappoint and are always fun to watch. During their set, Bryan Valenzuela reminded fans that they were going to be performing during the SAMMIES with members from the Sacramento Ballet.

Alyssa Cox and The Flatland Band closed out the evening’s event. Many fans came close to the stage and cheered them on, showing their support. Alyssa Cox and the Flatland Band responded to fan support and put on a great show.

Final Fridays, hosted by Beatnik, is a great event for art and culture. In addition, some of Sacramento’s finest musicians come together to display their talents.

Representing Beatnik, Wes Davis and Greg Pond helped things go smoothly for artists and guests and provided a great atmosphere for this gathering.

The Known and Travel exhibit continues until October 26. Open online bidding will also continue until that date.

Next Saturday Beatnik Studios will host Second Saturday from 4 to 8 p.m. P.R. Brown’s exhibit will be showcased; check the Beatnik website for further information.

Drink Wine, Marvel at Art, Dance to Live Music all to Support Orphans in Mexico

2011-09-20T16:45:59Z

On September 30, 2011, at Beatnik Studios, aspects of Sacramento’s finest culture will come together to support a truly inspiring cause. From 5pm to 9pm entrance is free and guests can stroll the studio looking at P.R. Brown’s photography show “The Known and Travel” while noshing on appetizers. Wine lovers can purchase a souvenir glass for wine tasting and entrance into a gourmet gift basket raffle. 100% of the proceeds are directed towards transforming the lives of orphaned and poverty-stricken children. Guests can further show their support by bidding at the silent auction. After 9pm a suggested donation of $5-$10 is appreciated as the stage opens up to live performances from Katie Jane, Alyssa Cox, Step Jane, and Exquisite Corps.

Beatnik studios, located on 17th Street and Broadway, is known for supporting charitable causes. The nonprofit organization 2Build 4Ward International (2x4 International) is no exception. A group of California State Employees initiated the organization to bring attention and solutions to issues in developing countries. Their mission is to partner with community-based projects and disadvantaged groups to support education, health, infrastructure and small business development.

While the organization has already sent and shipped barrels of goods to a hospital in Ghana, this event will further their project to build an orphanage in Tuxpan, Jalisco Mexico. The organization has received a donation of land, a commitment from a Canadian architectural firm to the project, and the partnership of a local Mexican organization. Over half of Mexico’s population lives in poverty and the UN estimates that there are 10 million orphans living in Mexico.

The featured artist, P.R. Brown, is best known as a Grammy nominated music video director. Brown has worked with musicians such as John Mayer, Three Days Grace, The Smashing Pumpkins, Seal, Prince, Alicia Keys, Slipknot, Matisyahu, Goo Goo Dolls, and Death Cab for Cutie. His collection of travel photos and high fashion will be featured at Beatnik for the entire month of October.

For those interested in supporting 2x4 International’s cause, but cannot attend, online bidding for the silent auction photos can be accessed through their website. If you enjoy art, wine, music, and helping others, then come celebrate at 2x4 International’s first annual Wine and Art Event.

2x4 International is a registered 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation dedicated to development projects abroad. For further information please visit http://2x4international.blogspot.com

Disclosure: Chelsea Berg is the Fundraising/Volunteer Administrator with 2build 4ward international.

Radiant Mexican Singer Martha Toledo Debuts in Sacramento Wed., Sept. 21; Songs Speak of Respect and Dignity for Latin American Women

2011-09-16T22:02:32Z

Radiant Mexican Singer Martha Toledo Debuts in Sacramento; Songs Speak of Respect and Dignity for Latin American Women

La Raza Galería Posada, Sacramento’s nonprofit hub for Latino/Chicano and Native arts cultural programming, continues to bring rare,compelling and exciting music concerts to their intimate performance space in Midtown.

Martha Toledo is an internationally recognized performer whose commanding presence embodies the sensibility and majesty of the Oaxacan culture. A Zapotec singer from the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in southern Oaxaca, Mexico, her soulful sound evokes the pulsing, vibrant rhythm of her country's music legacy. Many of these songs carry the contemporary message of respect and dignity, particularly for Latin American women. With modern instrumentation and arrangements, Toledo brings a social awareness to her repertoire of classic and native songs. Guitarist José Roberto (Tabasco, México) described as a “blazing guitar stylist” will accompany her.

Wednesday, September 21, 2011
La Raza Galería Posada
1022 22nd St.
Sacramento, CA 95816
Showtime: 7:30 PM
$15 advance tickets on sale now at Brown Paper Tickets: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/191782
Gallery: (916)446-5133

You Tube video of Toledo: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBDeK-9MeBA&feature=related

“Her voice dances to the rhythm of the north wind, making her skirt and her cicada heart flutter. Her voice embodies the sounds of rivers and birds in the trees, starry skies, and moonlit nights from the Chimalapas rain forest that flow within her." -Arte Guede

Toledo also appears in the award-winning 2001 documentary film, Blossoms of Fire, directed by renowned Bay Area filmmaker, Maureen Gosling. “Blossoms of Fire is a dazzling, whirling dance of a film that celebrates the extraordinary lives of the Isthmus Zapotecs of southern Oaxaca, Mexico, whose strong work ethic and fierce independent streak rooted in their culture, have resulted not only in powerful women but also in the region's progressive politics and their unusual tolerance of alternative gender roles.” - IMDB

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MA8MmmrX-6s A screening of this film will be announced soon

Toledo has performed all over Mexico (including at the 10,000 seat National Auditorium in Mexico City), in northern California and throughout Austria. She has been featured twice at the Tamejavi Festival in Fresno, as well as in the Bay Area. She performed a cappella at the Lluvia de Sueños Concert of Indigenous Poets and Singers in Chiapas and other Mexican festivals. Toledo is also an excellent photographer, in the tradition of Graciela Iturbide and Mary Ellen Mark.

Disclosure: Submitted by Mindy Giles, music fan and publicist for La Raza Galería Posada

Looking In - Looking Out

2011-09-09T19:52:35Z

During the month of October 2011, E Street Gallery, 1115 E St., Sacramento, will host an exhibition entitled “Looking In – Looking Out" by Cherie Hacker, Carrie Markel, and Ann Tracy. (The three artists were partners in the former Midtown Asylum Gallery. Not only have they each worked with the window concept since the early 90s; they’re also long time friends.) The show opens October 6 and runs through November 5. E Street Gallery will host a preview reception on Thursday October 6, from 6-8:30pm and a 2nd Saturday reception will be held on Saturday October 8, 6-9pm. A closing reception is also scheduled November 5 from 6 to 8:30 pm.

Several years ago, Hacker and Tracy realized they were taking photos that related to each other in an ongoing process. “Looking In – Looking Out” is a culmination of images, Tracy shooting photos of windows from the outside looking in and Hacker’s photos looking out windows from her studio, car, planes, and trains. “Perhaps it’s that windows seem like portals to other worlds, there’s a mystery and enigma to them” says Tracy. “As an artist, I create my own world,” states Hacker, “yet, when I’m present and observe beyond myself, details, especially in the environment, provide my world with rich information via color, texture, movement, and sound.”

The photography includes installation art with vintage windows. Carrie Markel’s paintings and monotypes of window views complete this trio. Markel’s work is driven by the landscape. She shows two views of the world, elements with human qualities in nature from in or out of the architecture of the window.

Cherie Hacker hails from Chicago and holds an MFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art and a Studio Art Bachelors from UC Davis. She is quintessentially a mixed-media artist, a painter and photographer with an environmental focus.

Artist Carrie Markel embraces seasonal environmental themes through her work in monotype, watercolor and mixed media. A graduate of Sacramento State University, Markel is an established Sacramento artist who has received grants from the Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission and the California Arts Council and has curated shows at the State Capitol Museum.

New England native Ann Tracy calls herself an artistic digital alchemist who references Dada philosophy and the mutability of imagery. She has exhibited from Japan to Maui to New York City and in 2003 her work, “Stop” was included in the “Violence Against Women” exhibition, Group 78 Amnesty International, in Tokyo, Japan. Tracy has also worked as an art expert for KVIE CH 6 (PBS Sacramento) for the 2010 Art Auction and was featured in Sacramento Magazine in November 2010 (http://www.sacmag.com/media/Sacramento-Magazine/November-2010/City-Sketch-Ann-Tracy/).

E Street Gallery and Studios includes ten artists within the warehouse complex. E Street Gallery is located at 1115 E Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. Additional open hours are Sunday October 9 and Saturday the 22nd from noon to 4pm each day or by appointment. A Closing Party will be held Saturday, November 5 from 4-6:30p.m. For appointments or more information please call (916) 704-2909 or email through the contact page at www.hackerartpub.com

Disclosure: Not only am I an artist working in the digital and video realm, I'm a writer too.

Special Photo Opportunity & Lighting Seminar at Railroad Museum!

2011-08-12T18:01:07Z

Lights, Camera, Action! The California State Railroad Museum is proud to host a unique “Trains & Tripods Photo Opportunity & Lighting Seminar" on Friday evening, September 16 and Saturday morning, September 17.

The two-part program includes an optional seminar on existing light photography and a photographers-only photo session inside the visually-enticing museum before it opens to the public for the day. Amateur photographers of all skill levels can choose to attend one or both of the activities. Conducted by former Sacramento Bee photographer and Canon USA consultant Dave Henry, the fast-paced and information-packed lighting seminar is scheduled for Friday evening with the “bring your own tripod” photography opportunity scheduled for Saturday morning.

Space is limited to 50 participants and advance registration for “Trains & Tripods” is required. All photographers are required to sign a release of liability and a “not for commercial use” clause. For more information or to register, interested photographers are encouraged to visit www.csrmf.org/events-exhibits/whats-new or call 916-445-7373.

Disclosure: Traci Rockefeller Cusack represents a number of businesses and organizations throughout the Sacramento area including the California State Railroad Museum.

Powerhouse Science Center breaks ground

2011-08-11T22:37:11Z

The Powerhouse Science Center project officially broke ground this morning, commemorating its push forward with the unfurling of a large 30 x 10 foot banner, which adorned the front of the former PG&E power station building. In attendance were some 60 citizens, dignitaries, funding partners, Powerhouse Science Center staff and City staff. Speakers at the event included Mayor Kevin Johnson, Congressmember Doris Matsui, Senator Darrell Steinberg's District Director, Susan McKee, and Michele Wong, the Interim Executive Director for the project.

A $7 million check was presented to the project, generated by Proposition 84's "Nature Education Facilities" grant. The funds will be used to partially spur construction, which is anticipated to start this fall. With an expected completion date of 2013, the project will include a number of amenities, including a large domed planetarium, science exhibits, gift shops and cafe, and an open park area.

More information can be found at the Powerhouse Science Center website.

Disclosure: Carlos Eliason is a photographer/videographer and designer working in the Sacramento area. He is also a creative media intern for the City of Sacramento.

Railroad Museum to Debut Exhibition of Award-Winning Photography

2011-08-09T21:42:49Z

As part of a special exhibition debuting on August 26, the California State Railroad Museum is proud to showcase award-winning photographs from the prestigious Center for Railroad Photography & Art’s 2011 Creative Photography Awards Program.

