FresnoArts Artists Interviews

Artist in Focus: Savannah Cortez

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:25:00 GMT

Savannah “Savvy” Cortez is another one of our young and talented members in FresnoArts.net. She’s also a graduate of the Art Institute of California Orange County, with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Game Art and Design. Being an art lover ever since she can remember, Savvy’s website has one clear message about her passion for the arts: “I love games, art, comics, movies, and music, and I love them all to the MAX!” Here’s the rest of her interview.

Please tell us something about yourself:

During high school I knew I wanted to do something with my art and I began to search for avenues to use my talent to make a career for myself. At first I was lost in my search and I tinkered with the ideas of comic books or video games, but I really didn’t know where to begin. I tried getting connected with different industry people; when I came across the Art Institute and found that they offered a degree specializing in video games. The school became a stepping stone into the video game industry.

What makes game and graphic design so interesting for you?

I’ve been into games since I realized what a game was, how to play it, and when my sister would actually let me play on our Nintendo. I was a latch key kid growing up. Taking care of myself and keeping me occupied was adopted at an early age.

Coming home from school meant being home alone and I was left to my own devices which usually were drawing, video games, and television. In high school I was lucky enough to meet some amazing friends, which I’m still in contact with today; and one being my husband, who also shared my geeky interests. Ever since then, video games have been a standard factor in connecting with people, and making friends.

What are your challenges in creating your designs and how do you overcome them?

Some challenges that I encounter rather often is creativity blockage and over focusing on trivial pieces of a concept, or image. What I do to fix this is either take a break and clear my mind, or do more research on the subject.

I find research as a great tool because it helps answer questions, and fill in blanks that are not contained in my library of knowledge. I find research from lots of Google-ing and bargain coffee table books that I get from Barnes and Noble.

About once a year, to keep my artist juices flowing, I read The War of Art by Steven Pressfield. Pressfield is a writer, but his book pertains to all artists that have ever experience a blockage for creativity.

Please describe your gaming design equipment and how they help you design your works.

My tools of the trade are a sketchbook, pencil, my computer, Adobe Photoshop CS5, and an old Bamboo Wacom tablet, which I’m aiming at replacing very soon.

I normally don’t use my sketchbook as a tool to scan in my sketches as actual pieces, instead I use my sketch book as a place to throw down my ideas however dumb, or ugly they might be. I try to carry a sketchbook with me wherever I go to have it handy in case a thought jumps into my head.

When I’m ready to create a piece, I use Photoshop along with my Wacom tablet. For those not familiar with a Wacom, it enables the user to essentially paint within the computer. The Wacom is my bread and butter and allows for pen sensitivity and movement. In Photoshop I have several brushes that allow me to make different textures and strokes instead of a plain saturated line.

How can people contact you for tips, ideas, or any project proposals?

I’d be happy to help anyone that has any questions about my work or tips on how I create my work through these sites.

http://my.fresnoarts.net/profile/SavvyCortez
http://www.youtube.com/user/SavvyCortez?feature=mhee
http://savvyart.blogspot.com/
http://savvycortez.tumblr.com/
http://willowofthetime.deviantart.com/

I know it can be hard to find a path into video games when you grow up in Fresno, so I’m especially active in shining some light on the video game industry for people who are interested.

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Artist in Focus: David Samuels

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 00:04:00 GMT

Ladies and gents, introducing David Samuels. A former record label owner, David is a diverse artist in the field of modern arts such as poetry, abstract painting, and music. Music and the arts in general have a great influence and impact of who he is today. We hope that you get to know David and have fun reading this as much as I had fun interviewing him.

Please tell us something about yourself and how you got started as an artist

My name is David Samuels. I grew in the central valley of California and began having a passion for creating at a young age. Around the age of eight the Hip Hop culture made a huge impact on my life. I remember I was at the mall with my mom one day when I saw a group of people standing in a circle.

In the center of the circle there was a teenage kid spinning on his back (breakdancing), while another kid made a drum beat with his mouth known as beatboxing. I was amazed by this. I spent the rest of the year learning to breakdance and listening to a lot of drumbeats. I stopped breakdancing during my senior year of high school.

At the age of nine, I picked up my first set of drum sticks and played the drums on everything. Soon after, I joined the school band to learn how to read music. I stayed involved playing percussion from fifth grade until my junior year in high school. It's funny that it seems that in fifth grade I somehow automatically fell into a life of wanting to be different from the kids and people around me.

Well, it wasn't really a case of wanting to be different, but more like knowing that I had a different interest on how I spent my time. While others were playing video games, out riding bikes, and doing other average kid activities I was spinning on my head on a piece cardboard in my backyard, and playing the drums in my bedroom. Heavily influenced by Hip Hop I naturally fell into the elements that surrounded and made up this culture.

At the age of twelve, I found myself jotting down rhymes next to doodles that I would draw in class. These little rhymes slowly developed into poems. These poems that I wrote were structured very similar to the way a song is written. So, I decided to write songs. I still continue to write in my notebook every single day. The doodles/sketches that took up some much space on blank pages became my own style of graffiti. I took my art to the train yards and other public places. I went by the nickname Murdoc.

The reason for it is a long story that I would be happy to tell anyone in person. I would DJ in high school for fun. I became quite the turntablist. My little brother Joshua (Shua) played the guitar, so we were constantly working together. We formed a band called Semantics where I was the vocalist and the DJ. We released a project which was self titled.

What made you create Mind Theater Records and who were the artists recorded under the label?

I started an independent record label called Mind Theater Records. It stayed active from 2003-2010. It had several talented hip hop artists. Some of the artist that I produced were A. Hymnz, Defiant Intellex, Phaze one, Earth Tone, Splynter, and many, many others.

I began promoting the label by booking shows in clubs, and tours. We performed with some of underground hip Hop's biggest names. Some quick mentions are Awol one, 2mex, Myka Nine and many others. A Mind Theater Hip Hop show became popular in the Fresno area. We would have live artist painting while bands or rappers performed. It was sort of our way in becoming the alternative Hip Hop scene in Fresno.

In 2008, I followed up with my second solo project titled In Other Words. I went on a west coast tour called The Paint Your Words Tour to promote the album. On the tour there was a photographer named Sharri Keller from Satori Innovation that featured us in a hard copy "photo coffee table book". It was published a year later; the book is titled The Paint Your Words Tour, A Collective Adventure. It's awesome!

In FresnoArts you said something about finishing an album. What’s the album title and what type of songs should we expect?

I just finished an album with my new band Autumn Not Taken. The album is titled When The Stunt Man Became The Pin Cushion, the release date is still in the works. It's a concept album about the life of a daredevil/stunt man. I am very proud of it. I started working on another solo project titled Buried In A Tuesday Morning. I hope that I can finish it by the spring of 2012.

Please describe your book and where you get your inspiration.

Since the tour I have been focusing on completing a book that is still currently untitled. The book will consist of photographs, paintings, sketches, poems, short stories, and lyrics. The music I make nowadays is much different than anything that I have ever done. It has much more depth, and has matured in a way that blends everything that I have worked hard for together.

Do you have any upcoming shows or events you wish to promote?

As far as my art, I am very happy to say that I have a showroom of my paintings at the Sorensen's Studio and Gallery. I was this year’s winner of The Chris Sorensen award for The Pink Show. I love doing what I do, and I hope to have a chance to share my art with others. I also look forward to working and meeting new people.

Thank You for allowing me to share a glimpse of my life. I appreciate your time.

-David Samuels

See more of David’s art by visiting his profile in the FresnoArts.net community page.

Featuring Upcoming Artists: Erica Rodriguez and Mayaprimavera Flores

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 03:44:00 GMT

One of the great things of having a network where all artists come together is that you can spot upcoming artists that have a lot of potential. In FresnoArts.net , we are honored to have Erica Rodriguez (21) and Mayaprimavera Flores (Antigone Poe, 27), two budding artists showing remarkable talent and passion for artistic creativity.

Please tell us something about yourself.

Erica: I'm a senior art major at Fresno State, with an emphasis in drawing and painting. I love to look at some of the contemporary artworks in art history books and through the internet. Aside from my artsy side, I love to listen and discover new music. I'm kind of a Pandora freak because some of the stuff I'm into is not usually played in the stations in your typical car radio.

Maya: I'm a Fresno City College graduate with my AA in English and I'm transferring to CSU Fresno for next Spring semester, 2011. I'm of mixed descent, Mexican, American, and East Indian, and I grew up in Fresno.

I took a year and a half of drawing at FCC and I won a first place art award in the Fresno City College literary magazine, The Ram's Tale in 2006 for a charcoal piece, Dented Aluminum Jug. I also had a poem published in the October 2008 edition of the Fresno Undercurrent (with the alias Versell Louzat).

What do you do on your spare time?

Erica: I like to spend a lot of my time in the studio. When I'm not there, I like to sketch things in my sketchbook, whether it's a still life of what's in front of me or what I'm thinking at that moment.

My sketchbook is basically there to record anything that's in my mind--random moments of happiness, lyrics to favorite songs or observing my surroundings. It's nice to have a private place to put my thoughts into it.

Maya: I love to be creative, be it through writing, drawing, painting, photography, creating noisy experimental electronic music or crafting poetry. I also love to read, my favorite books at the moment are Basquiat, Banksy's Wall and Piece, and The Selected Poems of Anna Akhmatova. I love to discuss cinema, art, poetry, and writing in general with friends.

What is your chosen media for painting?

Erica: I've come to like working with oils the best. Acrylics dry too fast, even with a slow-drying medium.

Maya: At the moment it's poster paint (tempera) and small amounts of acrylic.

Erica: In what way can you say that your art is influenced by your family history and Nicaraguan roots?

Family is really tight in Nicaragua--we're really close but also very distant because of the obvious distance between here and Nicaragua. When I see old photographs of my families (both immediate and extended), I'm always curious about the past.

Lately, some significant changes [are] happening in my life and my family. I've been paying close attention to things like health issues and how it can affect me, my cousins and future generations to come. And that has influenced my exploring of subject matter.

As budding artists, how do you get yourself known in the industry?

Erica: Like any artists trying to show their works, I've dealt with a lot of rejections. I know that it sucks to have works not getting accepted to certain shows, but then again not everyone is going to like the work that I do. I just try to remain optimistic and seek out other places that are willing to take in works from up-and-coming artists, or places that appreciate my style of painting and subject matter.

Maya: For me it's an innate drive to produce, to communicate, to share and to bond that gives me momentum. Also, I like to ask myself, “would I regret not trying this if I were on my deathbed tomorrow?”

Who is your favorite artist and why?

Erica: One of the artists I'm currently referencing for some of the works I've done is a Belgian contemporary painter named Michael Borremans. I like how he places his figures in odd situations and environments in which some ways, are visual references to how I render figures in my own works.

Maya: Jean-Michel Basquiat. His color choice, his drawing method, his commentary, his play of words, and his technique of making layers of paint overlap make his art stand out, almost in a 3-D, IMAX experience kind of way. Even though he reached fame status, I think we still have yet to discover the extent of his contribution to art history

Maya, I find your blog post Poster Painting My Life Away quite touching. How do you create your works of art when faced with lack of appropriate media?

