Castell Photography

Biltmore Estate Wedding, Danielle + Josh

2011-12-08T16:06:00.009-05:00

A very cold November day, but a lovely, warm, heartfelt wedding.... The ceremony was held in Biltmore's Butterfly Gardens, and the reception followed in the intimate Champagne Cellar. Best wishes to Danielle and Josh!

Greenville, NC Wedding

2011-10-21T17:26:00.013-04:00

Rod + Whitney were married in Greenville, NC at the Brook Valley Country Club. What a pleasure to photograph for graduates of ECU's School of Art and Design (my alma mater)! The event was packed with former peers and professors, so it was more than just work, but also a homecoming for me. Best wishes to them both!

Hidden River Wedding Photography: Margaret + Paul

2011-08-06T11:37:00.004-04:00

Lovely, romantic, fun wedding at Hidden River Events! So happy for Margaret and Paul.... Wishing you both much happiness!

Jamie + Graysen at Homewood, Asheville, NC

2011-06-20T10:02:00.004-04:00

A few favorites from the wedding of Jamie and Graysen a couple weeks ago at Homewood in Asheville, NC. Such a sweet couple! I wish them all the best in happiness and love....

Joy + Dennis, Hilton Head Island

2011-06-16T11:12:00.006-04:00

A little sampling from a gorgeous wedding in May at the Port Royal Country Club in Hilton Head Island. Joy and Dennis were so wonderful to work with, and their vows were literally the most heartfelt I have ever heard... Brought me to tears!

Opening Reception at Castell Photography THIS Friday!

2011-02-15T08:37:00.007-05:00

Castell Photography is pleased to announce the opening of their newest exhibition, Studies, which will feature the work of Asheville artist Honour Hiers and Wisconsin artist Wanrudee Buranakorn. Hiers creates stunning large-scale color studies of the physical nature of botanical specimens, and Buranakorn's work consists of incorporeal figure studies that are truly a view into the internal and otherworldly.

Originally from Thailand, Buranakorn is an Assistant Professor of Art at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Her work employs varieties of alternative printing processes in addition to traditional gelatin silver prints and digital. She recently mounted a mid-career retrospective exhibition in Thailand, and has exhibited extensively throughout the U.S. in a number of galleries and museums. When speaking about this series of deeply personal figurative work the artist states, "As love grows, passion fades. My body protests against the natural force of the unfortunate love cycle. My soul longs for passionate love, begging it not to pass. These images express desire and melancholy as intimacy wanes. Farewell to love.”

Hiers is an Asheville-based photographer who, after earning a BFA in photography from UNC Charlotte, opened a wedding and portrait studio, and currently travels the Southeast for assignments and commissions. Outside of commission-based work, Hiers collects botanical specimens, photographing them with a 4x5 large format camera on a light table in her studio. The results are large-scale pigment prints, documenting the luminous and transparent beauty of local plant life. Hiers says she hopes her work will “inspire and enlighten... document the uniqueness and mystique [of the specimens]... and remind us of the beauty which is present around us.”

Gallery owner Brie Castell states: “It’s exciting to pair these two artists for our first opening of 2011. Their work is so vastly different, yet comes together through this idea and action, to study. Two opposite subjects are represented, but both are thoughtful, meticulous, and emotional examinations of the internal and ethereal.”

The opening reception for Studies will be Friday, February 18th from 5 to 8 p.m. Both artists will be in attendance to meet guests, answer questions about their work, and enjoy the event. Light hors d’oeuvres and wine will be provided. The show will remain on exhibit through March 26th.

Winter Family Portrait Session

2010-12-29T16:18:00.007-05:00

Sarah contacted me a couple months ago wanting to surprise her Mother with a fine portrait session for her 60th birthday. This is such a thoughtful gift, one that really is so meaningful. Sarah's folks came in from Virginia for the birthday weekend, and while the weather wasn't completely cooperative, the images turned out lovely anyway. We had our session with Sarah's parents and husband in the River Arts District, and there were snow flakes drifting around...