With submissions received from all over the world, the theme of this year’s competition was “A Story in Three Photographs,” which challenged photographers to tell a story through three images that depicted an event or a day unfolding, illustrated a span of time, or was a creative interpretation of a single subject.

The top prize in the Center’s 2011 Creative Photography Awards Program went to Miško Kranjec of Ljubljana, Slovenia. Second place went to Stephen Hussar of Reading, Massachusetts, and third place went to Patrick J. Cashin of Brooklyn, New York. Judged by Joseph Elliott, Professor of Art (Photography) and Head of the Department at Muhlenberg College in Allentown, Pennsylvania, felt the top three sets of entries were all outstanding in different ways and said “If it was up to me, I would say they should share first place in a three-way tie.”

This special photography exhibit will remain on display at the California State Railroad Museum through June 2012, joining the Museum’s regular lineup of permanent and changing exhibitions, along with special events. In addition to being showcased in the special exhibit at the Railroad Museum, the award-winning photographs will be featured in an upcoming issue of Railfan & Railroad magazine and the Center’s journal, Railroad Heritage.

More information about the competition and the Center for Railroad Photography & Art can be found at www.railphoto-art.org, and more information about the California State Railroad Museum is available at www.csrmf.org or by calling (916) 445-6645.

About the California State Railroad Museum
Operated by California State Parks with financial assistance from the non-profit California State Railroad Museum Foundation, the California State Railroad Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Widely regarded as North America’s finest and most popular railroad museum, the complex of facilities includes the 100,000-square foot Railroad History Museum plus the reconstructed Central Pacific Railroad Passenger Station and Freight Depot, 1849 Eagle Theatre, and Big Four and Dingley Spice Mill commercial buildings in Old Sacramento. For 24-hour information, visit www.californiastaterailroadmuseum.org or call (916) 445-6645.

Disclosure: Traci Rockefeller Cusack represents a number of businesses and organizations throughout the greater Sacramento region including the Capital District State Museums and Historic Parks.

Big things underway at Sacramento Railyards

2011-08-03T19:31:40Z

The Railyards is currently abuzz with activity. I recently had the chance take a short tour of the construction as part of my work with the City and it is a sight to behold. Seeing the massive excavation of dirt is am impressive far cry from what the site looked like only two months earlier, when construction started in May. The progress of the 245 plot of land is a welcome sight.

The earth directly in front of the main shop buildings, north of the Sacramento Amtrak Station, takes a large dip, perhaps twenty feet deep now. Before, this area was a flat expanse of dusty land, reaching to the rail station. Excavators pepper the site, clambering around their newly built depths of soil. Steam leaves the ground where crews have placed lye to evaporate moisture, making the soil more stable. Workers shovel clods of earth in their respective holes. The energy on-site is well into a positive nature.

More information about the Railyards project can be found at the City of Sacramento's Intermodal Transportation Facility webpage.

Disclosure: Carlos Eliason is a photographer, videographer, and designer working in Sacramento, CA. More photographs can be seen at www.flickr.com/photos/carloseliason

Miniskirt-themed fashion show will highlight photography of Alister Oliver

2011-07-20T04:12:10Z

Gallery 2110 will host a fashion show paying tribute to Designer Mary Quant at 7 p.m. July 23, on the first floor of the art complex on 2110 K St. The show is organized by photographer Alister Oliver, a tenant of the art complex for the last two and half years.

Quant popularized miniskirts during the Mod era that took England’s youth by storm in the late 1950s and early 1960s. For that subculture, the miniskirt became a symbol of rebellion.

“Coming up in the 50s, (Mary Quant) thought clothing (of the era) was a little bit stodgy,” Oliver said. “It was not about how a woman wanted to dress.”

Inspired by the music and fashion of Mod subculture, Oliver has chosen the miniskirt as a theme for his show.

The fashion show is free and open to the public. Denim Spot, 1050 20th St. will be providing miniskirts and other articles of clothing for the three models featured in the fashion show.

In order to make the fashion show more interactive, Oliver said he will also be staging a photoshoot for the public to view.

The fashion show is also meant to bring attention to Oliver’s photography exhibit, “Short Enough to Keep Things Interesting.” It is a series of artistic photographs in which iconic men such as Albert Einstein, Charlie Chaplin, René Magritte and Salvador Dalí, are represented or impersonated by women.

The exhibit will serve as the backdrop of the fashion show.

“He takes great strides to be an individual in a medium that is considered commonplace. Photography is a medium that most people feel that can do and can do well. He takes great strides to make very unique pieces,” said Clare Bailey, owner of Gallery 2110.

Oliver, 37, said he picked up on the theme of dressing women as men two years ago during a photoshoot in a factory where other photographers were taking pictures of the interior of the building for historical value. Oliver said that unlike the others there, he was photographing a woman dressed as Charlie Chaplin. He noted that his activity caused a stir on the spot. One of the photographers there was disgusted.

“I thought, ‘There’s something here.’ I think any kind of art, good or bad, that gets people talking is good. It’s about showing people what you think is art and, they may agree or disagree,” Oliver said.

He has done everything from event photography, product photography, wedding photography, cityscapes and portraiture to art photography.

In recent years, he has done a lot of automotive photography, which isn’t pushing any boundaries at all, Oliver said. Bailey said she believes the fashion show will help showcase the versatility of Oliver’s work.

Born in England, Oliver’s family relocated to northern to New Jersey when he was 12. He has spent the last eight years in California.

Oliver said he has been snapping pictures since he was 4. His father came home from a business trip in Canada and lost his camera, so he purchased the Kodak point-and-shoot camera. Oliver was eventually given the Kodak and, he said he took pictures of worms and dirt.

“I would get in trouble because I went through film like Skittles,” he said.

Oliver said he wants to wake people up with his art photography.

“Everything that Alister does has a different take,” Bailey said. He’s always got that twist – something that is uniquely Alister.”

A former power station, sitting empty and waiting

2011-07-19T18:49:43Z

If you’ve ever you’ve wondered what that old abandoned building off the west side of I-5, just north of downtown Sacramento is, wonder no more. If you aren’t familiar with it, the City now owns the former PG&E Powerhouse, built in 1912 and vacated sometime in the early 60’s.

Currently it sits empty, an eyesore for most that travel along Jibboom Street between the I Street Bridge, and Richards Boulevard. Most recently, it was nominated to be a part of the National Register of Historic Places.

I recently had a somewhat exclusive chance to photograph the inside of the building for the Economic Development Department. The building is being converted into a science, space and technology museum that is set to attract tourists to the area. The $50 million project should be completed by 2013.

Inside, the building is desolate, save for a few scraps of leftover metal, some supporting structures for large apparatuses, and plenty of pigeons. I was amazed at how graceful the aging structure felt. A calm quiet surrounded me. I observed a strange and distinct change from the hum and drum of nearby I-5.

Although these photographs appear as brightly lit renditions of the scene inside, the actual experience was much different. There was enough light to navigate around, but as for the small details seen in these photographs, few could be found by my eyes in real life.

PG&E Powerhouse from carlos eliason on Vimeo.

More information is available at the Powerhouse Science Center website.

Disclosure: Carlos Eliason is a photographer, videographer, and designer working in Sacramento, CA. More photographs can be seen at www.flickr.com/photos/carloseliason

Viewpoint Photographic Art Center fundraiser auction and exhibit

2011-04-28T17:20:15Z

Walk down busy J Street, pull open a heavy door of an appealing brick building and enter a showcase of photographic art – digital media, black and white, and historic processes, each image matted in the traditional austere fashion and hanging side by side on spot-lighted walls.

Viewpoint Photographic Art Center, a nonprofit, volunteer-based organization, provides a community for photographers and photography events, exhibits and education for the community. The center is holding its annual fine print auction and fundraiser until May 7.

“We currently have 160-plus items that have been donated by photographers from around the world,” said Michael Corlew, chairman for the auction committee.

Displayed works include photographs created by internationally known photographers such as Ruth Bernhard, Michael Kenna and Jock Sturges, as well as local photographers Lewis Kemper and Jennifer Wu. Kemper and Wu are members of Canon’s Explorer of Light Photography program.

“Viewpoint is a photography-only gallery,” Corlew said. “We provide an opportunity for photographers to meet with other photographers to discuss photography in all aspects. We have people who are avid digital photographers. We have people who are just as avid in the alternate processes.”

“Alternate process is another way of saying historical process,” said Judy Yemma, Viewpoint instructor and membership coordinator. “As silver gelatin (black and white) came into use, these processes fell by the wayside, similar to what is happening as people move more to digital imagery.”

Yemma offers workshops for those interested in alternate processes. Other members offer classes in digital photography and software and workshops at scenic and visually stimulating locations. Workshop attendees do not have to be members, but members do get a nice discount on the class enrollment fee. Membership fees help with Viewpoint’s operating expenses.

Viewpoint offers the community a unique experience in being able to view a new photography exhibit every month. Reception openings are held on Sacramento’s Second Saturday evenings.

“We do everything we can to put on a high-quality exhibit every month,” Corlew said. “We put up 22 different shows every year. It is just a great community of photographers who get together to embrace photography.”

Support the Viewpoint Photographic Art Center and attend the live auction on May 7. Enjoy fantastic photographic works, food, drink and a good time.

View the online auction catalog or visit the Viewpoint gallery at 2015 J St., Suite 101, to see the auction photographs. Prints may be bid on through May 6 in the silent online auction.

Disclaimer: Laura Mah is a member of the Viewpoint Photographic Art Center.

Natural Lighting

2011-03-15T23:25:57Z

If you happened to miss out on Second Saturday Art Walk this past weekend, you are still in luck. Lumens Light + Living and The Center of Contemporary Arts are proud to present: “Art of Light: Nature’s Spirit,” a photography exhibition by Sandy Follett.

The exhibit continues through April 24 and is located in the showroom of Lumen Lights + Living (2028 K St.). The showroom hours are Monday- Friday 10 a.m. - 6pm and Saturdays 10 a.m. - 5p.m., and admission is free.

I was lucky enough to attend a private viewing of Sandy Follett’s work, which showcases her collected images of nature’s beauty in the Yosemite Valley, the High Sierra, Roseville and Rescue, Calif. What makes this Cameron Park-based photographer’s work different than other nature photographers is that her images obviously express the raw emotion and spiritual connection she has with capturing nature during the different times of day and focuses on finding the perfect lighting to illuminate each subject.

Follet, who started learning her photography skills through film photography, now solely shoots digital. All of her photos in this series are printed with archival pigment ink. Follett explained to me that the best times for her to venture out into her natural sanctuary to capture images are early in the morning to watch the sunrise or right when the sun is setting.

“It changes the mood of everything.” She said. Follett also explained that some of the best times to capture a nature shot are right after a storm. This is evident in her piece called “Oak Spirit Fantasy.”

You can see the mean skies after a storm took place and the aftermath of its surroundings. The reflection of the sky, earth and lightning in the water adds a dramatic affect as if there are two different worlds you are seeing.

Follett started devoting more time to her photography in the last four years and has been taking baby steps from group showings to solo showings to having award-winning work. In fact, if you view her website at www.sandyfollettphotos.com, you can see for yourself she has won some prestigious awards such as receiving an “Award of Merit” at the California State Fair, where she had a piece displayed in the fine arts exhibits.