Thank you for reading! Let's just say I have a tall, broken mirror with the back paneling covered in poster paint, plain old computer printer paper with drawings done in a #2 pencil, and a “series” of 3 by 5 note-cards with the blank side done up in crayola pastels, charcoal, and black ink pens.

Anything is a surface. Hopefully, the art itself transcends its modest canvas so that a desk, a chair, a paper bag from Foods Co. can all be used with the same intensity as one would use with a thirteen dollar canvas and a hundred bucks worth of oils.

My mother is tired of telling me to stop eying the chairs. “But wouldn't they look cute in gold and blue?” “I'm still upset over 'Little Wooden Chair with Baby Blue Streaks,” she told me.

What is your goal as an artist?

Erica: I hope I can be able to grow as far as communicating with other people is concerned. I'm a very shy and reserved person and sometimes, it's hard for me to come out of my shell and communicate. I feel I communicate better visually through my drawings and paintings.

And I hope to keep experimenting with different media and techniques because who knows - something accidental can really be a benefit to how I would want to express my ideas through my works.

Maya: To push what society thinks is “aesthetics” in terms of beauty, precision of line, color harmony, and modernism. Also, to startle the optics of the viewer.

Both of you are new artists in your own right. Do you conform to standards of traditional arts, or do you prefer to go against convention and do your own style?

Erica: I can't really say precisely where I fit into either of these, but I like to think that my body of work balances with both elements of art. While I focus on figures, I like to experiment with the paint with different textures and techniques to how I render these figures and their environments. Lately my works have been rendered in a way that viewers can be able to question why these figures are painted in such a way that they are altered or why they are in a particularly odd space. I think by experimenting with how the paint moves, it could give the painting a lot more content.

Maya: I am still testing the waters. Sometimes in art class I would come in and the teachers would really knead me into a more academic mold.

“This is beautiful, but it's not the assignment,” was a phrase I heard repeatedly. On the other hand, in poetry class, my professor told me to push deeper into my writing, to really go out there, not just to horse around with alliteration and assonance. So I'm still looking for a life philosophy and for my artistic roots.

Do you have a message you wish to share to all aspiring artists out there?

Erica: Keep experimenting. I know it's kind of a generic thing to say, but sometimes experimenting with the resources you have can create something unusual or interesting. As far as showing your works is concerned, keep an eye out for galleries that are calling for artists. Juried or not, it's nice to get your hard work noticed. But more than anything, take a look at some of the artworks that are out right now in the art scene whether it's local or in a major museum. If you see something you like, look up some of the artists and their works to see if you can take some of that influence into your works.

Maya: When that Creation Moment happens in your head scribble it down ASAP. You can rework it later into a finished product. The first step is to get the vision from the mind to the page, from imagination to reality. Also, never be afraid to learn or unlearn at will.

Communicate and get to know more about these two artists by visiting Erica’s and Maya’s profile in FresnoArts.net. One of Erica’s paintings has been selected for a group exhibit wom•an•ful•ly , which will be held at Arts Visalia. Exhibit will be from March 2-25, 2011, with Reception on Friday, March 4, 2011 at 6-8pm.

Maya’s not yet having any exhibit at the moment; but if you’re looking for fresh and upcoming artists, you can check out her works over at FresnoArts.net. Maya’s having ideas on creating her own website, so look out for her in the future.

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Artist in Focus: Naomi Hendrix

Tue, 04 Jan 2011 09:54:00 GMT

We first introduced Naomi in our article Naomi Hendrix: How Eating Raw Can Lead to a Healthier Mind and Body. Aside from being a health advocate, Naomi also has photography up her sleeve. All her photos found in her FresnoArts page reflect her patience and dedication in capturing that great moment. As you flip through her album, you’ll never fail to notice that her pictures reveal her love of life.

How did you get started as an artist?

You know, I have always been an artist as long as I can remember. As a child I was very creative, always figuring things out. I was 9 when I got my first camera - it was a Kodak Instamatic 126.

What got you interested in photography?

I studied photography in the 90's, taking courses at Fresno City College. I fell in love with the art & never put it down.

What’s your common subject for your photographs, and why?

I mostly photograph wildlife & my only grandson Logan.... the life that shows up in the picture always amazes me - the stillness, the beauty is breathtaking to me. If it works, don't break it.

What places have you been to in your search for that perfect subject?

I've not been abroad yet, but have photographed in Kauai, Maui, Puerta Verte and many States. But some of my favorites where taken in my own back yard.

Your photos are so full of life. How were you able to capture these pictures?

Being patient & present (in the moment).

Your "Wild Life" series was created because of the simple but amazing creatures you see visiting your son's Memorial Court Yard. Please describe your son Ian and what inspired you to create a Memorial Court Yard for him.

Most people go to a graveyard to visit a tombstone when a family member dies. I felt it was important, & healing for myself & my family. To see parts of Ian in the form of a courtyard where I created with my own hands; garden plaques with his treasures as a child, [and] footsteps made with his shoes as I wore them through the wet cement to create the feeling that he walks through this courtyard all the time.

My beloved son Ian was always full of life, enjoying the outdoors. So when he transitioned to his new adventure at 21 yrs old, I continued to see him everywhere I looked in Nature as I was "present." [While] Watching the hummingbird bathe in the Memorial Fountain, I was washed with the love that its beauty had to offer. Each day this hummingbird came at the same time, so I sat & waited for him. I wanted to share this feeling I received, so I began to get some beautiful shots; thus the story of "Ian's Wild Life Series"

You had an ArtHop event last June featuring your “Wild Life” series. Can you describe what it was like to have your first ArtHop?

My "Wild Life" series has shown at 3 venues in the last few years. My first Arthop was @ the New Thought Community http://newthoughtcommunity.org/, from there it hung @ Cafe 225 in Visalia, then for the month of June 2010 it was on the first floor of the Fresno City Hall. It was hard to believe it was really happening to me I thought only famous photographers had art shows...so it was very exciting.

When do you plan to have your next show?

Currently, my 15-piece “Living Food” series is hanging at Whole Farms Market Revive Café.

How are you now in terms of photography compared to when you started?

Still in love & take pictures everyday.

Where do you see yourself and your art 10 years from now?

I see myself still capturing moments of beauty as I do today......& I see 20 x 30's hanging in beautiful public buildings for the next generation to enjoy.

Naomi is having her Artist Reception Special Valentine Event on February 11, 2011 at the Revive Café located at 1807 Broadway. This Friday event will run from 6pm to 8pm, where she will be featuring her Raw Food Series.

As a health advocate, Naomi is also inviting you to her “New Year, New Body!” This is her new series of Raw Food Classes from January 8-22, 2011 at WFM – Revive Café (1:30pm-3:30pm). And if you are interested on vermicomposting, Naomi will also have her “Worms Eat My Trash” class on February 26, 2011 at Whole Foods Market patio (2pm-3pm).

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Artist in Focus: Marcos Dorado

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 14:35:00 GMT

Marcos Dorado is a remarkable artist who captures each person’s personality through drawings. When I saw his drawings, the first thing that I noticed was his painstaking attention to detail. Drawing people is not that easy, especially when you view art the same way as Marcos does. Each of his work is a combination of research, skill, and creativity. Aside from taking the time to sketch and draw his subjects, Marcos also takes the time to get to know his subjects better if possible. Drawings are not merely drawings, but art that is meant to educate each and everyone about appreciating and respecting the uniqueness of each individual.

What got you started as an artist?

I began drawing as a child, but I did not consider art as a career at the time. I drew continuously until the age of fifteen. Upon my divorce, at the age of 30, I returned to drawing. At first, it was a hobby as before.

However, I decided on a major change in my life. I wanted to go in a direction that would truly fulfill me and in which I may also reach others. Because I consider art to be a language like music or French, I was certain that I would be able to communicate with others through drawing.

What do you see in people that inspire you to draw them?

From an artistic point of view, people are stories. Everyone has accounts that intrigue me. Perhaps one has a tale about her first professional mixed martial arts bout, another could tell me about living in Fresno since 1920, while a third shares his challenges as a single father. To me, real life stories are among the most beautiful things that can be offered.

I recall that as a child, my favorite literature was biographies. This has not changed. Now, I am moved to represent through drawing faces and figures that are willing to share intimate details about their lives. These move my spirit and I hope that viewers have a similar reaction.

Posing can be very hard, and in your blog you mentioned that one model posed for a total of 12 cumulated hours. How did you manage to help the model keep the pose for that total amount of time?

Generally, I work with models in 3-hour sessions at a time. Therefore, when I say that a model posed for 12 hours, I mean that we met four times. Every 20 minutes or so, we take a five-minute break. This is a standard approach in art, by the way. Sometimes, my models pose for over 20 hours. In other cases, four hours is enough. It all depends on the nature of the composition. In December, I'll start on the first piece of a series of life-sized nudes, full length.

The first model is from out of town and will drive to Fresno for our meetings. Therefore, we're planning six-hour sessions. We'll meet three or four times. There's another young lady who has contacted me about posing. She lives in the bay area and will make the trip to meet me with me. We'll do all that I need from her presence in one day as the work will be for a portrait.

Honest Man - still a work in progress.

What fascinates you so much with the human body that you take the time to continually immortalize it on paper?

What fascinates me about it is a combination of elements. Sometimes, it's the line of the figure. Other times, it's the mood the pose evokes. There's a model, for example, in New York City who's every pose feels like the perfect pose. She changes position, and then you are captivated all over again. There's something natural and enchanting about her spirit.

As I get to know a model, though, my fascination becomes more personal. My pencils seem to work with a greater insight about the essence of the person who's there nude before me. This is quite a beautiful exchange of information, spirit and truth between model and artist.

What do you see in people that makes you want to take out your sketchbook and draw them?

Drawing in cafés and other public places is quite interesting. I am not picky about whom I drawing. Anyone is a potential model. The point is to practice. Therefore, I simply look and draw. Sketching quickly is essential as the unsuspecting model does not hold the pose long, usually.

At times, I am able to develop a complete contour. This happens most often when a person is reading. Every person around me offers an opportunity for drawing. I always find something interesting about anyone. It may be the pose, or the spirit of the person.

How did you train yourself in order to become proficient in your field of arts?

Most of my training has been upon my own volition. It began in fourth grade. I was tenacious about drawing until the age of fifteen. After my divorce at the age of thirty, I returned to drawing. That was in 1999. Ten years ago I took one semester at Fresno City College under the Nanete Maki-Dearsan. This did much in teaching me how to work with a model.

Thereafter, it was the countless hours of drawing each week, over the years that really developed my art. There is great value in copying Michelangelos and Poussins, for example. In addition, my research of contemporary figurative artists has proven quite helpful. During the past eight years, I've developed a digital library of over 6,000 images of paintings and drawings. All represent the figure and about 98% are by living artists. Building this library was a great way to learn about the figure today and also who are the leading artists/instructors in the nation.