Danielle + Josh To Wed at the Biltmore Estate

2010-12-29T16:08:00.006-05:00

Absolutely adored my engagement session at the Biltmore Estate with Danielle and Josh. We spent nearly 2 hours in the FREEZING cold running around all over the Estate, and i think we really did get some nice shots despite the frigid temps! They were very good sports, and managed to not look too cold. Danielle and Josh live in Kentucky, and will be saying "i do" at the Biltmore Estate in the Fall of 2011. Here's a sneak peak:

Margaret + Paul, Engaged!

2010-12-29T15:56:00.006-05:00

Just a handful of Margaret and Paul's engagement session at Hidden River, also where they will wed this coming summer. I have known Margaret and Paul for a while-- they are BIG fans of our Fine Art Photo Booths, and have attended nearly every one! Looking forward to being their wedding photographer....

Cali + Danny

2010-08-12T16:44:00.006-04:00

I don't often keep up very well with blogging, but cannot resist sharing just a handful of images from Cali and Danny's engagement session a couple weeks ago. They are such a great couple-- i totally dig them, and am really looking forward to the wedding at Rumbling Bald Resort in Lake Lure, NC this September!

WNCAP "Signature Piece Competition"

2010-07-12T11:28:00.004-04:00

The Western North Carolina AIDS Project (WNCAP) is gearing up for their 2010 "Raise Your Hand" auction set for September 25th at the DoubleTree Biltmore. This is a wonderful event that each year raises money for HIV related services to the people of WNC through client support, preventative education, and outreach activities.

Each year WNCAP holds a "Signature Piece" competition where they select one very special work of art to be prominently displayed for all ad material, posters, an the program cover. Harry Brown, Fundraising Chair, has kindly asked me to be a juror, and i am so honored to be a part of this. I donated to last year's auction, and have also been the photographer for many of their events over the past year. WNCAP is a wonderful organization, and i look forward to my continued work with them.

So, if you are an artist, please make sure to donate a work or two to the auction! If you're interested in the Signature Piece Competition, the deadline to apply is Thursday, July 15. I am looking forward to reviewing all the art!

Art Walk This Weekend & a Photobooth!

2010-06-03T17:50:00.004-04:00

LOTS going on at Castell Photography this weekend!

First......

Gateless Gate, by Gil Leebrick

Join us this Friday, June 4th, from 5-8 pm for Innerscapes, an exhibition of work by photo-based artists, Gil and Jacquelyn Leebrick.

Jacquelyn Leebrick’s work consists of digital collage and polaroid transfer, altering or obscuring the real and referencing the power of memory to transform and create emotional reaction. Gil Leebrick’s black and white landscape imagery investigates the metaphors and symbols of personal meaning, and has been influenced by his practice of Zen Buddhism.

The Leebrick’s photographic processes differ significantly: her images are soft and dreamlike constructions of the surreal, his are pristine representations of reality. Through their different processes, the combined exhibition considers their shared emphasis on the internal and the personal.

The Bedroom, by Jacquelyn Leebrick

Gil Leebrick is Professor Emeritus of Photography and the former Director of the Wellington B. Gray Gallery in the School of Art and Design at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. His photographs have been included in over 200 exhibits all over the world and are held in numerous public and private collections.

Jacquelyn Leebrick also lectures at East Carolina University as an Associate Professor and the Area Coordinator for Photography in the School of Art and Design. In 2008, The Light Factory Contemporary Museum of Photography and Film in Charlotte exhibited a mid-career retrospective of her work.

We hope to see you this Friday, June 4th, from 5 to 8 pm for the opening reception of Innerscpaes. Light hors d’oeuvres and wine will be provided. The show will run through July 31.

AND.....

Yep, It's time for another Photo Booth! This time we put the theme of the booth in the hands of our fans through a Facebook contest. We were thrilled with the winning idea-- speech bubbles! We decided to make several life size chalkboard speech bubble for each group to personalize. It will make for a very exciting and interactive event! Each session is only $10, and it includes one fine art giclee print, with extra copies at only $5 each! You can enjoy a complimentary PBR while you peruse the artwork and wait for your prints...

These photo booths are a great opportunity to get affordable, quality images of you and your loved ones. We hope you'll take advantage of this exciting day! See you Saturday!