Many people are taking notice of Follett’s work, such Stacey Wong with The Center for Contemporary Arts (www.ccasac.org), which is a nonprofit organization that thrives on finding contemporary mid-career to professional artists and encourages participation in the arts.

“We like to find artists and set up exhibits with an educational component and include artist lectures,” Wong said.

She also makes it known that CCA not only supports and encourages local artists, but organization leaders want to consider additional professional services for these artists and nurture the artists into the direction they would like to go. It is no secret that Sacramento’s art scene, in every medium possible, is thriving.

Lumens Light + Living owners Ken Plumlee and Peter Weight, who are local art supporters and enthusiasts themselves, sought out CCA associates Stacey Wong and Mariana Moscoso when it came to finding help with curating exhibits for Lumens showroom throughout the 2011 year. The owners of Lumens + Light and Living want to support works of art relevant to what they are passionate about themselves: lighting.

When Wong caught on to Ken and Peter’s vision, she gladly took charge. It wasn’t long before she found Follett’s work on the website of Viewpoint Gallery in Sacramento, which Follett is a member of.

Wong said she felt Follett’s work fit perfectly with what the “Art of Light” series and agrees that Follett’s work was the obvious choice for this series because not only does photography showcase images through how fast light being exposed to each frame can differentiate each image, but it also expresses the spiritual soul Follett is communicating in each one of her pieces.

Follett, who has been taking photography classes in the Los Rios Community College District for the last four years, also plays with her media.

One of my favorite pieces, called “Oak Spirit,” which is a subtle black-and-white piece that seems to have two different “paint by lightning” features to it, is actually compliments to Photoshop. As Follett is growing as an artist, she is exploring her creativity and mixing media. If you haven’t made your way Lumens Light + Living to experience the world that is Sandy Follett’s, then what on earth are you waiting for?

Editorial note: References to the Center for Contemporary Arts and CCA are in reference to Center for Contemporary Arts, Sacramento specifically.

Escape the Fate tops Dead Masquerade bill at Ace of Spades

2011-03-08T02:03:07Z

"Escape the Fate! Escape the Fate!"

With appetites violently whetted by the three-guitar screamo attack of the final opening band Alesana, the loud chanting of hundreds of eager fans filled Ace of Spades Sunday night, beckoning Escape the Fate, the headliners of the Dead Masquerade tour.

The sensory onslaught began with appropriately named opener "Massacre," as the Vegas post-hardcore band pounced on the young crowd like a rabid pack of hyenas on defenseless baby gazelles.

The response to ETF's latest Facebook wall posting before the show ("Sacramento Ace of Spades tonight it's on! You guys ready?" – 1,429 Likes and 539 comments at the time of this writing) indicated a large and dedicated fan base, and it was reflected in the enthusiastic packed house.

The young audience was kept rapt throughout the show, obeying readily when vocalist Craig Mabbitt split the crowd like the Red Sea and instructed the opposite sides to run toward each other at the beginning of the next song and collide in what's known in as a "Wall of Death."

When they weren't running into each other, those in the crowd were enthusiastically shouting out lyrics and crowd-surfing, clearly enjoying the ride.

Escape the Fate members are good at what they do – putting on an energetic show with music that combines melody and pop sensibilities with their hardcore/metal foundation, with a little screamo mixed in to round things out. (They worked on their latest LP with Linkin Park producer Don Gilmore, to give you an idea).

The setlist drew almost exclusively on ETF's last two albums, 2008's "This War Is Ours" ("Something," "The Flood" and "10 Miles Wide) and 2010's eponymous release ("Issues," "Zombie Dance," "Gorgeous Nightmare" and "Day of Wreckoning"), with "Situations" being the lone song played from 2006's debut album "Dying Is Your Latest Fashion."

Guitarist TJ Bell from supporting act Motionless In White did double duty on the bass for ETF, filling in for regular bassist Max Green, who is at home recovering (he entered rehab for drug and alcohol addiction late last year), Mabbitt said.

Mabbitt made it a point to connect to the audience not only on a visceral level as a hyperactive frontman, but on a personal one as well, at one point encouraging those in the crowd to ignore the naysayers and follow their dreams – "How many people in here are artists? You write, you sing, you draw? You work at Subway, you're a sandwich artist?" – before leading everyone in a middle finger salute directed at those who might have issues with artistic expression, in the food industry or otherwise.

And later: "We want to dedicate this next one to the brave men and women who serve this country," declared Mabbitt, before launching into the first song of the encore, "This War Is Ours (The Guillotine II)." "And also to the greatest video game in the world in my opinion, and that's Halo!"

Escape the Fate top Dead Masquerade bill at Ace

2011-03-03T06:19:08Z

DGC/Interscope band Escape the Fate will headline the Dead Masquerade tour at Ace of Spades this weekend, joined by support acts Alesana, Motionless In White, Get Scared and Drive A.

Las Vegas-based hard-rockers Escape the Fate are touring in support of their self-titled third album and recently released “Issues Remix” EP, featuring remixes of their first single "Issues" done by Jakwob (Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Lily Allen), LA Riots (Tiesto, The Ting Tings), Wolves At The Gate (The Cure) and Does It Offend You, Yeah? (Muse, The Raconteurs, Bloc Party).

The band currently graces the cover of Outburn magazine, which declares, “the band’s new album is a compelling modern day masterpiece.”

Bassist Max Green will be returning to the band after entering rehab for drug and alcohol addiction last November.

See all the bands on the Dead Masquerade tour perform this Sunday at Ace of Spades. General admission tickets are $21.95, all fees included. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show starts at 7 p.m. The show is all ages.

Sick of the Radio? dot com

2011-02-18T03:49:25Z

Sick of the Radio (SOTR) is a Sacramento-based website that covers indie art and music from Sacramento and around the world. The website has artist interviews, photography, art, music videos and even free MP3s.

Started last February by 28-year-old Andy Johnson and his wife, Melissa, SOTR aims to share a love of the arts and offer daily inspiration for artists, musicians and art lovers.

“We strive to expose all types of art to the masses,” Johnson said. “I am an artist and musician, and love the idea of an online collective of various artists.”

Johnson has had the idea for the site for a few years. The birth of his son motivated him to make it a reality.

“I’ve had the idea for the website for a while, then my wife got pregnant,” Johnson said “So I thought, ‘I got to launch this.’ ”

He built the website himself using the Wordpress content management system and customizing it to his needs. He said he doesn’t feel he is very tech-savvy and is looking for tech help to maintain and update the site.

“One time, none of the contributors could log in, the web tech guy wanted to charge $200 to fix it,” Johnson said “Once I figured it out, I fixed it in two seconds.”

Johnson attended Sacramento State for a couple of years. He hopped between majors, then decided to go with his inclination toward art before leaving without a degree.

“Going into college, I was already an artist and musician,” he said.

“My parents sent me to college, and I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do. I just started taking a bunch of art classes and then just kind of dropped out,” Johnson said. “My problem was I just didn’t know what to do.”

Johnson said he wants to expand on the idea behind SOTR by organizing art shows and concerts in Sacramento.

There are about 20 writers that contribute articles to the site. Contributors come from all over the world, including Canada, China and England.

Contributors volunteer their time. Johnson said he wants to be able to pay them in the future, probably through placing relevant ads on the site.

“When it comes to art and music, when you find people that are passionate, it’s easier to find people to do it for free,” Johnson said “The writers are trying to find experience for a paying job, eventually.”

Sarah MacDonald heard about SOTR through a friend. She started writing for the arts section last September from Waterloo, Canada. She has written articles for the art, photography, fashion and music sections. You can read samples of her articles here and here.

“I feel very passionately about reporting on arts and cultural stories under the radar of the mainstream culture,” MacDonald said. “Not everyone wants to know about Top-40 music, but would rather be informed about other musicians worldwide with different sounds.”

Richard Greenan started writing for SOTR a year ago. Originally from Brighton, England, he found the site while studying in Cardiff, Wales. He contributes about three articles a week on new and retro music. You can read samples of his articles here and here.

He said he’s seen SOTR really grow over the last year, and it has been mentioned by other indie music websites such as Pitchfork and Gorilla vs. Bear.

“I believe it has real potential to offer alternative coverage of the indie music scene,” Greenan said.

Johnson has produced three albums by himself under the name Tony Bonanza. His song “Singapore Sling” on Baby B. EP was featured on Fader magazine’s website.

“You could say I’m a multi-instrumentalist,” Johnson said. “My main goal right now is just to be able to survive doing something I love.”

SOTR gets about 1,000 unique visitors a day and double that in page views.

“It’s good to know that people are sifting through the site,” Johnson said.

SOTR on Twitter, MySpace, Facebook.

Easyriders Bike Show Tour

2011-01-16T20:35:34Z

This is not a news story. It is not even opinion so much as it is a few words to accompany the photos attached to them. If the old saying has any truth, each shot is worth 1,000 words.

The Easyriders Bike Show Tour traditionally makes its annual Sacramento pilgrimage this time of year and unlike last year, the weather did not present any hindrance to the literally thousands of motorcyclists who parked their bikes on J Street and on every other street around the Sacramento Convention Center. Although the show caters to all motorcycle enthusiasts, the vast majority of those in attendance hold allegiance to one brand in particular – Harley Davidson.

As one might expect, the majority of the megabuck customs displayed inside the convention center reflect that allegiance. Those who know the culture, know; and those who do not, do not, but regardless of one’s level of acquaintance with this lifestyle, it is perfectly clear to anyone who happened to be downtown on January 15th and 16th that there is a huge commitment of both time and money to our “hobby.”

Although I am admittedly a Harley aficionado, it does not mean my entire life revolves around them. But at the same time, other aspects of my life neatly dovetail into what can be viewed as a serendipitous opportunity to express my art in terms of my passion. I do not create the custom painted and chrome plated works that were on display yesterday and today, but I can and do create the words and pictures that document them. Yesterday was one big Kodak moment and a few of the results of that moment can be viewed here.

Art has no bounds…

Migrant Children capture their lives through their own eyes

2010-12-24T01:43:05Z

A sunny day on the grassy playground, family gatherings around the table, an empty house, Our Lady of Guadalupe – these are just some of the vivid imagery captured by children of migrant agricultural workers temporarily living in Yolo County. Each of these photographs tells the untold story of migrant children – their fears, hopes and dreams as they migrate with their families from season to season, farm to farm.

A Través de Mis Ojos (Through My Eyes), sponsored in part by The Latino Legislative, Caucus Foundation and Spanglish Arte, is a collection of 48 intimate photographs featured from Dec. 10 through Friday at the Center for Contemporary Arts in Sacramento (CCAS). Viewers of the exhibit had the rare opportunity to experience a personal glimpse into the world of migrant children.

Most of the children in the exhibit learned about the art of photography in a class at Yolo Family Resource Center (YFRC) in Woodland.