Finally, my recent formal training has taken place at the Art Students League and the Grand Central Academy of Art, both in New York City. Both are amazing schools. The League has a great history and many of the greatest artists in the US have attended there. The GCA is one of the most sought after schools nowadays with students from all over the world on a waiting list. I'm quite lucky to have studied at both schools.

A number of artists have enrolled in your workshops. What is the usual profile of your students in terms of art expertise, desire to learn, purpose of learning, etc?

I usually have about a dozen participants in my workshops. It's a number that still allows me to give everyone proper attention. I welcome more if I only do a demonstration. Participants vary from beginners to fairly experienced. Some consider art as a hobby while others are serious artists aiming to expand their knowledge about the human figure.

How do you keep your students inspired as they go through the course?

First, I'm always excited about teaching. I believe that my energy affects my students. Next, I've developed a curriculum that allows students immediate success in small increments. As the hours pass, students are able to see their own progress. Their own results create a natural enthusiasm in the class.

It can be very competitive to land a show in New York City. How did you manage to secure a spot in this high-profile area?

Indeed, New York City is competitive. Two elements have materialized my first solo exhibit there. First, it's my devotion to improving my technique in drawing. Secondly, my research over the years has provided me much insight about art throughout the country, specifically in the Big Apple.

Therefore, when I visit NYC, I'm better prepared for networking with the right people. At the same time, my work has matured. Both aspects of being an artist were the key to gaining an exhibit in New York City.

Can you share us your plans regarding your future exhibit in Fresno?

My next show in Fresno will be in January at city hall. I have not determined yet what will be my focus. Usually, I know the topic of the exhibit much more in advance. However, I was just invited.

In addition, I am in talks with a local organization which may provide the models. I'm not at liberty to discuss this yet, however. I have a secondary subject for my exhibit should I not work with the mentioned party. In either case, I will have one month to create the works for the exhibit.

Where do you see yourself and your artwork 10 years from now?

This is a great question. I consider the soul of my art to be the collection of drawings that convey a social, political or spiritual message. "Wetback" is a good example, which in short, included portraits and related the positive accounts of Mexican immigrants who initially came here without authorization, but now are of legal status and are thriving members of our communities.

To me, exhibits like these are at the top of the hierarchy of art. So, ten years from now I see myself having produced a significant body of work that communicates insightful thoughtful accounts about the human condition. I want to continue to integrate technology with my work as well. I have a few plans that I’m developing

Marcos has a blog where he features his artwork. There you will see his drawings and the story behind each of his featured artwork. For those who wish to see more and know more about Marcos his a local exhibit which is scheduled at January in Fresno City Hall. Reception is held on ArtHop night, which is on January 6, 2011 at 5pm-8pm. Next on his schedule will be a group exhibit at Mills Pond House Gallery (NYC) in August. Harlem Beautiful, Marcos’ solo exhibit will be on October 2011 at Rio Gallery II, NYC.

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Artist in Focus: Craig Mendez

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:01:00 GMT

Craig Mendez is a freelance photographer in Fresno. He started taking interest in photography when he was in high school, but left it behind him for 30 years. He then continued his pursuit in photography, but it wasn’t until 10 years ago that he realized he has a passion for taking pictures as well as a talent for creating something extraordinary with just one shot. Craig still has a connection with old-school photography, mostly using a film camera to capture shots. Negatives are scanned and processed in a computer for editing, using a Photoshop software that was introduced to him by his son. Amazingly enough, his technical know-how in editing pictures is self-taught.

What do you do when you are not creating your works of art?

Looking into selling my Art through different avenues.

How did you get started as an artist?

I have always enjoyed making and creating things if not with my photography I make items with wood and also metal. I enjoy making items out of discarded materials.

What was your big break as a photographer?

Having my work shown in Galleries, Art Shows and Arthops.

What is your common subject of interest when you take photographs?

Landscapes, unposed portraits, events, low light.

What is it about artists in the Blues scene that inspire you to take shot after shot after shot?

Capturing the emotion of the muscians.

How much time do you dedicate when you edit a photo?

Depends on the photo, the time varies on what I am doing to it.

How do you see yourself and your art 10 years from now?

Recognized by the Art community and overall contribution to the Art itself.

You can see Craig’s photos at an upcoming event in Circle Art Gallery located in 1653 N Schooner Ste.113, Madera, California. Show is held on November 20th, 2010 at 10am-4pm. Other arts can also be seen in his FresnoArts Profile.

Artist In Focus: Danny Ayers

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 08:21:00 GMT

Danny Ayers has 20 years of professional photography up his sleeve, with the last 10 years concentrated on taking concert pictures. As a much-sought-after concert photographer, he’s taken award-winning photographs of famous artists such as Madonna, Mick Jagger, Britney Spears, Elton John, Justin Timberlake, Van Halen, and many others.

I have always wondered what it’s like to take pictures of artists as they perform; all that adrenalin from the screaming fans and the rush that you get from seeing artists do their stuff on stage. Lucky for me, Danny became a member of FresnoArts.net and he gave me the opportunity to have a sneak peak on what goes on behind the camera.

Note: This is the short version of Danny’s amazing interview. If you are interested in knowing more about Danny as I was, visit this link.

Please tell us something about yourself.

I’m originally from the Bay Area but I arrived in Fresno in 1989 to further a bowling career as a professional. I turned pro as a Professional Bowler and became a member of the PBA in 1991.

I bowled in a few professional tournaments until a wrist injury stopped my professional career. Although my professional career ended I’m still a league bowler and enjoy watching the tour on Sunday mornings each week.

What do you do when you are not taking or processing photos?

There’s not a lot that I do that doesn’t involve some sort of photography. I’m working on a couple of photo projects currently that have been taking a lot of my free time.

How did you get started as a photographer?

[click here for full story]

I’m a passionate person and as a former athlete, I think all athletes are passionate people. I’ve been into photography my entire life but my love for athletics was first and everything else a distance second until my bowling career ended.

I took up photography once again in the early nineties when I started traveling as a professional bowler. I really enjoyed it and photography started to replace the passion I had for athletics. I didn’t really look to it as a career but it just seemed that I fell into it. I began college at Fresno State University and a friend encouraged me to apply for a photography job with the college campus newspaper.

How was life like when you were just a starting photographer?

My very first assignment was a student union meeting and my job was to take photos of some of the speakers. These images were to run in the paper in the next edition of the college paper which was the very next morning. I had lived in darkrooms as a youth so the aspect of developing the film, processing the film—creating photographs from the magic of agitating a plastic pan were not daunting to me.

What frightened me was using computers to scan, upload photos to email addresses and just navigating myself through a computer. I had no clue what I was doing and it took hours to get one simple image over to the right source for printing.

I laugh nowadays because it seems so simple. Those were the early days of what is the norm today when it comes to photography and computers. As time passed and I aggressively pursued photography as a new career, I began to take on new photographic challenges.

What made you center your passion for photography on taking concert pictures?

People started asking me if I could photograph their wedding, a sporting event, a quinceanera, etc. My time in photography began to be too mundane and my patience started to wear a little thin with the scope of what I was doing photographically. At that point in my photo career I had photographed everything I wanted to and I felt there was just nowhere else to go in photography.

I was in line at a grocery store and overheard two gentlemen talking about a local music gig that they were doing that weekend. I started to talk to them about my photography and asked them if they had any photos of them singing. They said no. I offered my photographic services for that Saturday night and as they say, the rest is history.

What major concerts have you taken pictures of?

[click here for full story]

I can name some of the memorable ones. I’ve photographed, at best guesstimate, at least 1,000 concerts and events in my career. Some memorable concerts I’ve covered have been KISS, Britney Spears, Dolly Parton, Cher, Elton John, Rod Stewart, Gwen Stefani, Taylor Dayne and, of course, Madonna.

What difficulties do you often encounter when you take concert pictures?

[click here for full story]

To be honest there are not a lot of encounters when I’m taking photos at concerts. Everything is extremely regimented and you’re escorted wherever you go. Once the concert starts they cut you lose in a confined area where you must take your photographs.

The only two problems that a concert photographer encounters are the audience and maybe the performers themselves. Depending on where they allow you to photograph, people may get in the way; or if you’re shooting from the sound board, people’s heads or bodies can get in the way making it necessary to change the nature of the image.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t say that there is trial and error with everything you do. Problems will always present themselves. Life is about repetitive movements or motions, and just by doing it many times you will become better at it by default.

The difference here is whether you possess the skills to be better than most. My advice is to expect the worse and hope for the best.

What preparations did you make for your award-winning-shots?

This might sound mellow-dramatic and its very cliché, but every picture must tell a story. It’s as simple as that. For me I try and take that to the next level and with every picture I take, “can I win the Pulitzer?” I never, ever take photos for me, just me, but always for the viewer, the audience.

I try and compose, conceptualize each and every shot…in terms of concert photography it’s difficult to accomplish this since by the very nature of it, it happens at such a fast rate of speed. First of all you have to be confident that your settings in your camera are correct for a concert environment. Once you know this and you’re comfortable with that, everything should prepare you for an award-winning photographic art piece.

Concentrating in a concert can be hard. How do you psych yourself in order to get that perfect shot amidst the chaotic, screaming fans and the fabulous artistic performance of famous artists?

[click here for full story]

Concentrating in a concert environment is not really as hard as you think. I’d rather photograph a concert than a football game or an event that utilizes a very large playing field. You have to look at your subjects or the players that you have to photographically document.

First of all, it might be difficult to photograph a group like the Rolling Stones or KISS because of the simple fact that each individual person is famous in his own right. Acts with solo artists like Shania Twain, Dolly Parton, George Strait, Alan Jackson, Britney Spears or even Madonna don’t present these problems to concert photographers.

Covering a lot of athletic events in my career, football is the most challenging because first, you’ve got a lot of real estate to cover. Then you’ve got 4, 5, 6 or maybe 7 different players who all can be superstars. It’s been said that if you can become a good sports photographer the rest is a bit easier. Having started mainly as a sports photographer, I think that statement bares some merit of truth.

You can’t do anything about the audience or the noise, but I can control what I think the performer will do on stage. One such event involved Gwen Stefani of No Doubt. I was in the “Pit” [where] you are as close to the performer without actually being on stage with them.

During Gwen Stefani’s first song, Gwen jumped off the stage onto one of her very large speakers that was placed within the pit and her shoe brushed the side of my face. I wasn’t hurt but this is one of the unforeseen actions that can take place. I’m sure it was generated from adrenalin or the rush of the crowd.

Also, I’m always very nervous before a concert event. I think it’s the “not knowing” that makes us nervous about our performances. I never want to go into an event without being a little nervous about my pending performance. The day that it becomes too routine is the day I will leave the arena.

What changes did you have to go through in order to become the Danny Ayers that you are now?

I’m dealing with some health issues. I had neck fusion surgery within the last year that was unsuccessful and the long delays in treatment and dealing with a lot of entities pertaining to hospitals and doctors and lawyers have presented a whole new set of challenges that I’ve never faced.