Pinhole Photography Workshop

2010-06-03T17:41:00.003-04:00

The June 19th registration deadline for our rescheduled pinhole photography workshop is fast approaching! Limited spaces are still available for the one-day workshop, which will take place at the gallery on Sunday, June 27th from 10 am to 6 pm.

A pinhole photograph by Brie Castell

During the workshop students will build and use their own pinhole cameras, and then develop paper negatives and create prints from exposures they've made that day. The workshop will also cover the science and history of pinhole photography, and the types of pinhole cameras and their construction. Best of all, students will learn how to continue making and developing pinhole photographs in their own homes, even without a darkroom!

The Pinhole Photography Workshop will be taught by gallery owner Brie Castell. No previous darkroom or photography experience is necessary-- all levels are welcome from the beginner to the advanced photographer. The cost is $125 per person or $90 for students. The price includes all materials and lunch. Spaces are limited! To reserve a space, contact Castell Photography today. All registration forms can be downloaded from our website.

HATCH ASHEVILLE

2010-04-11T10:50:00.006-04:00

Don't miss out on all the wonderful HATCH happenings coming to Asheville, Wednesday April 15 through Sunday April 18!

There will be many panels, exhibitions, etc, and you certainly will want to check out everything that photography has to offer this year! I will be doing a wet plate collodion demo on Friday at 4pm, and will also be on a terrific panel discussion on Sunday afternoon at 3pm, along with Diana Stoll, senior editor at Aperture magazine, Meg Reilley, Renee Treece, Dot Griffith, and Tammy Mercure. What a wonderful group of talented women....

This year, the photography exhibition will take place in the form of an outdoor, nighttime projected slideshow on the side of the LAB downtown! Friday evening, from 8:30-9:30.

In addition to the exhibition, The Language of Stillness by Martin Stranka at Castell Photography, you will also want to check out another photography show at the Satellite Gallery by Joel Vann Fuller, Primal Faces.

Castell Photography will also be hosting all fashion events this year--- the seminars on Thursday and Friday, and also the big fashion show/reception on Saturday evening.

There are loads of exciting events lined up in all disciplines, so check out www.hatchasheville.org for a complete schedule. Big thanks go out to Lynne Harty, Asheville photographer who has worked so hard to get photography to be a main event this year!

HATCH at Castell Photography

2010-03-16T15:20:00.005-04:00

We are so pleased to announce that Castell Photography will be a proud sponsor of HATCH Asheville 2010!

For those unfamiliar, the mission of HATCH is to provide mentorship, education, inspiration and recognition to the next generation of creative innovators. HATCHfest brings together luminaries in the arts and entertainment world to serve as mentors to groundbreaking new creative talent. There are panels, workshops, keynotes, exhibits, networking parties, and mentoring sessions for four days in the heart of downtown Asheville.

We'll be the host for all fashion events taking place this year, with the opening fashion event taking place on Thursday, April 15. We'll post more details as they become available. In the meantime, check out www.hatchasheville.org. You can also sign up to your left to receive our monthly e-newsletter, and/or become a fan on facebook!

Thanks HATCH! We are looking forward to being a part of this wonderful event!

Opening Reception for "Ooh La La"

2010-01-29T17:17:00.005-05:00

Join us for an exhibition opening reception on Friday, February 5 from 7-10pm featuring new works by Brie Castell. This is a reception unlike any other!

Enjoy performances by Bootstraps Burlesque Troop, and live mannequins showcasing the lacy lingerie of Elise Olson from On the Inside!

Indulge in decadent sweets, champagne cocktails and other tasty drinks! Sponsored in part by The Village Wayside Bar & Grill in Biltmore Village.

2C Wilson Alley, Downtown Asheville (off Eagle Street, behind Limones)

www.castellphotography.com 828.255.1188

Exhibition in Chicago

2010-01-20T14:57:00.005-05:00

I will be part of the group exhibition, Small Mistakes and Miracles, at Las Manos Gallery in Chicago. My good friend Antonio Martinez has orchestrated this whole thing, and i am so thankful for him! The show will include works by myself, Antonio Martinez, Aspen Hochhalter, and Benjamin Isburg. There will be an opening reception from 6-10pm on February 5, and the exhibit will run through February 28. Wish i could make it to the opening, but i have another opening here at Castell Photography the same night!