Through the six-week program, facilitated by Neil Hollander and Natalia Deeb-Sosa, the children, most of whom never used a camera before, learned the mechanics of developing film and using 35mm cameras, which were donated by community members. Through these skills, the children were able to document aspects of their daily lives from their own perspectives. Their photographs also helped educate the community on the unique lives of farm workers

On Dec. 11, the art center held a Second Saturday reception, where they raised approximately $600 through donations, as well as through selling photographs and T-shirts. Proceeds will go toward the migrant children and their families, building YFRC services and setting up a darkroom so the children may continue producing quality photographs, such as the ones featured in "A Tráves de Mis Ojos."

According to Xico González, curator of the CCAS exhibit, “The class was such a huge success that the YFRC made a space for a small darkroom in their building.”

González first brought the idea of curating this exhibit “as a fundraiser and as an educational tool to provide the general public with an insight into the lives of farm workers.”

After past outreach experience in the Yolo County area, he decided to focus the project on the migrant community of Yolo County, specifically through the Davis Migrant Center, Dixon Migrant Center and YFRC.

“The responses have been very positive from the community towards this project, and exhibit,” González said. “People are very impressed by the children's photographs in terms of subject matter and aesthetics.”

One of the highlights of the exhibit includes an invitation to take "A Tráves de Mis Ojos" to San José State University in May 2011.

Attention all Local Sacramento Artists. We Need Your Support!

2010-12-17T07:38:11Z

My name is Aaron Myers, I am the Sacramento area director of an arts organization called RAW:natural born artists.

RAW showcases emerging/underground artists in film, fashion, music, art performing art, hair, makeup, photography and performing art. We do this on a local level through monthly multi-faceted arts showcases that showcase all of these forms of art together in one event.

I'm writing to introduce myself and RAW to you!

RAW is based in Southern California, but we currently operate in 6 cities across California and are launching in Sacramento for the first time in February! We are launching nationwide to an additional 21 cities as well.

We'll be hosting our monthly showcases at The Momo Lounge in Midtown. I'm looking for good samaritans with grassroots ways of helping us get acquainted with the city.

I wanted to send you a few things to get you acquainted with RAW as well. Below are two links to both a mini documentary (5min) and our website.

It would be great to find out more about getting the word out to Sacramento's creative community.

Thanks so much in advance.

VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/RAWartistsTV#p/u/67/vua0g7X9HtY
WEBSITE: www.RAWartists.org

Trio unveils California Northern

2010-12-09T01:10:02Z

A bold new magazine has launched in Sacramento.

California Northern has been kickstarted here by two brothers and a friend. Former reporter Casey Mills, English professor Richard Mills and graphic designer Paul Barrett plan to fill the twice-yearly, glossy-print magazine with in-depth literary journalism, literature, poetry, essays and photography focused on the culture, history and environments that create the region's unique identity.

The trio hopes to produce a magazine that hasn't been done here before.

"We're trying to be sort of a New Yorker or a Harper's for the West Coast," said Casey Mills, publisher and editor in chief. "I think a lot of the high-level, long-form journalism and cultural criticism comes out of New York and Washington, D.C.

"It's such a shame because California has such a rich culture and complex environment that isn't explored very often in a deep and thoughtful way," he said.

They're hosting a public release party for the magazine's second issue Thursday night at the Avid Reader, 1600 Broadway. Issue 2 went on newsstands in early December.

The magazine is based in Sacramento, where Mills works part-time for an environmental consulting firm. Once a reporter for the Contra Costa Times and BeyondChron.org, a political news website, he spent a few years away from journalism but missed the field too much. That's when he, his brother and Barrett saw something missing among California's current crop of magazines.

The magazine's executive editors are his brother, who teaches at two South Bay community colleges, and Barrett, a former book designer getting his master's in Creative Writing at St. Mary's College of California in Moraga ~~San Francisco State University~~. With two of the founders based in the Bay Area, the magazine launched its first issue last June with a San Francisco release party.

All three write for the magazine and share editing duties. Barrett, who's also the art director, handles design. Working in his Land Park home office, Casey Mills oversees everything else not related to editorial, including ad sales, business licensing, subscriptions and mail.

He met Barrett, an Orange County native ~~a Seattle native~~, in Seattle while working for a planning commission. The Mills brothers grew up outside Redding.

They've brought aboard Jesse Nathan as poetry editor and Karlene Barrett (no relation to Paul Barrett) as "Notes from the Field" editor, plus two copy editors.

Everyone volunteers their time. While there's not yet much money to pay contributors, Mills said he expects to soon start applying for grant funding after recently becoming fiscally sponsored by Heyday Books. Their goal is to find grants for specific projects while using ad and subscription revenue to operate, like San Francisco-based investigative magazine Mother Jones.

The founders hope to make the magazine a quarterly eventually. The debut issue's first 500 magazines quickly sold out, and another 1,300 printed soon after is nearly gone. About 2,000 copies have been printed for Issue 2. The magazine is available at Barnes & Noble, Borders, independent bookstores like the Avid Reader, and through subscriptions.

Each issue will carry copy and photos from several regions of Northern California. The magazine's coverage area spans from the coast to Nevada, as far south as Fresno and Monterey and ranging to the Oregon border.

"We hesitate to draw distinct lines because it's such an amorphous region," Mills said.

The magazine has a website to give readers a sample of what they can find in the magazine. However, the real product is print.

Mills and his partners believe the online market is good for quick information delivered directly to readers. But computers and electronic reading devices aren't good mediums for in-depth stories and packages that marry words with art in a "cohesive format," he said.

"Computers -- they're not lovers. They're fighters," Mills said.

People who spend a lot of time with an article want to have something that's visually beautiful and physically enjoyable to hold, he added.

"The print edition just offers you something online can't," he said. "I really feel there's room for both in this world."

Photo 2, left to right: Founders Paul Barrett, Richard Mills and Casey Mills. Photos by Kate Sawyer.

Suzanne Hurt is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press. Follow her on Twitter @SuzanneHurt.

Everything is Awesome: Photographs by Keith Telfeyan

2010-12-07T02:04:02Z

Everything is Awesome, a solo exhibition of photographs by Keith Telfeyan, opens at Cuffs, 2523 J Street, Midtown Sacramento, on December 11, 2010 and will remain on view through January 7, 2011. Cuffs is open Mon-Sat 11am-7pm and Sun Noon-7pm.

The public is invited to a reception with the artist on December 11, from 6pm-10pm, as part of Sacramento’s 2nd Saturday Art Walk. Enjoy holiday snacks and drinks and Christmas tunes dj-ed by Shaun Slaughter while taking in the show. Cuffs is also sponsoring a toy drive to provide holiday gifts for children in need. Anyone who donates a toy will be entered in a drawing for a $50 certificate to the shop.

For his first solo show at Cuffs, Keith has created a series of digital C-prints from 35mm film entitled Everything is Awesome. Focusing on seemingly mundane, everyday sights, he executes the photographs in a way that causes the viewer to take a second glance—realizing the series title is, in fact, true.

With photography, Keith is able to capture scenes exactly how he perceives them, delivering his fresh take of the world to people who may otherwise be unswayed by a lamp post or a flock of birds. His work offers vision fields that give a lush and clean vicarious experience, bringing out transcendence through texture while alluding to the banal, ordinary moments of life being lived.

In Keith’s words: “Everything is everything. Sorrow and trees and architecture and love and chemistry and politics and the world. It’s awesome…to see a wave of oneness within each particular thing. Or perhaps the everyday itself is simply worth seeing in a new way.” Keith’s philosophy is tied in intrinsically to the photographs in this show. Attendees will leave with a novel view of the everyday and the knowledge that, yes, everything is awesome.

About the artist
Keith Telfeyan makes video art, short films, and photographs. He received his MFA from Parsons the New School for Design in 2009, and his Bachelor’s degree in Film from the University of California, Berkeley in 2003, where he also studied Philosophy and Rhetoric. His artwork has been exhibited throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia. He was born and raised in Sacramento, California and resides in Brooklyn, New York. He is left-handed and keeps an active dream journal.

For further information about Keith Telfeyan and to see more examples of his artwork visit his website.

______________________________________________________________

All images by Keith Telfeyan:
1. Electric Spirituality
2. Pixilated Abyss
3. Slow Motion Explosion

Disclaimer: Alison Kranz is Public Relations contact for Keith Telfeyan.

Scott Pruett Revs up California Auto Museum

2010-11-10T08:29:12Z

Scott Pruett, the 2010 Rolex Grand Am driving champion, was the ideal Keynote Speaker for this year’s Fundraising Dinner, “Life in the Fast Lane.”

After all, the local hero from Auburn has become one of the nation’s most successful race car drivers by going very fast for almost 25 years now. Scott’s humble and down-to-earth style definitely endeared him to an enthusiastic and appreciative audience on November 5th at the California Auto Museum. It is easy to see how this native Californian has been able to make such an incredible impact in the racing world.

Scott spoke from experience about the value of a team effort to succeed in racing whether in the Grand Am Series, Trans Am Championships or NASCAR. In fact, Scott shared, “this is the best year I can remember in racing. It was a Dream Season! It was one of my best racing seasons ever!”

The Auto Museum obviously understands teamwork as well. Executive Director, Karen Mc Claflin, Good Day Sacramento’s Nick Toma, the Museum staff, and Mr. Pruett teamed up to put on a successful event that thrilled the 170 racing and car enthusiasts in attendance. Most importantly, “Life in the Fast Lane” raised over $21,000 for the California Auto Museum.

Many racing fans are aware that Scott Pruett just claimed his third overall championship and set a record for the most wins in a single season. They may also know that Pruett was an Indy 500 co-rookie of the year and that he has won the 24 hours of Daytona seven times. However, not everyone may realize that the Pruett’s (Scott and Judy) are now enjoying success as vintners producing wines from their Pruett Vineyard. As the father of a four year old, I was very excited to find out that the Pruett’s have written and published four children’s books about racing. Even though Scott doesn’t seem to be ready to retire any time soon, it’s nice to know that the Pruett’s will have plenty to keep them busy long after their very successful racing career is finished.

John Mc Namee, a self proclaimed “Motorhead” and proud owner of a 1973 Pantera, remarked that he could listen to Scott Pruett share his racing stories all night long. I’m sure Mr. Mc Namee and many others who enjoyed this years “Life in the Fast Lane” are already looking forward to the California Auto Museum’s next event.

If you are a car enthusiast, the Auto Museum is a must see. There are over 150 vehicles in a variety of makes and models from the early 1900’s to future vehicles featuring alternative power. The Museum is open daily to educate and entertain locals and visitors alike. For more information on upcoming Auto Museum events and opportunities go to www.CalAutoMuseum.org

Rick Atchley | Rick@MaverickPhotography.us

Click here to view more event photos>>

Photo Tips for Busy Parents

2010-08-28T02:43:48Z

Photo Tips for Busy Parents was a class set up and conducted by Jenn Bartell, on September 25, at her studio on 2418 K Street. Eleven parents (all moms or expected moms except for 1) attended the workshop. This was a free workshop held by Jenn Bartell at a studio she shares with Catrina Maria Arcularius who specializes in Event Planning and Design and Suzanne “Weedon” O’Brien a floral designer-owner of Garden of Weedon. This is a good business location and the usage of space is greatly utilized by having three small businesses under one roof.