You cannot change what has already happened; certain events in one’s life happen for a reason. You just have to make peace with those events. It’s just that simple. I recently lost my bowling mentor and the one person who has meant the world to me. His loss has taken a toll on me and I live to one day see him again.

He taught me the value of living every day to the fullest; he taught me patience. I know he’s looking down at me and saying dobar djecak which means “good boy” in Croatian.

You have a photography show called In the Round set for December 2nd at the Fresno City Hall. Can you give us a teaser on what photos to expect and other events happening during the show?

Please, you can’t expect me to give away all of my secrets, can you? I’m kidding. The majority of the show will focus on my concert photography but I may add a few surprises that your readers of this article will just have to show up to view in person.

You know Christmas is just around the corner; maybe your readers can get an early Christmas surprise by viewing one or two of my special photographic pieces. I did officially invite Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to the event but he may be packing up his office and heading back to LA to start up his movie career once again.

Outside of that, food, fun, talking about photography, maybe music, and we’ll also have Twin Pomegranate Wine Company pouring wine that evening.

How were you able to take photos of Ground Zero in NY?

[click here to see the full story]

Well, my trip to New York City just after the events of 9/11 were some of the most gratifying and gut-wrenching experiences in my entire life and photo career. Nothing compares to those short 4 days that I spent in New York.

It’s a very long story but I will paraphrase my trip to and from. I was coming home from a photo job in Stockton, California, when I heard on the radio about the Twin Light Towers that were to honor the souls lost on September 11, 2001. I’ve had such a strong feeling of how I needed to get to New York by any means necessary.

With little funds to make the trip there and back I turned to business people I knew who could sponsor my trip. [and] I was able to get the necessary funds within 3 days. Of course my first thought after getting off the plane was, “What in the heck have I just done?”

The following morning I woke to beautiful blue skies to start my assignment. As day transitioned into night, the faint sight of the Twin Light Memorial presented itself. It was truly beautiful and with that I turned my attention to my camera and what led me to this remarkable city.

The following day I made my way over to the platform of Ground Zero. The mood was very sad; it was extraordinarily quiet in the middle of Manhattan and a city that occupies over 8 million people. This is what struck me initially.

She took an interest in what I was doing and told me to wait a minute that she needed to speak to her sergeant. When she returned, she said she wanted to take me to a location where I could get the images I needed.

I was not told by this officer where she was taking me until we got into the elevators. Then she explained that she was taking me to a room reserved strictly for family members of all those who were lost in the attacks.

When the elevator stopped and we entered the room, no one else was there. “Have at it,” was all she said. Twenty minutes into it the officer informed me they were in the middle of pulling out a body.

I was shocked and dismayed by this news. I really hadn’t felt an enormous amount of emotions until that moment. I left a piece of my heart in that room, and I’ve never been the same.

What inspirational message can you give to artists, both beginners and veterans in their crafts?

Respect your craft, respect the men and women who came before us. If you know what you want and you’re good at it, be aggressive in attaining your dreams. I hate the phrase, “fake it until you make it.” Never fake anything in life; be true to yourself and the craft you decide on. If you’re good at photography or anything else in life, you’ll never have to fake anything. Love and be passionate at what you do, everything will take care of itself.

I also want to thank Donna and Victor for giving me the time to talk about myself and the work I do. A big thanks to Maria Franco, Cindy Dunn and Angela at Fresno Arts Council in believing in me and giving me the opportunity to show at the Fresno City Hall.

Danny Ayers

Danny has several photos uploaded in his FresnoArts.net profile. However, I still believe that pictures are warmer and more personal when in print, so I recommend that you attend Danny’s show in order to feel the energy shared by both photographer and artist.

"There is nothing more exciting to a photographer than photographing a live concert,” - Danny Ayers

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Artist in Focus: Stephanie Allison

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 23:06:00 GMT

Stephanie Allison is an interesting local artist here in Fresno, mainly because her paintings and creations have a certain feel of historical fashion. If you look closely at her work, all females featured in her art are created with styles that mark a certain era in the history and world of fashion. Another amazing thing about her art is the detail that she puts in every stroke of her brush. The features are so striking; you will always be drawn to the face of each character, with each and every one of them sharing similar traits yet still bear that distinct characteristic that will certainly identify one from the other. What I find striking about Stephanie is her ability to dedicate such detail to every piece of her creations while balancing her time between working and studying. She’s currently studying at Fresno City College and plans to transfer to Fresno State in order to get her credentials for teaching art.

Please tell us something about yourself.

I'm passionate about art and learning new things. I feel that art is something that we must always keep in our schools. I love that I can use art to raise awareness for causes, and I love that art can bring people together in a community.

What do you usually do when you are not concentrating on your creativity?

If I'm not creating something, then I'm most likely at work. I'm a secretary during the week and I also go to Fresno City College. Whenever I get the chance though, I love to be outdoors and with family & friends.

How did you get started as an artist?

I got bit by the artist bug at a young age. My parents were ceramic artists, my great aunt was a watercolor painter and my aunt, uncle & cousins create amazing pieces of pottery as well. Being around art is something that has always been normal to me. If I’m not around art or creating art at least every couple of days then I feel ab-normal.

I made pottery with the family business for years, [and] then started taking painting classes in middle & high school where I really fell in love with acrylics. I started painting more seriously after moving to Fresno 5 years ago when I saw that there was a booming artist community that I could be a part of.

What is your art specialty?

I am a painter...paint runs through my veins! Even when I was making ceramics, my favorite part was to paint the piece after the bisque firing. However, painting on canvas and paper is such a rewarding journey for me. It's the feeling you get after knowing that you've created this visual design that was once a mere image in your brain onto a blank white canvas for all to see.

How would you describe your art?

It's always hard for me to describe it. Most of my paintings don't have an incredible deep meaning to them. I create art to keep me sane...get my daydreams out on paper. My mind is constantly running on full speed, it’s often hard for me to sort out my thoughts about anything until I can sit down and paint. If people like my art then great, if they don't that's ok too!

Who is your inspiration for the female subjects in your paintings?

Sometimes I have an idea of an exact person in my head but it almost never ends up looking like that, so I just let her take shape. Perhaps the painting wants to be who it wants to be. The first thing I do is sketch out my idea onto the canvas or paper. Usually I have no color palette in mind until my brush searches for the right one.

The most enjoyable part of the painting for me is to create her "style". The make-up, clothes, hair, etc... It is so exciting for me to watch her come to life. When I was young I would draw Mother Nature girls all the time. I still have some of those old paintings.

You are known to contribute to the local community of Fresno through your arts. Can you share us several instances where you used your art to help several causes in Fresno?

I feel like giving my art is the best way for me to raise awareness and funds for causes in Fresno and I do this whenever I get the chance. Besides donating to The Pink Show, I recently donated a painting to the United By Art Show at Gorgon Isle Gallery, which benefited Autism research. Last year I had donated some paintings to an SPCA benefit art show. I've also donated to several school and church silent auction fundraisers.

You donated a truly wonderful artwork for an event in the Tower Theater. Can you describe your artwork and your inspiration for creating it?

The painting was going to be auctioned at The Pink Show Benefit Concert as well as used for some promotional purposes. I knew it had to be eye-catching and get the point across to the viewers. After several discussions with Cynthia Manuszak, the creator of The Pink Show...I had a general idea of what It would look like.

I wanted to incorporate the Tower Theatre as well as a group of women who could represent us all. Some who appear to be going through cancer treatments, some who have recovered and some who may be a family member affected by cancer. It was a challenging painting for me, but I was so happy with the finished product.

What made you decide to donate it for auction?

I really wanted to donate to the Me-One Foundation; it is such a worthy cause. I did not have much money to give, so instead I gave my time and my art which helped to raise $200.

Where do you see yourself and your artwork 10 years from now?

I see myself having my credentials and masters to teach art in college, also hopefully HAVE a job teaching painting. I hope to have a solo show somewhere in San Francisco or Los Angeles. I can't wait to see what lies ahead!

As of now, she’s not taking on any shows; she’s focusing on creating portraits of 100 girls for her 2010 project, which will be displayed at Studio 74 along with artworks of Rattananan Moerdyk. The opening reception will be ArtHop June 2, 2011. Stephanie’s really looking forward to it, and she’s inviting you to come along and have some fun with her.

You can also see some of her artworks as well as interact with her in the following websites:

FresnoArts.net
Redbubble.com

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Danny Ayers, Full and Unedited Interview

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 23:15:00 GMT

Here's the unedited version of Danny Ayers' interview. In this version, you can get the full details on how he started, his unforgettable moments as a photographer, and his Ground Zero experience.

Please tell us something about yourself?

I’m originally from the Bay Area but I arrived in Fresno in 1989 to further a bowling career as a professional. I turned pro as a Professional Bowler and became a member of the PBA in 1991.

What do you do when you are not taking or processing photos?

There’s not a lot that I do that doesn’t involve some sort of photography. I’m working on a couple of photo projects currently that have been taking a lot of my free time.

How did you get started as a photographer?

I took up photography once again in the early nineties when I started traveling as a professional bowler. I wanted to document my travels photographically and at some point be able to look back on my career and travels. I forgot how much I missed photography and it seemed I took photographs of everything I did.

I really enjoyed it and photography started to replace the passion I had for athletics. I didn’t really look to it as a career but it just seemed that I fell into it. I began college at Fresno State University and a friend encouraged me to apply for a photography job with the college campus newspaper.

I’d taken many photography classes over the course of my schooling, including high school, but I didn’t expect to get hired. I thought that the job would be reserved for students majoring in photography or mass communication/journalism. I met with the manager of the campus paper and he wanted to see my portfolio.

At that time I didn’t think I knew what a portfolio was or even of how to construct one. This was way before the Internet was part of our culture so I had to ask people within the mass communications department about how to put together a professional portfolio.

With the limited knowledge, I winged it. I bought a small attaché case, put some photos in it and returned the next day to present it. I couldn’t even guess what the manager was thinking but he offered me the job!

How was your life like when you were just a starting photographer

What frightened me was using computers to scan, upload photos to email addresses and just navigating myself through a computer. Even in the early days of computers, colleges and universities recognized the importance of computers, and the college campus paper was strictly computerized when it came to transferring any types of photos.

I had to figure out this new system very quickly or be left behind and lose the job. This particular photograph needed to be sent to an email address in order for it to get to the printer for publishing the next morning. I had no clue what I was doing and it took hours to get one simple image over to the right source for printing. I laugh nowadays because it seems so simple. Those were the early days of what is the norm today when it comes to photography and computers. As time passed and I aggressively pursued photography as a new career, I began to take on new photographic challenges.

What made you center your passion for photography on taking concert pictures?

What major concerts have you taken pictures of?

I know what most people would say to this question and that is, “there are so many I just can’t name them all.” But the reality is, this is what I’m saying. There are just so many that I really can’t remember them all. I can name some of the memorable ones. I’ve photographed, at best guesstimate, at least 1,000 concerts and events in my career. Some memorable concerts I’ve covered have been KISS, Britney Spears, Dolly Parton, Cher, Elton John, Rod Stewart, Gwen Stefani, Taylor Dayne and, of course, Madonna.