New Year, New Website

2010-01-08T10:09:00.002-05:00

After several months of work and design, the new website for Castell Photography is finally up and running!

There are extended portfolios, and a wealth of information for any visitor. Some minor changes are still in the works, but overall it a much more streamlined and efficient site.

Please check it out!

Holiday Cards

2009-10-31T18:26:00.009-04:00

Now is the time to be thinking about and planning for your holiday cards... And why not surprise all of your dear family and friends with a beautiful portrait of you, your kids, your family, and/or your pets. It's easy: Just come on out to our Holiday Card Fine Art Photo Booth!

Castell Photography will be hosting a very special Fine Art Photo Booth on Saturday, November 7, from 10am until 5pm. This one is all about the holiday spirit, and an easy, inexpensive way of having a memorable portrait and one-of-a-kind cards. For just $20, you will receive a mini-portrait session for up to 6 people (or animals)... Then you choose your favorite picture, and you get 5 free 4x6 cards with the option of ordering more. My gallery manager, Heidi Gruner, has custom-designed all the cards which are available as 4x6 or 5x7 folding cards. She is a talented graphic designer who handles just about all of my design work. You should check out her work!

The following are a few samples of these fabulous cards, as well as the poster for the Holiday Card Fine Art Photo Booth... (Click on each for a larger view)

October Booth

2009-10-05T16:41:00.010-04:00

What a crazy afternoon at Castell Photography! We had our third Fine Art Photo Booth on Saturday, and this time the theme was PROPS! We supplied a few things, but the rest (and the best) was kindly loaned to us by The Honeypot on Lexington Avenue in downtown Asheville. Thank you so so much Sara and The Honeypot!

Remember: while this is the final Booth of the season, we will be hosting a very special Holiday Booth on November 7, from 10-4. More details coming soon. Meanwhile, enjoy the images....

Action Packed Weekend At Castell Photography!

2009-10-02T11:29:00.005-04:00

We have a whole lot of great things going on this weekend at Castell Photography!

First, tonight Friday October 2, we have an exhibition opening from 5-8pm for photo-based artist, Audrey Goforth. She will be showing platinum prints (a handmade, 19th century process) and beautiful color scanograms. The opening coincides with the final 2009 downtown Asheville Art Walk. Come on out for lots of mingling, hors d'oeuvres, wine, and fantastic photo-based art!

Tomorrow (Saturday, October 3) we will host our final 2009 Fine Art Photo Booth! Each time we do the Booth, we use a different theme or style, and this time it is PROPS! We’ll have an assortment of props available, from wigs to deer antlers (!), or you can bring your own. This is an opportunity to get creative by choosing a prop that represents you. One of our best customers of the Booth is Audrey Goforth, our featured photographer this month, and she will be bringing her favorite rooster as her “prop”! The ideas are endless...

The Castell Photography Photo Booths have been wildly popular, and this is the last one of the year! It is only $10 for up to three people and includes one 5x7 fine art giclee print. Extra copies are only $5, and enjoy a FREE PBR while you wait! It is a super fun day, so make sure to come on out!

Jane + Tejas Wed in 2 Ceremonies...

2009-09-23T11:11:00.007-04:00

Well, it rained on and off throughout the day, but that did not stop Jane & Tejas from their spectacular wedding last Saturday! Jane grew up in Rutherfordton, NC, and Tejas' family is originally from India. A christian ceremony was held at Jane's family church in Rutherfordton, and then a Hindu ceremony and reception followed at the RockHouse Vineyards in Tryon.

I have witnessed many weddings, but this was truly the essence of Celebration, and this is what should be celebrated and recognized in a wedding. It was a wedding about love, friendship, and family, and the coming together of two families. Thank you Jane and Tejas for inviting me to be a part of your day, and to photograph this unique celebration. This is what i love about my work...

(thanks to my assistant Matt for capturing this great shot of the rain!)