The class started off by going over the technical aspects of the camera. Most parents in the class had entry to intermediate level digital single-lens (DSLR) cameras making this a more challenging class for these parents but at the same time more rewarding once they learn how to use the functions of their cameras. Jenn tried to quickly cover aperture and shutter settings on the cameras. She recommended these two settings as a foundation for taking good pictures. She also covered ISO settings and looking at the parents it may have been a little bit more overwhelming than they anticipated.

She did pass on that she sets her camera on manual setting saying, “I like to use all the settings myself, this gives me more control. I try to stay away from flash as this tends to wash out skin tones and leaves harsh shadows.” This basically separates the “pros” from the rest of us.

The worried look on some parents seemed to disappear as she moved on to discuss an actual shoot. Jenn was very patient and reminded me of a second grade teacher reading a story to her kids. She was very attentive and thoroughly answered questions. Students patiently and eagerly took written and mental notes.

Jenn recommended looking for interesting places to photograph children. Take notice of these interesting places and more important observe natural light and the time of day. She also recommended candid shots. Have the child do something they enjoy such as playing with legos, drawing anything that grabs their attention and they enjoy doing. While the child is doing this the parent should move around them and photograph from different sides and angles. Once in a while ask them to show you their project this way you’ll capture moments when they’re not “posing” for the camera or saying “cheese” something that many of us do. Older children can be told how to pose and tend to follow directions better than younger children. Jenn indicated that one of the most important things you can do is to “stay patient and wait for the look you want.”

It’s almost unusual to hear of a photographer who went to school to learn the trade but Jenn has been interested in photography since she was a young child and this carried on to High School at Sacramento High. She chose to attend Sacramento High School because of their photography program. She mentioned her photography teacher from who she learned a lot Mr. Tafoya. Jenn noted that Mr. Tafoya moved to McClatchy High School where he still teaches. Jenn attended Brooks Institute of Photography graduating in 2005. She spent some time in New York and San Diego before deciding to come back to her home town. Back in Sacramento she decided to concentrate in portrait photography, children, and weddings. Her demeanor and patience, I believe, make her well suited to specialize in children’s photography.

Jenn’s studio will be hosting Sacramento Rocks! A Kids Photo Show on Saturday October 9 as part of the Second Saturday art walk. The studio will be open from 5-9 for this exhibit. This showing will be open for photographs taken by kids 12 or younger of their favorite person, place or thing in Sacramento. Photographs taken and submitted by Sacramento-area kids will be displayed along with the child’s name, age and title of their photo. Each child may submit one photo for the show and all photos will be printed and displayed. September 15 is the deadline for submission. Email submissions to jenn@jennbartell.com.

Jenn had many tips and tricks for parents to use when photographing their children, she also had 5 most important things that should be noted:
• Try to stay away from using flash
• Stay patient and wait for a shot you want
• Concentrate on the features of the face
• Keep eyes in sharp focus
• Clean up any distractions in your background

Children are very active and in order for them not to lose interest keep a shooting session somewhere between 30 to 45 minutes. Event with all the tips and tricks Jenn provided you have to know when to stop. Keep checking Jenn’s web page for future updates and if you’re in need of a photographer, a florist or even an event planner you can get all three by visiting The Studio at 2418 K Street.

Exhibit Reveals Sacramento's Arboreal Love Affair

2010-08-13T04:34:19Z

Sacramento has been called “The City of Trees,” a city with more trees per capita than Paris, a place known for its romantic, tree-lined walkways and thoroughfares.

Each tree in Sacramento has a story to tell. This is the theme of “Living With Trees,” a new art exhibit that opened in City Hall Aug. 4 featuring 17 historical photographs selected from the Center for Sacramento History’s archives, each telling a small piece of the decades-old romance Sacramento has had with its trees.

There are images of automobiles smashed by broad tree trunks flung down in the windstorm of 1950, costumed children playacting in a shaded grove and an ordinary Sacramento man sweeping a front yard enveloped by countless leaves.

But, it’s about more than just the trees, said Coloma artist Cheri Ibes. “It’s about our relationship with nature.”

Ibes’ installation is in the center of the exhibit – a tangled arrangement of pruned brambles from a manzanita shrub enclosed in a glass case.

“The spectrum of the human relationship with nature runs between fear of an unbridled, uncontrollable force of nature – things like hurricanes and earthquakes – to wanting to control and own nature ourselves in the form of something like a potted bonsai plant in your backyard,” Ibes said.

Her installation, she said, embodies that spectrum of human interaction with nature, as do all the photographs in the exhibit.

Since 1849, the people of Sacramento have cherished the benefits of having lots of trees around. But with the city’s budget cuts reducing the workforce of Urban Forestry services from the equivalent of 57 full-time employees to about 36, there is concern about what the future holds for Sacramento’s urban canopy.

Despite having fewer employees, a recent upgrade to a Google Earth-style tree mapping system that tracks data for about 100,000 public trees in Sacramento has made preservation efforts easier for the city, Sacramento Urban Forestry Manager Joe Benassini said.

“There’s a real protective tendency people have toward trees, ” said Lisa Prince, curator of this exhibit and curator for the Center for Sacramento History, which is presenting the exhibit in conjunction with The Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission.

Trees give us shade from the scorching summer sun, clean air to breathe, and promote mental and emotional well-being, Prince said.

Prince said she wants people to walk away from the exhibit having found some way to connect with the history of Sacramento and develop an appreciation for the urban forest.

Some have. The exhibit includes a cork board where visitors can tack up an index card with their tree stories. The cards are full of stories: about weddings, sad memories of trees now gone, happy childhood memories of climbing trees and building tree houses.

The exhibit can be viewed at 915 I Street in the Robert T. Matsui Gallery on the first floor of the new City Hall building until Jan. 15. The viewing hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Photos 1 and 2 courtesy of the Center for Sacramento History. Photos 3 and 4 by Colin Wood.

Photo 4 is of Joe Benassini, Sacramento Urban Forestry Manager.

Art & Social Media was the Topic at the last SMCSac panel event

2010-07-28T03:14:53Z

The Sacramento Social Media Club (SMCSac) held another successful panel and networking event last week, this time focusing on “The Art of Social Media." Four area artists--all working in different media--and an artist’s representative discussed their uses of social media platforms to further their art and their careers. Participating were Jen Stewart of Jen Stewart Photography; Eben Burgoon, co-creator of Eben07 webcomic; Marianne Bland, visual artist and manager of SactoMetro Etsy Street Team; Veronica Delgado, owner of Vera Icon PR; and Jeff Musser, visual artist and blogger.

The evening began and ended with active networking sessions, fostered by a selection of artisan pizza (from Hot Italian Pizza & Panini Bar), and various hard ciders (from Two Rivers Cider). In between the socializing and eating was a panel discussion so jam-packed with information that those LiveTweeting the event couldn’t keep up. For an excellent overview, go to Michelle Ponto’s writeup on News10.net. This Sacramento Press article will try to give you some idea of the depth of the conversation, as well as providing links to some of the sites the panelists discussed.

Julie Berge, Program Director of SMCSac, met with the panelists the week before the event for the express purpose of getting to the heart of their potential offerings. Her questions bear out the success of her mission. She began the discussion by saying, “At last week’s meeting, someone stated, ‘the more you know an artist, the more you love their art’, and that started the theme of the evening: ways in which connecting with the public and with collectors enhance both the creative and the merchandising experience.

Jen Stewart discussed how her social media presence on her blog, Facebook, and Twitter, in which she shares personal information, has created opportunities for her photography. “You create a relationship with the people who read you and that can lead to business. Maybe the bride has never heard of you, but her grandma has.” The result, says Stewart, is the connection becomes personal and the recommendation carries more weight.

Eben Burgoon talked about how he uses Twitter to bring his comic characters to life. They each have their own Twitter handles and that works to creates their own personalities. In addition, Burgoon urges all artists contemplating a web presence to buy their url even before they’re ready to go on-line. “Branding is crucial” in Web 2.0, he said, and you’d hate to find your brand name was already taken by someone else.

Marianne Bland, as the manager of Sacramento’s Etsy community, was able to extend the conversation to the use of social media to network with your art community. Etsy is not only an international online marketplace for buying and selling handmade goods, it’s also an online community on its own. That enables buyers and sellers to interact on a personal level. Even more, however, it facilitates dialogue and relationships between artists who usually work alone.

Bland also spoke to ways in which she works to create content on her blog that enhances her connections with her collectors. She and Jeff Musser both use their blogs to showcase works in progress. That creates the sense that the blog reader is a part of the creative process of the artist, and that works to build the collector’s relationship with the artist.

Building that relationship was also important to Veronica Delgado, who is an artists’ representative. “When someone is buying your artwork,” she said, “they are making an investment in you.” It’s important, therefore, to create that space where the relationship can take place. Delgado urges artists just starting out to get a Facebook page, set up an Album and put photos of their work on it. “Then you can send an email to all your collectors that you’re on Facebook.”

The other thing all the panelists agreed on was the importance of spending time nurturing your social media connections. Blog posts must have content and Tweets must do more than promote. Art, after all, no matter the medium is a communication between artist and collector, a relationship that goes two ways.

Next month-- Tuesday, August 17--the SMCSac evening panel event will look at Sports and Social Media.

Some of the sites the panelists mentioned were:

Marianne Bland:

Etsy.com
BluDomain.com is a good template website provider & host with an image-heavy focus
MOO.com is a great place for artists to get business cards. They have mini cards that are half the size of business cards, $20 for 100, but you can upload up to 100 different images if you want.

 Eben Burgoon

Artist Porfolio Sharing:  DeviantArt - art community site for artists to display work and have it shared with the online community (http://www.deviantart.com)

  For cartoonists/illustrators looking to get a start on the web:  Webcomics. ( http://www.webcomics.com  )

The Webcomic List Forums:  (http://www.thewebcomiclist.com/forums/  )

ComicPress 2.9 - a wordpress theme built specifically to display sequential art ( http://comicpress.org/)

  Copyright Theft Watchdogs:  You Thought We Wouldn't Notice  A blog about copyright and design theft, notably busted Hot Topics thefts of late. ( http://youthoughtwewouldntnotice.com/blog3)

Jen Stewart

BigFolio: our website template designer (http://www.bigfolio.com) Also their SmallFolio option that can allow your site to be viewed on an iPhone (http://www.smallfolio.com/smallfolio.html)

Photographers forums:
OSP: ( http://www.opensourcephoto.net/forum/) free
DWF: (http://www.digitalweddingforum.com/) membership required
I Love Photography Forum: (http://ilovephotography.com/forums/index.php?act=idx) both free and paid membership options

The Saga of Steve Miller and the Photonazis

2010-07-18T10:04:15Z

Anyone want to buy some Steve Miller pictures?

No?

Sure? There are some great shots, and they’re only a few hours old.

Still no?

I didn’t think so, but apparently Steve Miller or someone within his organization, his promoter or someone within the hierarchy at the concert venue, Raley Field in West Sacramento, thinks there is some kind of demand for pictures from his concert Saturday night. How do I know? The following concert review-turned-rant should explain. But first, I promised a concert review, so here it is.

It was a good show. Miller played many of his hits, spewed some political opinion and made a lengthy solicitation for donations to his pet charity. All in all, his show lived up to my (lofty) musical expectations and went well beyond what I expected in those other two aspects. I didn’t pay $75 (including service fees and parking) to be solicited, no matter how worthy the cause. But at least Miller delivered when it came to the music. It was a good show.