One memorable moment that I was a part of was neither the most pleasant nor photo related. This moment has to do with the singing of the National Anthem. Whenever you’re at an athletic event they will always play or have someone sing the National Anthem and it’s one of my favorite parts of the event even outside of the event itself.

I was photographing a local volleyball game and they announced the singing of the National Anthem. The gentleman stood at the mike and began singing and half way through it he forgot the words to the song. I along with everyone else felt so incredibly bad for this man that the entire audience helped him finish the song.

Afterwards, he remarked that he would never sing this song in public again. That was the last time I ever saw him. That made a memorable moment for me for the wrong reasons.

What difficulties do you often encounter when you take concert pictures?

With regards to the performers, it’s very hit and miss and almost a cat-and-mouse type of game. I’d very much rather be photographing a George Strait concert than Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones. Mick is all over the place and even at his advanced age the man can still get around a concert stage.

Often photographers are chasing the performers to get the shots they need, and with a limited amount of time this can be very challenging. Outside of those two obstacles things should go relatively smooth for most concert photographers. I’d be remiss if I didn’t say that there is trial and error with everything you do. Problems will always present themselves. I have fun with what I do but I’m always conscious that I’m a professional concert photography and I have to project that whether it be in my work or personally.

Life is about repetitive movements or motions, and just by doing it many times you will become better at it by default. The difference here is whether you possess the skills to be better than most. My advice is to expect the worse and hope for the best.

What preparations did you make for your award-winning-shots?

I have a preconceived notion that the next image I photograph will be in someone’s home, printed in a magazine or book, hanging in a gallery or be held in an auction house ready for the highest bidder. Yes, of course I started out taking photos of everything—you must do that. You’ve got to see if you’ve got a talent for photography or even an eye for it.

All photographers must do this. You must start somewhere but then comes knowledge, the knowledge of your chosen profession. The knowledge of what to do and along with that, how you want your work portrayed. Some photographers, not all, don’t take the necessary time to value their work through knowledge, in other words they don’t respect their own work so how can they respect others.

I think you must study the forefathers, the pioneers, the ones who opened the door for people, for photographers, for concert photographers like myself. I feel this is very important and we don’t teach that to young aspiring photographers today. When another person can be emotionally moved by your work, work you’ve created, work that your eyes have laid witness to, it should be a powerful, earth-shattering experience. It is for me.

This is the passion I need to see that inspires me. There is more power in art; it creates more emotions than anything that I think man has created. When you possess that skill, you can make an impact on lives. Photography is an art. Most people think an artist is a painter, sculptor, or a writer, but most people don’t label a photographer an artist. I would gladly wear that label.

Back to the question: I try and compose, conceptualize each and every shot…in terms of concert photography it’s difficult to accomplish this since by the very nature of it, it happens at such a fast rate of speed. First of all you have to be confident that your settings in your camera are correct for a concert environment. Once you know this and you’re comfortable with that, everything should prepare you for an award-winning photographic art piece.

Concentrating in a concert can be hard. How do you psych yourself in order to get that perfect shot amidst the chaotic, screaming fans and the fabulous artistic performance of famous artists?

Covering a lot of athletic events in my career, football is the most challenging because first, you’ve got a lot of real estate to cover. Then you’ve got 4, 5, 6 or maybe 7 different players who all can be superstars. I can only imagine what it was like to photograph the 49ers in the eighties.

There were 4 or 5 superstars on that team, I mean legitimate, superstars on the roster, and everyone needed to be photographed each and every game. Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, Dwight Clark, Roger Craig and many others not to mention the coach, the late great Bill Walsh!

This is just one example of a loaded team where each athlete needed to be photographed. Even locally, teams such as Fresno State normally have 3 or 4 standouts. Junior colleges have their standouts and of course high schools are now producing outstanding athletes.

It’s been said that if you can become a good sports photographer the rest is a bit easier. Having started mainly as a sports photographer, I think that statement bares some merit of truth. Going into a concert and not knowing much about the artist is not smart. I will do as much research on the artist as I can to get to best images.

Fortunately for me I do main event shows, arena shows where there is a lot of film on them for me to gravitate to, thanks to YouTube. I study to see if they are stationary performers, such as Sarah McLachlan, or the polar opposite, like Steven Tyler of Aerosmith who is all over the stage and you have to be in a near jog to catch him.

You study to see if they are right or left handed. This will give you an understanding of which hand they will hold the mic in. I study so I don’t have to worry about all of the other nonsense at show time. You can’t do anything about the audience or the noise, but I can control what I think the performer will do on stage.

One such event involved Gwen Stefani of No Doubt. I was in the “Pit.” The pit is in between the front row and the stage. It’s prime real estate where all concert photographers love to be. You are as close to the performer without actually being on stage with them.

I think about it all day and it doesn’t leave me until the last frame is shot. I’ve heard that musicians and athletes go through the same thing. It doesn’t matter how good you are, you still get nervous before a performance. I also know as a former athlete myself that I would get very nervous before an athletic event.

I think it’s the “not knowing” that makes us nervous about our performances. I never want to go into an event without being a little nervous about my pending performance. The day that it becomes too routine is the day I will leave the arena.

What changes did you have to go through in order to become the Danny Ayers that you are now?

He taught me the value of living every day to the fullest; he taught me patience. I know he’s looking down at me and saying dobar djecak which means good boy in Croatian.

You have a photography show called In the Round set for December 2nd at the Fresno City Hall. Can you give us a teaser on what photos to expect and other events happening during the show?

Outside of that, food, fun, talking about photography, maybe music, and we’ll also have Twin Pomegranate Wine Company pouring wine that evening.

How were you able to take photos of Ground Zero in NY?

I was on my way back from New York City after I took my photos when I started to reflect on those days, and I came away with this: I left California a Californian, but when I left New York I left a little piece of my heart in that city. I did not go to New York for a visit, or a vacation; I was a photographic reporter working on capturing history. New York changed my life. I will never see things quite the same as I did in those 4 days.

With little funds to make the trip there and back I turned to business people I knew who could sponsor my trip. In return, they would get one of my Twin Light photos. I was able to get the necessary funds within 3 days. I booked my trip on a Saturday and landed in New York City on Monday afternoon. Of course my first thoughts after getting off the plane were, what in the heck have I just done?

I began my journey by asking strangers how to navigate myself to my hotel which was near Grand Central Station. I dropped off my camera and personal items at the hotel and made my way into the big city. It was late and I remember that New York was experiencing a torrential down pour.

I thought to myself that this is great, I’m in New York on a photographic assignment, and it can’t rain any harder than it is now. The following morning I woke to beautiful blue skies to start my assignment.

My modes of transportation were walking, cabs, the subway, and ferries. I ferried myself across the Hudson River where I began to photograph the skyline of New York City.

As day transitioned into night, the faint sight of the Twin Light Memorial presented itself. It was truly beautiful and with that I turned my attention to my camera and what led me to this remarkable city. The lights over New York City began at 8pm and were extinguished at 11pm each night for the next 30 days.

I didn’t have a lot of time but I got the images I needed and was pleased how this portion of the trip turned out. The following day I made my way over to the platform of Ground Zero.

The mood was very sad; it was extraordinarily quiet in the middle of Manhattan and a city that occupies over 8 million people. This is what struck me initially. On the platform, my assumption was that I would be able to see into the pit. But all I could see were the tops of cranes which were used to excavate the rubble that once were the enormous Twin Towers.

I wasn’t unhappy at not seeing into the pit simply because this wasn’t the reason I was in New York City. And besides, I had already taken the images I needed to take. Once leaving the platform I began to walk the perimeter of the 16-acre site that once housed the 110-story Twin Towers and several other buildings that were damaged or destroyed on that horrible day in American history.

As I made my way near one of the corners of the 16 acres, a female New York City police officer inquired the reason I had so much equipment with me, and I told her the story of why I was in New York City. She took an interest in what I was doing and told me to wait a minute that she needed to speak to her sergeant.

When she returned, she said she wanted to take me to a location where I could get the images I needed. She escorted me to a building adjacent to where the Twin Towers once stood. I was not told by this officer where she was taking me until we got into the elevators.

Then she explained that she was taking me to a room reserved strictly for family members of all those who were lost in the attacks. She said simply that if anybody was in the room to respect their privacy and just take a few images. When the elevator stopped and we entered the room, no one else was there. “Have at it,” was all she said.

I stayed in that room for 2 hours taking hundreds of images with every medium imaginable. Twenty minutes into it the officer informed me they were in the middle of pulling out a body. I was shocked and dismayed by this news. I really hadn’t felt an enormous amount of emotions until that moment. I left a piece of my heart in that room, and I’ve never been the same.

What inspirational message can you give to artists, both beginners and veterans in their crafts?

Respect your craft, respect the men and women who came before us. If you know what you want and you’re good at it, be aggressive in attaining your dreams.

I hate the phrase, “fake it until you make it.” Never fake anything in life; be true to yourself and the craft you decide on. If you’re good at photography or anything else in life, you’ll never have to fake anything. Love and be passionate at what you do, everything will take care of itself.

Danny Ayers

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Artist in Focus: Elaine Callahan

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 23:05:00 GMT

Elaine Callahan is another inspiring artist that you will see in FresnoArts.net. Working mostly with acrylics, each stroke of her brush makes all of her subjects come alive on canvas.

Please tell us something about yourself

I am a self taught artist, although I have taken some classes here and there. I have drawn and painted ever since I can remember, but I didn't get serious about my art until three years ago after my mother had passed as I was taking care of her a good deal of the time and working as well. Since then I have my own studio where I paint three days a week and it is great!

What is your art specialty?

My specialty at the moment is abstract expressionism; although when I want to relax, I paint realism.

How did you start out as an artist?

I started out as an artist as a child. When I had time on my hands I would draw and paint.

What do you do when you are not enclosed I your studio

When I am not painting, I continue to work with children with disabilities as a nurse in the Fresno County Office of Education. Some of the children are medically fragile and as a nurse I help to develop the medical aspects of their educational plan called an IEP. I also help with their care at school. The other children I work with have an emotional disability, so I work with the teacher, the school psychologist and the parents to help make their educational experience successful.

I like the way you manage to capture every little detail of the flowers in your paining. How were you able to capture their essence and make them seem so alive on canvas?

How do I capture the inner life of the flower? I absolutely love every detail in a flower, plant or a landscape. It is as though I reach into the soul of the flower to capture its essence.

You have a painting of a woman in a naked pose tagged as Annette. Can you tell us more about this?

The naked woman I have painted is my daughter Annette. I also see the light of her soul coming through her eyes, just like the flowers. My daughter actually asked me to paint that picture and when I asked her if it was ok to put it on my website, she said "sure". I think that she enjoys her femininity and is proud of how she looks and is not shy about my sharing it with others. She has the painting displayed in her home.

You also have several abstract paintings. Can you describe what you intend to portray in those paintings?

For me abstract painting is a visual picnic. You can look and taste what you like. It is a visual feast. Enjoy the colors, the flow and the rhythm of the painting. View the painting as a visual adventure and sees where it takes you.

How do you look for inspiration when it comes to creating your art?

I look for inspiration for my work in the everyday world. It could be a flower or a bunch of radishes or a photograph with wonderful patterns and colors. I sometimes simply assemble the colors I want to use, make some sweeping gestures and let it take me where it wants to go.

Where do you see yourself and your art 10 years from now?

In ten years, God willing, I will still be painting, but perhaps have grown into my painting and developed greater depth and intrigue. I would also hope to be showing my paintings to a wider audience.

You can view Elaine’s artworks in Artwanted.com/elainecallahan and at elainecallahan.smugmug.com, and at FresnoArts. Do note that these are the only websites that feature the works of Elaine.

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Artist in Focus: Martin Nunez

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 13:16:00 GMT

Martin Nunez is a landscape and nature photographer who is able to capture spectacular photos because of his boundless passion for photography. Each shot of his camera is done with amazing precision because of his dedication in producing the best in his work. Martin firmly believes that investing powerful emotion while creating an artwork can and will result to a piece that will capture an audience and produce a feeling that will make his artwork unforgettable.

Martin is a proud father of three fabulous sons, and a husband to a beautiful wife. He balances work as a real estate agent, contractor, and a professional photographer – all of which he loves and performs with passion. Although his job can give him flexibility to move from one place to another, he prefers to live in Clovis. Unlike any other areas, Martin believes that Central California Valley has a lot to offer him when it comes to art. He said, “Having the Sierra Nevada as our backyard is for me and for every artists a desire and enjoyment for years to come.”

How did you get started as an artist?

Since I was young I always liked to be out doors, and be in contact with nature. Years ago I only had in my hand a small 35mm camera, then I put my hands in a digital point and shoot camera. Now, with my Nikon D-300 SLR Digital camera, things are different and better. “ART” is part of me (m-ART-in) and is going to be here with me until the day I die. As you can see, I started as an artist because of nature has lots of things to offer, and I wanted to share this to the world.

What made you choose photography over several types of artistic creations?

Every artistic creation is beautiful, and photography for me is a way to get to know places explore them and basically be out doors. Is for me a pleasure to be able to capture nature’s beauty and splendor. I love to feel the wind flowing by me, see the wild life, see the sun rise, see the sun set, be with nature! In addition, I like this new technology now in days with these fabulous digital cameras that help me bring the best photographs ever.

Taking pictures of landscapes and other nature subjects can be tough. What made you choose this area as your subject for photography?

For one thing, in nature there is abundance of beautiful things to photograph and share, and by doing this keeps me in shape, healthy and alive. I love the fact that there is a strong connection in all of us with nature. Also, I consider my self as a tranquil person, and by doing this I can wait for the right moment to capture the best shoot ever. As a result, the final product which is the perfect picture can be appreciate not only by me, but by every body else.

What are the difficulties that you face when you look for that absolutely perfect shot?

There are many of them; often, the weather play tricks on you one moment can be shining and the next can be raining. Seldom, I found my self in the situation where I see a bear, rattlesnake and deer and of course I like to keep my distance. There are times where I have to go and look for the perfect shot for so many hours and ups and downs, but in the end “it is much rewarded”.

To summarize, no matter the difficulties I face out there; take a moment to think about all that nature gives to you every single day so that you can live. And yet nature never asks for anything in return. That is true giving.

How do you go around them?

I prepare my self with maps, the internet radio and any other source of information from whatever I can put my hands on. Talk to rangers from the specific national park or region where I am. By doing this will help me to do things better and my trip can be more placid and enjoyable.

Do you process your photos using a photo editor?

Yes, Adobe Photoshop as you may know, is a fantastic tool to enhanced and bring the best of the best for my photography.

What goes through your mind as you are processing your photos?

Excitement, profound happiness and if my image move you emotionally then I am happy!

What message do you wish to give to artists who wish to follow your craft?

My message is simple; find what is it that you love the most, and ones you have endowed, do it right, do it with love, do it with PASSION!

How do you see yourself and your art 10 years from now?

When you find your purpose, it is like your heart has been set alight with passion. You know it absolutely, without any doubt. I see my self in 10 years from now as a human being with more knowledge, more experience, and more things to share.

One of them is my “ART” of photography because the whole idea is to reach the summit, and what more satisfaction would embrace me if I accomplish my dream along with the people I love the most; my beautiful wife Yesenia and my three fabulous sons; Cristian, Ismael and Samuel Nunez.

Martin has all his breath-taking nature and landscape photography displayed at the following areas:

Academy of Classical Music & Art, Fresno CA
All Things Fresno Galery, Fresno, CA.
Madera County Arts Council & Circle Gallery Madera, CA
The Art Stand Gallery Sanger, CA.

If you wish to know him more, You are free to talk with him at FresnoArts.Net and he will be more than willing to share some insights about his passion for immortalizing a great moment in time with nature.

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Artist in Focus: Johnny Otilano

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 02:34:00 GMT

Johnny Otilano is a self-taught artist born in the Philippines, a country rich in culture and history. He dreamed about becoming a soldier as a kid to help defend his country, but his interest changed when he started to dabble with art using the 4 walls of his home. With his artistic blood awakened, he then channeled his energy and passion for his country through arts with the use of a paintbrush filled with bold, striking colors. He’s gained a lot of recognition as an artist for his ability to conjure great emotions and portray a story behind each creation. As a confirmed international artist living in Fresno, California, Johnny still carries that passion with more or less 40 artworks carrying his distinct style and insignia.

Can you tell us something about yourself?

I'm a self-taught artist born in the Philippines. I graduated from Feati University with a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts, major in Advertising Design. In 1989, I made my first trip to the U. S. at the invitation of the Philippine Arts Festival in Los Angeles. I was known for my portrait commissions and landscape paintings.

I developed my own style with influences of masters and recent artists. The distinct and personal style and technique that I have incorporated in my pieces are spreading paint on raw plywood, and gluing and nailing found objects like soda can pull tabs, chains, old keys and gun shells.

I was fortunate to be recognized after my painting "Market Place" won Second Place and received the highest winning bid in an art contest sponsored by KVPT Channel 18 for their 20th Great Annual Art Auction and Art Competition in 1997.

What do you do when you are not busy with your artistic creations?

Well, I loved gardening and woodworking, spending time with my wife and kids, playing with my guitar and composing music.

How would you describe your life when you were just starting as an artist?

Starting as an artist in the Philippines during my time was difficult. I had to earn my own money to support my educations and to buy my art materials. And that's how I learned how to use found objects and left-over house paints to use in my paintings, I used flour sacks as my canvas or an old plywood board. One of the ways that I earned money was through working as a freelance news photographer and that I saw the bondage and suffering of my people from our corrupt government.

How does it compare to your life now?

My life now as an artist is much easier than before. But even though I can buy expensive materials now like oil paint and canvas, I still use found objects and left-over house paints, discarded lumber or old plywood. I can afford to have my own website now which where I mostly show my artwork, I can paint what I want and do what I please as an artist and I felt so free expressing what I feel through my paintings.

How do you describe your artwork?

My artwork is what they called Social Realism because I usually portray bondage and oppression of the weak in my subject. I use oil paint and mixed-media in each of my piece. I incorporate found objects, stucco and cloth to give a strong textures and symbolism to open the heart and mind of my viewer.

You were awarded the People’s Choice Award in Cynthia’s Pink Show. Can you tell us more about your winning entry and what inspired you to create such a moving piece?

The painting entitled "November 25, 1994" is actually the date when my mother passed away of breast cancer. I glued the picture of my mother and I incorporate my wife's picture carrying my daughter when she was little (my wife was a uterine cancer survivor, and my daughter who I prayed to God not to inherit both health problem later on in her life) then I glued some of my daughter's old pink hair pins, old car keys with pink rings and ribbon, chains & washers, screws and stucco and I spread left over acrylic house paint using a mixing stick from the paint store.

I also glued old postage stamps that I used to use to mail a letter to my mother in the Philippines. I almost missed that submission date I didn't saw the posting not until Friday night and I don't have a ready artwork that has a pink on it. But I am eager to contribute on the show as a tribute to my mother and to give thanks for my wife's survival.

I've wanted to hold an art exhibit to pay tribute to my mother and donate some of the proceeds to a breast cancer organization, but thankfully t was able to create that painting the same morning and made it into the submission 30 minutes before the end time.

The paintings you posted in FresnoArts.net show political and religious symbols and seem to depict bondage, suffering, and torment. What drives you to show such a mix of emotions in your artwork?

A true artist always see what other people doesn't see. We are more sensitive when it comes to the destruction and oppression of humanity. The greed and power of those who are willing to kill just to obtain what they want for their own purposes. The Hypocrisy of religious leader. The killings of people who’s just trying to work for a change. The oppression of small farmers and laborers, corrupt politicians filling up their own pocket and spending government's money while the poor people getting poorer and poorer.

Bankers and Business Millionaires cashing out their millions while people losing their homes and job. These issues are what motivates me to paint with such passion and emotion. That is why you'll see objects in my artwork such as pull tabs and keys symbolizing opening the hearts and minds of humanity to realize what’s going on. Hopefully through my artwork even though I cannot change the world I can make a difference.

Can you say that your passion comes from your love for the Philippines?

Actually, yes. When I first came in United States my goal is to introduce and educate American people about the Philippine Arts and Culture.

In what instances can you say that your art has contributed both for the art industry and the local community of Fresno?

When I started showing my work here in Fresno according to some of the local artist they got influenced by my work. One of them is Nanete Maki-Dearsan (she teaches at Fresno State where she used to invite me to give lectures to her art students). I donated paintings in KVPT Channel 18 for their Annual Auction when Stephanie Buretta is the Manager and to the Poverello House in our silent auction when I was a member of Gallery 25.

Can you share an inspirational message to all artists in Fresno?

I believed that, as an artist and as a human, we all existed here to have a purpose. As an Artist you have to explore a lot and experiment on your work and each time goes by you will be able to discover your own self and what place you stand. No matter what other people say continue what you're doing as long as you're not hurting anyone. Believe in yourself and be passionate in your art. Your art and what you express and everything that comes out of it is your soul, A God given talent, A God given soul.

How do you see yourself and your artwork 10 years from now?

10 years from now my artwork will be traveling around the world, actually right now because of the internet my artwork is already showing globally.

Get to know more about Johnny Otilano by visiting his website, or through FresnoArts.net. You can also see his latest creation along with those of other artists in Cynthia Chapman Manuszak’s Mirror Mirror show, an event that aims to expose the difficulties faced by homeless women.