Okay, now that the review is out of the way, here is the rant. Although Miller’s show probably deserves more words than the highly abbreviated review above, it is lucky that I was able to write anything at all. I almost had to leave before the show began - you see, I was carrying contraband. I didn’t sneak in any alcohol or outside food nor did I try to bring in any drugs, although judging from the odor wafting through the air I must have been in the minority. I was not armed and I was not fighting. I had a camera. Not just any camera, but a so-called “professional” camera. Nowhere on any of the numerous signs listing the items not allowed was the fact that cameras, professional or otherwise, were not allowed. The security guard who checked my camera bag for all those other banned items didn’t say anything and, furthermore, if you include cell phone cameras, virtually everyone had a camera and was taking pictures.

When Miller took the stage, I pulled my Canon 30D out of my bag and squeezed off four shots before an oversized security guard stopped me. He wanted to know where my photo pass was. I didn’t have one. I didn’t think I needed one. I wasn’t working for anyone; I was shooting because I take pictures. My camera is a notch above a consumer model, but it’s not exactly a professional model either. Regardless, after explaining how no one said anything about this policy to me, how it is written nowhere and if I had known I certainly could have obtained a photo pass, the guard told me that if I took my camera out of my bag again he would take it. I put my camera away, but I was not about to leave it at that. Unfortunately, I couldn’t tell you what the next three or four songs were because I was pissed off and trying to figure out who was going to answer for this.

My opportunity came when another patron found himself in the same predicament. He was shown to supervisor and I made my way over there to plead my case as well. This particular photographer had his press-pass with him (mine is no longer current and I didn’t have it with me anyway), but he too was informed that he needed the necessary photo pass to use his “professional” camera. I didn’t see what he was shooting with but it was a DSLR, not a point-and-shoot like most everyone else had. When I explained my situation to the supervisor, she informed me that, though not publicized, the lens I was using was not allowed and that I would have to leave. Leave? Things went from bad to worse; then I realized that their concern was the size of my lens. I told her I had a smaller lens and would be happy to switch it out. Bingo. But I did have to check in my “large, professional” lens with guest services.

Reluctantly (not because I thought I would need it, but because I was not too keen on leaving my lens with anyone) I handed my lens over to guest services. But I safely retrieved it after the show and the people working in guest services understood my frustration, though they had no control over whatever policy was in effect. It would appear that the score is now photonazis-1, Mike-0, but appearances can be deceiving. The lens I gave up was a 28-135mm zoom with an aperture range of 3.5 to 5.6. It’s a good lens, but not particularly effective in low light – and the sun was just setting. The “smaller” lens I put on was an 85mm with an aperture of 1.8. It was, in fact, a shorter lens, but in terms of the size of the glass – the determining factor in how much light is let into the camera - this lens is much, much bigger. And it was the lens I planned to switch to once the sun went down. Score change: Photonazis-1, Mike-2.

Now I was free to take pictures at will; the jumbo-sized security guard was informed and left me alone. And I got some good shots – several hundred, in fact. Once edited and compiled, there will likely be a good deal more than a handful that are worth keeping – but not worth anything more. There is no market for Steve Miller concert pictures. Furthermore, a Google search will turn up more than any die-hard Steve Miller fan’s heart could desire. Forgetting about egotistical paranoia for a moment, I’ll concede that Steve Miller has a right to limit or restrict photography, recording or any other use of his likeness, name or image and that the “professional lens” policy is a legitimate way to control such use, but not arbitrarily and not without notification. The policy, as my “small” lens use proves, involves a complex array of parameters not understood by those enforcing it and regarding the total lack of informing the audience of this policy, there is no defense.

I went ahead and edited a few shots for publication here. They are copyrighted – if anyone, especially Steve Miller, wants to use any of them, it will require my permission. For Steve Miller, that permission is available – at a price.

Food & photography workshop this Saturday

2010-07-07T01:45:22Z

Food journalist Elaine Corn and photographer Morgan Ong will be hosting a hands-on cooking and food photography workshop at Beatnik Studios starting Saturday. The two-day workshop will be on July 10 and 17 from 9:30 a.m. to noon and will cost $90 per person.

Corn hopes the workshop will enhance the increasing interest in food photography and blogging online.

"With blogging and food photography, I thought we'll just get the two together," she said. "We'll eat and style a little and everyone will get a chance to shoot their food."

Attendees can expect to improve their cooking and photography skills in many areas. The workshop will cover knife-work, knowing when food is done, camera setting adjustments, and props and styling.

Corn has been a food journalist for more than 25 years and has worked all over the country. She is a former food editor for The Sacramento Bee and led that section to many awards from the Association of Food Journalists. She currently covers food as a contributing reporter for Capital Public Radio. One of her more recent features was Broadway: Around the World in Thirty Blocks.

She is also the author of six cookbooks and received the Julia Child and James Beard cookbook awards for Now You're Cooking: Everything a Beginner Needs to Know to Start Cooking Today.

Ong has spent the last several decades as a photographer for The Sacramento Bee, Associated Press, Knight Ridder and McClatchy Newspapers. He has had work appear in the New York Times, Washington Post, Time and Newsweek.

"This is a way to increase their awareness of how food can be better presented in either blogs or postings online," Ong said about the workshop.

Ong said people can bring whatever cameras they use on a regular basis, whether it's the camera on your cell phone or a digital SLR.

The class will be very hands-on, with the participants most likely cooking something out of one of Corn's cookbooks. Those attending should plan on eating what they cook.

"Everyone will get a chance to cook," Corn said.

No prior sign up is necessary. Attendees can bring payment on the first Saturday of the workshop.

Images courtesy of Elaine Corn.

June 30 Camera Phone Photography Workshop

2010-06-21T17:52:39Z

When reporters don't have a camera with them they often resort to using their cell phones to take pictures. It can be hard to take good pictures with cell phones and the topic of our next workshop will address how to take better pictures by using phone applications and different settings.

The Camera Phone Photography Workshop will be June 30, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at The Urban Hive. It will be taught by Anthony Bento.

Bento has a B.A in film and digital media from UC Santa Cruz, where he photographed and reported on the 2004 presidential campaign and other political events. He has also worked as a product photographer in New York City and here in Sacramento as a freelance photojournalist for Sacramento News & Review, and as a community contributor to the Sacramento Press.

Bring your phone so we can look at the various settings and applications available for taking photos. In addition to discussing camera phones, Bento will go over the basics of general photography, including the rule of thirds, confidence and lighting. He will answer any of your individual questions about photography or cameras/phones.

If you're only interested in hearing about the camera phone portion, you can show up at 7:15 p.m. instead of 6:30 p.m.

The Urban Hive is located at 1931 H St.

We have a panel scheduled for Tuesday, June 22. Information for the Paying for Content Panel can be found here.

Pleasw RSVP for either event by e-mailing workshops@sacramentopress.com.

Social Media Rocks

2010-06-11T21:40:19Z

And it’s definitely going to be rocking next Tuesday evening when the Social Media Club of Sacramento (SMCSac) presents their next free event at the Urban Hive. The very fitting subtitle for a panel discussion? “How Social Media is Changing the Tune of Sacramento’s Music Scene.”

Our city has long had a vibrant music scene, and social media is changing the way people interact with it. Sites like Pandora, Last.fm, YouTube, iLike, and YourSpins put the users at the helm, allowing them to rate, distribute, and even remix music. SMCSac has planned an evening geared towards helping local bands and musicians leverage social media tools from production to promotion.

The panelists for Social Media Rocks are some of the leading lights in the Sacramento music scene, including

Clay Nutting, whose Concerts 4 Charity have produced more than 100 events over the past ten years with the aim of fostering a healthy independent music and arts community in Sacramento. http://claynutting.wordpress.com/.
Jerry Perry is a legend in the Sacramento music scene, He has been producing music events in Sacramento for nearly 30 years at venues such as Vortex and Cattle Club. He produces some 200 live shows in our area every year, including the popular Friday Night Concerts in the Park. http://www.facebook.com/jerryperrypresents
TAIS, which stands for Truth Arises in Search, is a hip hop artist and emcee whose group, Righteous Movement, has toured for six years using their music to advocate self awareness and the quest for personal truth through music. Touching on everything from careless partying to American political thought, TAIS leads the quest on the search for truth. http://www.taismusic.com

However, SMCSac is not planning an evening merely to talk about music. Following the panel discussion, DJ Rob Fatal, will be at the turntable providing sounds to complement the continuing conversations. In addition, sponsor Urban Hive is featuring "Portraits: 32 Singers, 32 Songs," a double disc compilation that is being produced by Off The Air, along with an art exhibit featuring the individual portraits of each songwriter by Nine by 9 Photography.

As with all Sacramento Social Media Club events, there is no cost to participate, but please register in advance at Eventbrite http://socialmediarocks.eventbrite.com/ as an accurate head count is needed for the appetizers and drinks that will be provided. The Urban Hive is located at 1931 H Street in Midtown. Check-in begins at 6:30 pm and the evening will go to 10 pm.

The Social Media Club brings together journalists, publishers, communications professional, artists, amateur media creators, citizen journalists, teachers, students, tool makers, and other interested collaborator. The Sacramento chapter was founded in March of 2009 by local users of social media. Jane Gassner is a member of the Leadership Committee of the Sacramento chapter.

local.indie.music.photos

2010-06-06T18:42:10Z

local.indie.music.photos combines photographer Amy Scott's love of both music and photography into a visual glimpse of the Sacramento music scene. As a regular in the Downtown/Midtown scene, throughout the past few years, she has shot hundreds of local Sacramento music shows and has uploaded literally thousands of photos to her Flickr page. Oftentimes you will find her near the stage at the latest show, camera in hand, ready to capture a band in all its glory.

On Friday, June 11, local.indie.music.photos, in collaboration with Luigi's Slice and Fungarden, present a showcase of around a hundred of Scott's local live band shots from the past year and a half. The show will feature live performances by local favorites Reggie Ginn, Carly DuHain, Ricky Berger (where you can catch her for her first Sacramento performance since her debut US tour), Justin Farren, and a special appearance by the duo Hardy Harr. Show is all ages and will be held at Luigi's Fungarden at 1050 20th Street in Midtown Sacramento. Doors open at 7:30, with a showtime of 8PM, and admission of $5.

Scott will also be available the following day for a reception during the Second Saturday Art Walk.

Take a peek at "Postcard," learn Sacramento history

2010-02-01T06:18:37Z

The Shack restaurant in East Sacramento was packed Saturday, the overflow filling the patio. So many people turned up for the book launch of photographer Tom Myers’ “Postcard History Series: Sacramento,” that he sold the 65 copies he'd brought in little over an hour.

The book is a visual history of Sacramento, taken from Myers’ collection of vintage postcards and supplemented with specific descriptions and historical details.

Myers began collecting postcards about six years ago as an extension of his interest in the history of the Sacramento area. His collection has grown to more than 680 postcards, most of them spanning the years 1905 to 1940.

The introduction to the book was written by Patricia J. Johnson, senior archivist at the Center for Sacramento History. She describes Myer’s interest in postcards as “an inexpensive way to ‘collect history."

The postcards are organized according to aspects of Sacramento, including downtown, railroads, rivers, parks, gold mining and agriculture.

A special feature of the book is a sampling of early-1900 messages found on the postcards.

“The message is sometimes the most interesting thing about the card,” Myers said.

In 2007, Myers, his wife, Sally, and son Jeff Myers published Sacramento Impressions, a collection of images representing the city’s history and culture.

Sally Myers, a professional photographer for Tom Myers Photography, said their book was included in baskets given to doctors considering moving here in order to give them an idea of what Sacramento is all about.

Jeff Myers, also a photographer, said of his parents,

“What they’re really about is stock photography. They have this huge library of hundreds of thousands of images going all the way back to Ansel Adams’ time. They do these books for fun, because it’s interesting and because they enjoy the local community.”

Visit Tom Myers Photography online.

Fall in Sacramento- Part 2

2009-12-03T21:39:42Z

Below is the second series of photographs taken by David Roberts during his bike rides around Sacramento

Center to Host Exhibition and Lecture on Sacramento Communist Trial

2009-11-13T16:51:43Z

Sacramento, CA – On Friday, December 4, 2009, the Center for Sacramento History (CSH) will unveil a new photographic exhibition, Red Menace! The Sacramento Conspiracy Trial of 1935. The exhibition documents Communist farm labor organizers on trial in Sacramento for attempting to “overthrow the government.” The evening will include an address about the trial by Dr. Kathryn Olmstead, a professor in the History Department at the University of California, Davis. The exhibition reception with light refreshments begins at 6:00 p.m., while the lecture begins at 7:30 p.m. at CSH (551 Sequoia Pacific Blvd, Sacramento). Tickets are $10.00 a person and must be purchased in advance at CSH or by calling (916) 264-7072.

The evening event will also include three behind the scenes tours of the CSH vault or storage area. The storage area is normally closed to the public, however CSH staff will give a guided tour to event ticket holders on a first-come-first served basis. Those wishing to take the tour should indicate this when purchasing tickets.

In 1935, in the midst of the Great Depression, seventeen farm labor organizers appeared in a Sacramento courtroom accused of Criminal Syndicalism – the attempt to overthrow the government by violent means. Red Menace! The Sacramento Conspiracy Trial of 1935 depicts the proceedings through Sacramento Bee images, original police arrest photographs, courtroom documents, and Communist literature. The trial captivated Americans from Sacramento to Washington D.C. as it exposed a perceived threat to the American way of life.

Dr. Olmstead is an expert on 20th century U.S. cultural and political history and the author of, Real Enemies: Conspiracy Theories and American Democracy, World War I to 9/11 by Oxford University Press. She has written two previous books on secrecy in the U.S. government. Her lecture that evening is entitled, “Blood and Sunshine: Farm workers, Unions, and the Great Sacramento Conspiracy Trial of 1935.” Dr. Olmstead will sign copies of her book, Real Enemies, which will be available for purchase that evening.

For more information please visit www.centerforsacramentohistory.org, or call (916) 264-7072.

CSH’s mission is to foster, stimulate, and promote the study and appreciation of Sacramento’s regional history. Since 1953, it has served the community by acquiring, preserving, exhibiting, and enabling access to the documentary and material culture of the region. CSH is administered by the City of Sacramento and is jointly funded by the City and County of Sacramento.

Interview: Ian Shive, Conservation Photographer

2009-11-05T05:56:04Z

Photos: 1) Ian Shive at work; 2) Sequoia National Park; 3) Yellowstone National Park

Interview by Tony Sheppard
Originally published in Capitol Weekly

Ian Shive, the photographer behind the new pictorial book "The National Parks: Our American Landscape" recently spent a day in Sacramento, visiting a management class in the Recreation, Parks and Tourism Administration program at Sac State. I asked him a few questions about his work and the value of parks in our lives:

Photography as a living is new to you – before it was more like a cell phone plan: Unlimited nights and weekends.

Very true [laughs].

What were you doing before and how did you get into this?

I was working as a publicist for Columbia Pictures, marketing mainstream films. I worked on at least 60 films for them. I worked on the “Spiderman” franchise. We broke some new ground. It was a time when grassroots marketing really became a critical part of that type of film. Photography for me was kind of a passion but never to the point where it is today. It was something that I enjoyed, it was something that gave me a creative outlet in an environment that was creative marketing, but not the same as creating something from scratch. As I entered into the world and made my photographs visible for people in the professional community I got a lot of response and that encouraged me to then do more of that and get more of a response and see how far I could take it.

In the world of photography, which could take you anywhere, why the National Parks?

They were the obvious place to go when I was a corporate, drone. I was looking for a much better word. They’re the obvious place to go because you know you don’t have the time to explore the entire coast of California and sure it’s beautiful but you have to go down to every beach and I had Saturday and Sunday. So the obvious choices were to go to Sequoia and to Yosemite, the places where you knew you could go into and you would at least have some great options in a very short period of time.

The other thing I have to say is that National Parks are crown jewels of what we have in wilderness. They are the best, they are the true icons of American culture. Also knowing that they’re so vast that the roads only cover a small part of it that there would still be room for exploration as well, that there would be a theme I could develop on.

You’ve described the National Parks essentially as islands of conservation in, presumably, oceans of disregard. What do you mean by that and how do we change our mindset?

Well, we have borders. National Parks have borders. They end, they have communities that build up around them, they have laws that only protect things up to that line. A good example is the Channel Islands in California. The marine sanctuary itself is just this little square and if you go on the edge of that square you can fish. What you see is boatloads on the edge fishing, right where the line ends.

Wildlife doesn’t understand what that means. How do you manage that, how do you effectively manage something when it’s the size of a tennis court? And that’s a sanctuary? For what?

And that’s always been a confusing thing to me and so I try and push an agenda that you can’t fence certain things in and they don’t work well if you do. I think a lot of biology and a lot of studies have proven that effective environment management has come in corridors.

You’ve called yourself a conservation photographer, rather than a nature photographer – how do you make that distinction?

Very simple. I feel the nature photographer does exactly what I do in the sense of photographing a beautiful landscape or wildlife or something like that. A conservation photographer takes those images and becomes an advocate for whatever they’re photographing. It’s advocacy that makes the difference – not just shooting something but working to protect it. The longer you spend in a place like Yosemite or anywhere wilderness…you realize that you’ve been borrowing from it: Maybe it’s solitude, maybe it’s a portfolio of images, maybe it’s “Grizzly Automotive” – you’re always borrowing from it but you’re never giving back.

When I was photographing in Henry Coe and a lot of other [California] State Parks, I had no idea that this issue would be happening – underfunding or cutting or closing them completely.

So what do you tell Californians now, who are watching this portfolio of extraordinary places at risk of neglect and underfunding?

We’ve got to fight it. We’ve got to find a way to fund it, find a way to fight it, and find a way to preserve it. I think the State parks are no less important than our National Parks. They’re not just about environment, they’re about culture, they affect people. The National Parks contribute $10 billion a year to their local economies. I believe State Parks have a major contribution in a similar way. I think the public needs to become stewards of these places and make sure they’re run properly. If we all contribute as a community because they’re for the community, then I think we’ll actually find some solutions that work and we can continue having these places.

Still hope to see fall colors

2009-10-11T18:02:17Z

See fall colors in Hope Valley!

Yesterday I went with a group of 13 photographers to Hope Valley to capture fall colors. We saw spectacular views.

Here is the route we roughly followed:

Hwy 50 to Mormon Emigrant Trail to 88, followed 88 over Carson Pass and through Hope Valley to 89, followed 89 over Monitor Pass (high and glorious views) to Hwy 395, took 395 North and looped back to 88, followed 88 back to 89 and take Luther Pass to Echo Summit and came back to Sacramento on Hwy 50. Caught a great sunset while passing Placerville.

Photos | Kati Garner

Moonrise over Florin

2009-08-06T05:22:26Z

Smoke-filled skies from afternoon grassfires along Florin Rd, south of downtown Sacramento, cleared for evening moonrise and sunset.

Photos | Kati Garner

Easter Bunny

2009-04-13T01:30:16Z

American River Parkway, 5:33 PM.

I'm not saying this bunny is necessarily the one. I'm just saying I photographed him on Easter.

The Stonehenge of Fair Oaks

2009-04-02T07:33:50Z

A megalithic ruin, built who knows when -- probably "hundreds of years before the dawn of time" -- the Stonehenge of Fair Oaks is not hard to find. Go to the Sunrise Area of the American River Parkway, walk east from the boat launch until you find an inconspicuous trail head on your right and follow it to the ruin.

Other than being a meet-up location for teenagers on four twenty and a canvass for taggers, the ruin has no discernible purpose. Conceivably, you could make a wish there and hope the ruin has special powers to make it come true. Dancing naked near the ruin sounds fun in the abstract, but it is not advisable due to its proximity to the fire road, which the rangers patrol frequently. It might be a nice spot for making out, assuming you haven't grown too jaded for such frivolity. (I know many of you have, alas). Patches of moss cover its east side; everyone knows that moss is conducive to romance.

Whatever purpose you give to the ruin, it awaits you in silence. Life is fleeting. Don't miss your chance to visit the Stonehenge of Fair Oaks.

Postscript.
The writer does not understand why people spend time and money geocaching, but if he did he might hide a message for you that read, "I don't know about you, but I was dragged here by an Angel. Note: This Angel, who is now become a Devil, is my particular friend; we often read the Bible together in its infernal or diabolical sense, which the world shall have if they behave well. So behave well."

You know, just to blow your mind.

Another spring walk

2009-03-29T02:41:58Z

Good taste prevents me from spelling out for you what it is about spring that really excites us, but the pipevine swallowtail butterflies (Battus philenor) in the photos above will give you some idea what I am talking about. After this all too literal hookup, the female will lay her eggs on the undersides of the leaves of the California Dutchman's-pipe vine, which is endemic to California.

The California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica) is hard not to love, being our state flower and all, but to tell you the truth its floppy, orange pedals annoy me. For one, the pedals are difficult to photograph. Secondly, they are too obviously beautiful. Like movie stars or fiscal years with never-ending budget fights, you can barely distinguish one from the next.

However, the poppy bud is really fantastic. It looks like a witch's hat.

By shooting up close and in underexposed natural light, I've made the blue dicks (Dichelostemma capitatum) above seem a bit more haunting than they really are. You'll mostly find this pleasant native of the West Coast of the United States in shady areas.

Finally, here is a rare glimpse of the Sacto Sasquatch (Sasquatchus Sacramentis). In addition to its unkempt beard, you can recognize this species by its habit of wearing horizonally striped shirts and being an annoying know-it-all. As Ms. Sasquatch has said on occasion, "Okay, let's hear what the expert has to say on the subject."

Vernal Equinox 2009

2009-03-21T22:13:25Z

The equinox happens twice a year: once in the spring and once in the fall. Due to the tilt of the earth as it orbits the sun, the relative length of daylight expands and contracts throughout the year. At the equinox, the length of the day is exactly equal to the length of the night. Actually, according to National Geographic News, "The true days of day-night equality always fall before the vernal equinox and after the autumnal, or fall, equinox." Traditionally, the equinoxes mark the beginning of spring and fall, whereas the solstices mark summer and winter.