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Artist in Focus: Bill Redondo

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 22:31:00 GMT

Bill Redondo (a.k.a. Art Zocalo) is a freedom-loving artist and a spiritual director informed in the ways of Judaism, Christ, creation spirituality, as well as Indigenous spirituality. As a space curator, he also has several artistic talents up in his portfolio including poetry, song writing, photography, sculpting, and painting. A man with a few words, Bill has the magic to connect with people and inspire them in FresnoArts.net. Busy man as he was, he took the time to give us a little something about himself.

How I got started in art

Like most people, I started doing art as a kid. Every child is naturally creative, that’s why Picasso aspired to become one. Then in high school I took all the Art classes they offered. In college I majored in art and took a welding class and began to make sculptures. That was back in 1972-1973. Then I got out of art for about 30 years in order to pursue my career which took me to Mexico (10 yrs) as a Christian missionary and then to Fresno (20 yrs) as a pastor.

My specialty

While I enjoy expressing myself through music, song writing, poetry and painting my most pleasing art form is sculpture. These are both abstract and figurative expressions. I usually exhibit my art at Love Song Art Venue which I curate in SE Fresno.

How and where artists get their art exposed

This depends on each artist. Some are happy just adorning the walls of their homes with their art, and this is fine. Many young artists aspire to make a mark, get noticed and attract buyers; these are the ones that show locally and get frustrated because they don’t have people lining up to buy their stuff. Older, more seasoned artists learn to balance their art career with money making careers.

It’s the artists that have a strong business drive to promote and cash in on their art that learn where and how to do so. Usually they position themselves among the right crowd of people in the right locations, or find an agent that who believes they can make a profit off marketing them, or they learn to use mass marketing on the internet to get exposure.

Who’s an artist?

Everybody has a creative side to them which inspires them to action. We use it when we do house chores, engage in our interests and hobbies and when we work at our vocation to make a living! If we did not have this creative action oriented impulse we would not be alive. Therefore everyone is an artist, though most do not consider themselves to be one because their actions are routine.

We usually label a person an artist when they break out of the normal routine and create something unique and original. Their creation can be either something simple and childlike or something that reflects a high level of skill and craftsmanship. Unrefined art used to be looked down upon; however today it doesn’t really matter.

What does is the freedom of expression and originality reflected in the piece of art. And that is all it is, a reflection or past record of a creative moment in someone’s life: A moment when someone broke out of the box of routine. Its creation serves as an invitation to others to do the same! This explains why some people are attracted to some art but not others.

The art that touches the soul and strikes an inner chord draws people to it! Why would anyone buy art unless it did this? Well people do all the time; they buy art because it fits into the design and décor of a room, or because it’s a good investment or because they want to support the school fundraiser. However, buying art because it resonates with ones soul is a much better reason!

Bill has an event called “Art Zocalo & Friends” that will run from October 21, 2010 to November 6, 2010. Details can be found at FresnoArts.net Events

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Artist In Focus: Christina Martinez

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 22:25:00 GMT

Christina Martinez is a beginning artist in Fresno. She once was confined in a corporate environment that is giving her means to pay her bills, but also serve as a cage of some sort for her creativity as an artist. Stable as her finances may be, the job was too regimented, allowing very little room for creative originality if ever at all. A full time job did not give her enough time to have the opportunity to create anything that is even remotely related to arts. As a result, she became unhappy with the way her life is going, something that people in her immediate surroundings have noticed. In order to satisfy her creativity and to appease her artistic soul, Christina was forced to get out from a stable job; a drastic action that she feels she needs to do in order to be free and pursue the life filled with magical colors of the arts.

Please tell us something about yourself.

After years of working in an office or corporate environment, I had found that I had slowly become someone I was not happy with. Others were commenting on how I had changed. I was unhappy with several areas of my life. I was falling apart and no one was really seeing it.

Also, I never had time or the “head space’ to pursue my creative and artistic desires. I was lucky if I created something as simple as a drawing a couple times a year. Most of the time, I would find that whenever I did try to draw, I would end up just staring at the blank page - feeling as empty inside as the paper. I felt like I had nothing left in me.

In July 2008 I did something drastic. I walked away from a good paying full time job. I had never done anything like that before. I usually would leave a job with the typical two week notice, and only when I had the safety net of another job already lined up and confirmed.

I walked away and knew that if I didn’t go for what I wanted now, I never would. The economy was bad. It wasn’t a good time. But I realized it would never be a good time. I wanted different. And if you want different you have to do different. People would think I was crazy. I was having emotional and physical symptoms that were screaming at me to get out. For me, it truly felt like it was a matter of self-preservation.

That summer I started painting, just a couple experimental pieces. I had never really painted; before I had only just drawn things out with pencil, pen, or charcoal, or the occasional oil pastels. Painting was pretty new to me, but I just knew that was where I wanted to go with my art.

This has involved sacrifice. My lifestyle has drastically changed. While looking for work that would allow me the flexibility to work on my art and attend shows, I’ve had to rely on the support and help from certain family and friends who understood how important this was for me, and even some that didn’t really understand but supported me anyways. And had to deal with some very close to me that were not very supportive at all.

I have since gone from being a new painter, to having pieces hung at various ArtHops in town. And I am very excited about future projects I am setting up. This last year in particular has been a huge learning experience for me personally, and artistically. As hard as it has been at times, I know that this is what I need to be doing. And I am just glad I was crazy enough to do it.

What is your art specialty?

I mostly work in acrylic paintings. I have no income coming in, so many of my supports would be donated materials such as canvas, wood, etc. In my quest to find something to paint on, someone had given me some glass panels and I had stumbled upon Reverse Paintings on Glass. I first started painting on glass back in 2008, but did not really jump into it until early this year when I started the “Emotional Skin” series.

What inspired you to pursue arts?

I had always wanted to work in art. But as a child, I was encouraged to pursue more business related classes in school such as typing, keyboarding, etc. And after I got married, it was always the focus to go for the jobs that paid the best, which - let’s face it - unless you were able to go to college, that usually involves some form of cubicle torture.

But it was always there, that longing to be immersed in the colors, shapes, textures, sights, and sounds of the arts. For me, art is all about expression. It is not political, and I am not necessarily trying to send out a message to the masses, or trying to teach a lesson.

My art is about purging, and releasing pent up emotions, or thoughts and feelings that maybe I cannot verbalize for whatever reason. Art is emotional. I just had a difficult time merging the “bottom line” business persona I had to be to pay the bills with the true artist smothering inside me.

I wish I could say it was one thing in particular that inspired me to shed that business costume I had worn for so long and pursue my dream. But in the end, for me, it was a combination of seeing how I had changed through the years in ways I did not like: from physical and health problems I was beginning to have, to relationship issues that were becoming too hard to ignore, to just years of playing a part that was breaking me.

I felt like I was trying to save my life. I just walked out of my full time corporate job and decided that if I didn’t do this for myself now, I never would. I just realized that sometimes waiting for the “right time” means you never take the chance.

And there is a quote that I like to think of that says…

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, Sail away from safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” ~Mark Twain

I just decided there were too many things in this life that I gave up because I didn’t think it was the right time, or I listened to someone else telling me it wasn’t the right time. I didn’t want to regret not doing this.

I noticed from your pictures in Fresno Arts that most of your artworks feature women. What made you decide to concentrate on women as subjects in your art?

You know, I never did consciously make that decision. My work is very emotional and almost entirely autobiographical. So many of my female based paintings are revealing something I am or had gone through, something I was trying to work out about my own experiences.

Something I wanted to express by cannot say verbally because I just don’t know how, or maybe feel like I am censored by certain people around me who might tell me I “can’t feel that way” because of societal, family, religious reasons, or maybe because I am afraid they will think I am just plain crazy.

And I paint what I know. So even when I am painting a woman that is obviously not me, being a Woman, I can appreciate and relate to the vulnerability, strength, and beauty in each and every woman out there.

How did you find out about the one who imitated your studio name?

When I decided to seriously pursue art in July 2008, I Googled my name and found that there is already another established artist with my name in New Mexico. So I was concerned that there might be some confusion if my name started getting out on the net. So I thought about adding a art moniker of sorts to my online art presence.

I came up with JadedWolfStudios because I have been a wolf lover since the 7th grade (after reading Julie of the Wolves). And at that point in my life that summer, I felt like every fiber of me was very jaded. So I used it along with my name on all online sites, FresnoArts, Facebook, Myspace, Etsy, email, etc. I even have the domain.

So the first thing I did was Google every variation of the terms Jaded Wolf. Absolutely nothing came up. So I knew it was a unique name. And every so often I still check the name. That was how I suddenly saw someone using that exact name “Jaded Wolf Studios” on Facebook. I reported it to Facebook, but nothing has come of it. But I am still working on it. Fortunately, there is an obvious difference between her products and my work.

What inspired you to make artwork available for everyone?

It was my decision to seriously explore my artistic expression. Before I made the leap to take my art seriously, I would always hide my work when someone came over. And if someone asked to see what I was drawing, I would show them but was incredibly self conscious. I didn’t consider myself an artist because I so rarely got to work on it and never had been able to take art classes in school.

But when I decided to pursue it, I knew that I had to show my work. It was scary because my work is so journal or diary like for those who know how to read it and are emotionally open enough to feel it. Sometimes even now, I will do something and then think: “Do I really want to reveal this?” In the end, I have to now.

As far as making it ‘available,’ let’s face it. Cash. I need some. So with the economy being not exactly artist friendly for most of us - I make my artwork available as reproductions on products like mouse pads, t-shirts, coffee mugs, etc. And I use it as a way of adding exposure to those that may not usually buy original art.

You were in awarded Postcard Artist in Cynthia’s Pink Show. Can you tell us more about the artwork?

The original artwork used for the postcard was a Reverse on Glass painting titled “Waiting On the Tender”. It features a woman’s form, and the original piece is in shades of pink, purples, with touches of metallics. It is part of my Emotional Skin series.

This piece reflects the emotions of someone who gives and gives, but never quite gets back. The tenderness that is craved and withheld. Also the duality of Tender. When you think of something being Tender, you think “sweet or loving”, or you think “raw, painful, and hurt”.

You need the Tender, crave it, beg for it. When you don’t get it, you become the Tender. Emotionally, or even physically, raw and bruised. This piece reflects the hopeful healing of the Tender, and the raw painful tenderness that consumes when that healing never comes.

How does it feel like to have such an award?

It was really sweet. It feels a little odd, I still feel like I am just a kid drawing pictures and hoping someone will want to hang it on the fridge. I am always a little amazed when someone wants it on their wall. Even when I get positive feedback or compliments, there is that voice in my head telling me they are just being polite. So I was honored enough that it was used on the postcards to promote the Pink Show ArtHop. The award was above and beyond.

You stated that you “haven't been in 'the game' long.” So far, how do you think art is in Fresno?

I was never able to go to ArtHops before July 2008 because my jobs would never allow for it. So I didn’t really get to see local art until then. I had discovered FresnoArts.net about the same time I started painting in 2008. And have to say that without FresnoArts.net, I doubt I would have had the same access to the wonderful local art community.

The opportunity to meet the incredibly encouraging Artists is inspiring in itself. I love that there seems to be a good mix of artist styles. From the traditional to the kind that makes you tilt your head and go “hmmm” (my personal favorites actually).