Photos taken on the American River Parkway, near Sunrise Blvd.

100 Miles of Visibility Photos

2009-03-18T04:24:46Z

These are some photos I took last week when the skies were clear with 100 miles of visibility. It’s really stimulating to see the Sierra Mountains rise up behind the city creating a backdrop to the skyline.

Man Shoots in Sacramento Art Complex

2009-03-12T05:53:32Z

Five years ago, Alister Oliver never thought he would be a wanted man for shooting in K Street's Sacramento Art Complex, in fact it was only a few short months ago that he even heard of the Art Complex. Alister is shooting people with his camera and his very quick wit.

Alister is the owner of a new photography studio called "Alister....." which is located in the center of the new Sacramento Art Complex. I met Alister while I was helping my girlfriend, artist Lori Wylie at her textured metal art studio located just below his studio at the complex. Alister would come down and put his two cents worth in with humor and some great suggestions into better ways that I might be able to perform my duties as an artist slave. LOL...(oh the things we do for love, but I enjoy helping Lori no matter what Alister says). Anyways, Alister was so interesting that I thought that his story would make a good story for the Sacramento Press readers.

Alister is not your typical photographer. He appears to be very Hollywood with his good looking Guy Fieri look, but he is definitely Sacramento, and his Fieri hairstyle is actually his own, color and all. His photography style is all his own as well and that is why many people want Alister to hit them with his best shot.

Alister, 35, now married with two children ages 4 years old and 18 months, came over from England in 1986 when he was about 12 years old. It was when he was five ears old that he picked up his first camera and began taking pictures of worms in the yard. He was learning how to make worms smile and strike a pose when most boys his age were still learning how to tie their shoes. Just for the fun of it he started shooting all kinds of subject matter and was in the early stages of defining his future, and at that time he didn't even know that was what he was doing.

About five years ago he lost his job, when losing a job was still taboo, he realized his love for photography could be his "sweet spot" in life. Typically as a professional photographer you shoot whatever will get you a paycheck and so Alister did the usual people, wedding, events and a host of other shoots. But Alister also had another love in this life and that love was with the automobile. He really enjoyed taking pictures of cars. Aahhhhh, now this is the life of Alister. Taking pictures of automobiles with people for money. Now that was a match made in Alisters dream and his bank account.

Alister discovered the Sacramento Art Complex a few months ago and believed that his work with the camera is really "art" and so do the people who use his artistic talents behind the camera. He belonged at the art complex with all the other complex personalities that make up the colors on the canvas there. As a contributor for the Sacramento Press, I hope to feature a different artist at least once a week. Alister went ahead and rented a space at the complex and his business immediately began to expand and his presence in the photography world was beginning to create a clearer picture for his future.

Alister mentioned that one of the reasons he enjoys his work with portraits of people so much is because he likes to hear from them what their story is and the purpose of the portrait he is doing. He also said that he is very entertained when a soccer mom looking woman will come in and want him to do boudoir shots for other activities that they are involved in besides soccer. You will have to read between the lines on that one which could be another story altogether. Photographers get all kinds of request for special pictures. Sometimes the best thing to do is to not ask questions.

On May 19th at the Complex, there will be an event that Alister will be doing the photography that is called the "History of Her". He will be shooting professional body painters who will do live body painting on women's bodies to make them look like historical men of "fame and fortune". This should be an interesting event and you will want to mark your calendars.

Today Alister is preparing for this weeks Second Saturday Art Walk where hundreds or perhaps thousands of people will fill the downtown streets and enjoy the fruit of the labors of many local artist which also includes musical artist as well as other forms of art. Rain or shine the Art Complex will be full of people looking to see the talents of the Sacramento areas artist.

In case you have never been to the Sacramento Art Complex it is located at 2110 K Street. It is open daily but not all artist are in there daily. Even if they are not there you can still walk down the hallways and see their beautiful art through the windows of their private studios and get an idea of what they do. Better yet, join them this Saturday. Activities start in the late afternoon and continue until about 9 or 10pm.

Except for the few pictures I took(which are obvious), all photographs shown here are by Alister with his permission. If you would like more information contact him at 916 521-8846. View his website www.alisteroliver.com

Bird pond

2009-03-11T04:57:35Z

These photos were taken at a pond near the American River at Sunrise Blvd. Birds, who have spent all day feeding in the river, flock to the pond at sun down to spend the night. There are turtles, too. But turtles are much more camera shy than birds.

Mud-luscious and puddle-wonderful

2009-02-14T04:12:18Z

"The world is mud-luscious and puddle-wonderful." — E.E. Cummings

Photos taken ARP/Sunrise Bridge.

Keep right and straight on to the birds

2009-01-16T22:59:59Z

AR Parkway, near Sunrise Blvd.

Haik Kocharian - A Single Moment

2009-01-13T21:37:02Z

Haik Kocharian is from Armenia. He graduated from the Armenian Theater Academy in 1994 and moved to New York where he became a photojournalist.

Inspired by the dynamics of New York city, Kocharian developed his style over the next ten years, contrasting the relationship between a subject and his or her environment.

After graduating from Brooklyn College's Photography and Film programs, he began working as a professional fine art photographer.

Kocharian has participated in numerous charity auctions, donating his photography to good causes, and has won a number of awards for his photos, including being a finalist in the Smithsonian Magazine Annual Photo Competition.

He currently lives and works in New York City. In addition to being a photographer, Kocharian is also a singer/songwriter and filmmaker.

His exhibit, A Single Moment, ran through the month of December at Appel Gallery, but Steve Appel, the gallery owner, will still show the photos if asked. The gallery is based on the idea that "Our life is nothing more than an accumulation of countless moments." Kocharian's personal website attached at the bottom of this article also displays his photos. His short film "Charlie" was aired on PBS last July and his album "Heaven" was released in 2007, now available on iTunes.

I asked Kocharian about his life, his art, his equipment, and his plans for the future.

What was life like growing up in Armenia?

I grew up surrounded by artists from different backgrounds - sculptors, photographers, theater directors, actors and so on. So from a very early age I grew up in a world of art. It was wonderful. I have wonderful memories of my childhood, the early part of my youth, and teens. It was full of life and full of wonder. That period of my life has a lot to do with who I am now.

What is your regular equipment for shooting photography?

I shoot with a Canon 35mm. I print with Inkjet equipment on artists' canvas paper.

Who is a photographer that you admire who has influenced you, and what kind of photography inspires you the most?

Photos that inspire me the most are ones that connect with something private within myself. I am inspired when I can relate to the image on a personal level, understand the story it tells, and the emotion it provokes. I am inspired by the image that speaks to me as friend or someone I trust and I'm interested in. I would probably be unable to single out one name simply because I have been inspired by so many artists in so many ways. My work is constantly influenced by the art that surrounds me, an ongoing discovery of self.

Some of your photos have people as your subjects. Are they people you know or do you go to different places and capture anonymous subjects in a specific moment?

It's almost always anonymous subjects in a specific moment. Usually it revolves around the idea of some individual within an environment. As the title of the show reflects, it's usually a fraction of a moment that tells a short story that I emotionally connect with. Occasionally, I mix that with a little bit more conventional photography when I do know the subject. Let's say I am working on one particular project and one of the images catches that symbolic meaning or visual style that corresponds with the voice of my work. Then, I include it in in my portfolio.

I also noticed that some of your photographs have some elements of nature - rain or fog, or a body of water. Are you inspired by nature as well?

Absolutely. I believe that in general my work is the relationship of the individual, a human being, and the surrounding nature - whether it be an ocean, a forest, a foggy environment, the snow, or an urban environment. All of it for me, if you can put it in the context of nature, makes it a relationship between a person and environment. I am fascinated with the beauty in nature, and the transformation that nature brings, such as fog, snow, and rain. Water, of course, is a very dynamic visual attribute to the photography. So yes, environment and nature are very much a part of my photography.

After you've taken the photograph, before you've printed it do you process your photo at all?

I only apply very limited, conventional photographic applications such as contrast or exposure, or dodging or burning, but there are no additional effects. What you actually see is just the one shot. Just a single image.

What are your plans for the future?

Currently, I am working on the exhibition of the working knowledge of the self. This show has been photographed entirely in India. It is a trilogy. It revolves around the subject of searching for a person, revealing him or herself in the quest for better knowledge of themselves, and an ideal birth or death. Currently the images have been shot, and my editor and I are now working on the final stages. We are hoping to have an exhibition in New York City this year.

Was this your first exhibition in Sacramento? Have you ever been to Sacramento?

It was my first show in Sacramento. I unfortunately have not been to Sacramento, but I am looking forward to visiting.

How did you come into contact with the Appel Gallery?

I wanted to have some representation in California, and I did some research looking in to the galleries that are listed on the web, and some I felt were inappropriate for the kind of work that I'm doing. When I saw Appel gallery, I really liked the artists that are represented. You get a sense looking at the website the type of gallery it is. I contacted him, and he liked what I'm doing, and the rest is history. We had our show.

http://haikkocharian.com/
http://www.haikkocharianfilms.com/
www.myspace.com/haikkocharian

Alley # 2

2008-12-23T16:31:47Z

So my favorite picture is the paint splatters that have created art by covering up another form of art. Funny how that works.

Ok so name this alley way. The first one to correctly name the cross streets gets a reusable sacpress.com grocery bag.

Sactown photography at Viewpoint Gallery

2008-12-13T21:19:57Z

Sactown magazine, one of the newest regional magazines to our area just released their second anniversary issue. What better way to celebrate its second anniversary than to have some of its award-winning photography shown at the Viewpoint Gallery?

From December 12, 2008 to January 3, 2009 the Viewpoint Gallery will be showing, "The Photography of Sactown Magazine: The First Two Years."

Sactown has won a number of awards in the relatively short time it has been around. This year, Sactown won a National City & Regional Magazine Award for its June/July photo essay, "In Harm's Way" and also a Maggie Award for its August/September issue.

Sactown was also a winner at the Communication Arts Photography Competition - for the second time in two years. Communication Arts boasts its photography competition as the most prestigious for creativity in the nation. Most of the winners include magazines like Rolling Stone, National Geographic, Time magazine and other nationally recognized publications.

The photos chosen for the exhibit range from politics to celebrities to fashion to war.

Rob Turner and Elyssa Lee, co-editors-in-chief of Sactown, will be at the Second Saturday reception tomorrow December 13. The reception will start at 5 p.m. and end at 9 p.m.

For more information, visit Viewpoint Gallery's Web site: www.viewpointgallery.com

After closer inspection, the details prove beautiful

2008-12-10T21:49:19Z

I have always loved the alleyways in the central city and wanted to document the amazing gems that lived just a few steps of the beaten path. The original shot is from the main road and the following are some of the items I chose to shoot. I plan to repeat this process for many streets in the central city. After this first post I will not name the street and I would love to see if the community here on sacpress.com can figure out were each weeks post comes from.

Week one is 10th and Q

Photo update

2008-11-27T00:42:01Z

Photo credit-

Riverview Media Photography
Tia Gemmell

www.phototia.com