Art can be competitive. As someone not too long in arts but not a newbie either, how do you intend to make your presence known in Fresno?

Well, like I said, for someone that used to hide my drawings just 3 years ago – simply having a few pieces hung at the occasional ArtHop was a huge step for me. However, I am now ready to start showing on a larger scale. I am working on adding to my volume of work so that I can reach my goal of having my first solo or featured show at an established Gallery in town.

I also plan on expanding my current and existing series of work, such as the Reverse on Glass “Emotional Skin” series, as well as a highly textural pallet knife series called “Midnight Madness” which reflect a series of emotions I went through in the course of a single night and thought I was going crazy. I also have some new series that I intend to start on soon that deal with insomnia and other sleep issues.

Once I start that Insomnia series, I would like to have a show that features that subject matter. I also have some ideas for possibly having a multi artist show that deal with issues that have personal meaning to me.

Please let us know more about your Emotional Skin and Insomnia Series Collection

Emotional Skin: I only recently came up with that name. I have been doing this series since December 2009. I had 4 from the series hang at the April ArtHop at Studio 74 at a shared show with Katie Pedroza. I did not really understand yet what I was doing, just going by feel. I knew what I was doing was basically a nude of the female form, but the colors I used were nothing skin tone.

And I felt the need to add details in the way of swirls, spirals, circles, and then scratches. It was only recently that I realized this series is revealing another kind of nude, another kind of exposure or vulnerability. The emotional kind. These paintings reveal the emotional skin with all its turbulence and heartbreak. Many also reveal some personal feelings I have about my own body, my mind, certain health issues I am having.

Insomnia Series: I have not started this series yet. But I have several sketches drawn up of the first 4-5 pieces of the series to be painted. It will be very mental, and like living in a waking dream. Almost drug induced like. I've never taken drugs, but when I go on several days straight of not sleeping - I start to feel crazy.

My mind goes off in these crazy directions, crazy images. I just feel like I am losing my mind and will never be normal again. I get to where I know I am irrational but feel like I will never sleep again. This series will reflect that same instability, frustration, fear, dreamlike sensation of being here but not quite.

What message can you give to aspiring artists out there who wish to follow your example?

Don’t wait until you nearly lose it like I did. I went a little extreme and walked away from a good paying job without really being prepared to deal with the bills that were accustomed to the regular paycheck. I had to give up my house and nice new truck in the process and added strain to a relationship that was already dealing with its own issues. Try to prepare and work toward your goal with a little planning.

However! You have to pay the bills, but you also have to determine what is important in your life and what your priorities are. Then once you decide – do not let the voices of your ‘concerned’ family and friends deter you. Some will be very supportive, and some will make you feel like you’ve lost your mind or that your priorities are off.

The famous “art is nice and everything, but you need a real job with real security”. A real job will not save your sanity 20 years down the line. Only you know what is going on in your own head.

So don’t wait 20 years. Do it now, even if you cannot go full blown. Start by telling your boss or family that you require Arthop night off at least every other month. Or telling your family that on Mondays after dinner, you need alone time to paint – no exceptions. Do not allow someone to make you feel like this is not important.

Just because it is not like air to them, does not mean you do not need to do this to keep sane. Failing to make art a regular part of your life, simply because family/friends do not view it as a real priority may very well cause you to take much more drastic and desperate measures somewhere down the line. Don’t let it get to that point.

And then do what you can to head in the right direction. It may mean applying for the jobs that help in your pursuit of art by teaching your something about a technique or how to set up shows. Or just simply allows you the flexibility & time to work on your art and attend shows. This will usually mean giving up the higher paying or more glamorous jobs. But if you plan for it and keep your lifestyle in check, you can do this.

Even if you make mistakes along the way (I have), do not give up the ultimate goal. Even if you end up second guessing some of the steps you’ve taken (I have), do not stop moving forward. You may end up taking the scenic route, and have a few hairy adventures to tell later – but you will get there. Have faith in yourself.

Last question: How do you see yourself and your art 10 years from now?

I hope to have developed an artistic voice that allows the viewer to feel my heart and feel that they can relate on some level. I would love to have worked to the point of being able to have a work life, family life, and art life that is in harmony with each other. And if I would love to have my own humble studio someday where I can work on my own art, as well as show other local artist. That would be a pretty happy life for me.

Christina will be showcasing her Emotional Skin series in the upcoming ArtHop in November. The event called “Mirror Mirror” will highlight artworks that captured the souls of homeless women. The group show will be at Margaret Hudson’s Gallery on the Third Thursday Arthop, November 18, 2010 at 5-9pm, featuring the art of Margaret Hudson.

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Featured Artist: Debra Cooper Havens and Fresno Fire & Metal

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 09:21:00 GMT

Debra Cooper Havens is a versatile artist that is currently centering her artistic juices in metal crafts. With her desire to improve the quality of life in Fresno, Debra founded and created Fresno Fire and Metal School for Industrial Arts: a new non-profit educational facility that aims to give instructions to youth and adults alike on how to start creating in the field of Industrial Arts. The center prides itself on giving education that is focused on using eco-friendly practices, as well as giving special scholarships to under-privileged youth.

Can you tell us something about yourself?

I've lived in Fresno for the last 16 years. Before that, I was down in the San Diego area for grad school. Prior to that, I attended Fresno State, having spent my high school years in Visalia. So, pretty much, I've spent most of my life in the Valley. I am an artist; my love of late is metal, although for many, many years, I painted.

During the day, I am a retirement representative for a national investment company. I haven't been able to do my own artwork as much as I would normally like because I am in the middle of kicking off my non- profit, Fresno Fire and Metal.

What takes most of your time when you are taking a rest from metal creations?

My family is very important to me. I have two daughters, ages 17 and 12; a husband; and a step-son who recently left to attend Berkeley. I also have a great network of friends, and I try to make time to keep connected to them. Community is very important to me.

Working with metal can be very difficult. What made you pursue this area of creative arts?

Painting has been my primary mode of artistic expression for as long as I can remember. I was doing some really big pieces that I wanted to frame, and as you probably know, getting them framed was expensive. So, at some point, I mentioned to my mom that I would like to learn to work with metal so I could make my own frames. I'm not quite sure what she was thinking, but she ended up enrolling me in a week-long blacksmithing course! I was hooked.

What difficulties do you encounter as you work with metals?

If you don't have the support (tools, studio environment, money to buy material, etc.), it can be difficult to even get started in metalworking. Fortunately, I happened across Chris Sorensen's studio where his generosity allowed me space, tools, and materials to explore metal in an alternative way to blacksmithing. Although, I even had access to an old coke-burning forge there, and used it quite often.

Both professionally and personally, I find difficulties sometimes working with a medium that can physically outweigh me or that is stronger than I am. As you can imagine [when] working with very large pieces, sometimes I need help to do such things as twisting or holding the metal as I shape it.

If no one is around to give me a hand, I'm at a stopping point. That doesn't feel good as an artist--to have the flow of inspiration interrupted. On a personal level, I get frustrated when I can't transfer my ideas to the metal because I've either underestimated the metal or I didn't do enough homework to know its properties.

What got you interested in creating the Fresno Fire and Metal School for Industrial Arts?

A few things collided where I don't think I had any other choice other than to found this type of "school:"

1.) I am an artist and always have been.

2.) I used to teach at a local high school. My kids were reading at a 2-4th grade level, although they were in 9-10th grade. I had nothing of leverage to motivate them. Most of them didn't believe in themselves enough to try anymore in an academic setting.

3.) My environment/life experience has put me in a circle of people that are pretty influential. It dawned on me one day that these 3 things were somehow related, but it hadn't solidified in my mind just yet.

Then, once I'd taken a class at The Crucible in Oakland, it all came to an epiphany: I needed to bring the same type of industrial art school to Fresno. And, while The Crucible does a lot of community outreach, Fresno Fire and Metal has been founded with that type of outreach built into its inception.

It is our mission to allow everyone in the community to take a class at FFM to experience art in alternative ways to what's available in traditional settings, thereby improving our community through awareness of art's importance. The second part of our mission is to take what money is available and offer scholarships to under-privileged youth who otherwise could not afford to experience industrial arts.

Many kids who do poorly in academics are exceptionally talented in more artistic ways. FFM just wants to be able to fill in some of the gaps for a vulnerable section of our society, our community

You have a Founding Celebration Show scheduled at December 4, 2010. What is the event’s inspiration?

The Founding Celebration is an event designed to bring awareness to the fact that this school will be up and running soon. We want to let people know what we are planning and how important the founding of this school is to our community.

We want to share the inspiration behind the school's founding; we want community members to know that this will benefit our community on many levels: as a way to add more arts and culture to Fresno, as a way to reach at -risk youth, as a place that provides community, and as an institution that emphasizes eco-friendly practices.

Of course, we also need funding to make that happen, and this event (at $20 per person) will bring in some revenue for us to begin purchasing the equipment we need. We also want to demonstrate how different the industrial arts field is. I don't know of any other place in Fresno where a person could learn to do the things we'll be teaching.

Of course, there are some places that might teach one of these things, but all of them? The only place I know of is The Crucible, as I mentioned earlier. Take a look at their website, and you'll get a glimpse of what we're attempting to do here in Fresno. It's awe-inspiring!

What can people expect from the show?

They can expect to see things they've never seen in Fresno before! We have a performance lined up that conveys the inspiration behind the school. I wrote a theatrical/dance skit that students from Roosevelt's School of the Arts will perform to the accompaniment of some very talented local musicians: Nino Moschella, Armen Nalbandian, Lance Canales, Ray Moore Jr., and Michael Aguilar. There will be demonstrations of the types of things we'll be teaching, fire spinners, art for sale, no-host wine/beer and food, and great energy!

Do you have plans on making the show an annual event?

Yes. That's our intention. We'd like to do two events--one in spring, one in fall. This year, something else conflicted with the date we had initially set, so it was pushed to Dec. 4th.

What is the theme for this year’s show?

Debra: The theme for this year and years going forward will center on Fire and Metal. It's our intention to eventually be able to produce a well-known play, ballet, or musical with an industrial flair to it. At this year's event, the audience will see how fire, neon, and many things industrial can be incorporated into a performance to give it an edge that you might not typically think of.

Last question. How do you see yourself 10 years from now?

Wow. I've been trying to create that picture in my head lately just to keep myself in line with my goals. Life is so busy for me right now that it would be easy to get lost in the minutiae. In ten years, I envision FFM being an integral part of Fresno; where it's difficult for people to think about what it was like before FFM. A

s such, I see myself as either continuing to act on FFM's behalf as Executive Director or as a volunteer, however that ends up working out. One thing I know for sure is that I will continue to be active in our community in ways that improve life for others. In ten years, I will still be pouring myself into my own art as a means to express myself; hopefully, I'll have a lot more time to create things of beauty for others!

Artist Website and Gallery: Copper Metal Works

Event Website and Details: Fresno Fire & Metal

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