Feature in EYEMAZING Magazine

2009-09-04T18:12:00.004-04:00

The new fall issue of EYEMAZING Magazine is out, and i am so completely excited that i am one of the featured artists in it!!!! EYEMAZING is an Amsterdam-based publication of international contemporary photography, which, by the way, won the Lucie Award for Best Photography Magazine of 2008. Also featured in this issue are Helmut Newton, Steve McCurry, and Garry Winogrand, to name a few, and it is just thrilling to be sharing space with these historic photographers.

I am anxiously awaiting my copies to arrive in the mail... but in the meantime, the website has thumbnails of all featured photographers, along with the full length articles. Check it out!

August Fine Art Photo Booth!

2009-08-30T13:25:00.011-04:00

We had our second Fine Art Photo Booth on Saturday, coinciding with the downtown Goombay Festival. There was a wonderful turnout! Thanks so much to everyone who came out, and especially to our repeat customers! This time we used Wilson Alley as our backdrop, and it was really fun spreading out and utilizing all the fabulous colors and textures within that space.

Mark your calendars... Our next Booth is scheduled for Saturday, October 3, from 12-6! The theme this time will be PROPS!! We'll have a huge selection of all kinds of fun and ridiculous items for your use in the Booth, or bring your own! This will be the final one of the season, and they will resume in April of next year.

However... we will be holding a super special Holiday Fine Art Photo Booth later this Fall, so keep an eye and an ear out for details soon... it is sure to be spectacular, and an affordable and easy way to get some fine imagery for your holiday cards!

Some highlights from the sessions:

Fine Art Photo Booth & GOOMBAY!

2009-08-27T17:27:00.006-04:00

It will be an exciting weekend around The Block and Castell Photography! Join us on Saturday for our 2nd Fine Art Photo Booth! $10 gets you an ultra-mini-session in our "booth" and one 5x7 giclee art print! Additional copies are only $5. Also, enjoy a free PBR while you wait! The Booth was a hit in July, and also noted as a MountainXpress "Smart Bet", so make sure to come early. No reservations needed. Check out our previous posting on the Booth below.

And don't forget to stroll around The Block for Asheville's GOOMBAY Festival! Sponsored by the YMI Cultural Center, the Goombay Festival celebrates African-Caribbean culture and heritage, and is one of several worldwide variations of the centuries-old celebration. Come out and enjoy music, dancing, food, and crafts.

Art Walk & New Wet Plate Collodion

2009-08-04T16:37:00.006-04:00

Don't forget-- the next Asheville Downtown Art Walk is this Friday, August 7 from 5-8 pm! We will be showcasing a brand new body of work called Relic & Ritual by yours truly. These are all captured and created using the wet plate collodion (ambrotype) process. Developed in the 1850's, the ambrotype process involves sensitizing a glass plate and then exposing it directly in-camera. The result is an ethereal one-of-a-kind piece which cannot be reproduced, such as a negative.

We hope you will stop in this Friday to view my new work, and enjoy hors d'oeuvres, wine, beer, and my famous and ultra-delicious chocolate covered strawberries!

Photo Booth Fun

2009-07-27T16:52:00.007-04:00

Thanks to everyone who came out to the Fine Art Photo Booth this past weekend! It was a huge success, and we had so so much fun doing it! I have to send a VERY big thanks to my 2 girls-- Miranda, my so very wonderful and intelligent intern, and Heidi, my sassy, stylish, go-getter assistant-- without you both, i couldn't have pulled it off. Also, THANK YOU MOUNTAINX! We had so many people come in just because they read about us in your "Smart Bets" section!

Since the Booth was a success and loads of fun, we have decided to make this a monthly offer, April through October. Details soon on the next Fine Art Photo Booth... Meanwhile, check out some really fun highlights of the day:

Smart Bets Feature in MountainX!

2009-07-23T18:51:00.000-04:00

Special Events at Castell Photography During Bele Chere!

2009-07-20T13:21:00.004-04:00

It is almost that time again... The Bele Chere Festival is this weekend! Castell Photography Salon & Gallery will have a few special things going on to celebrate...

First, while you browse amazing photo-based artwork, enjoy FREE PBR all day Saturday with a Bele Chere Wristband! Also on Saturday, we will be having our first ever Fine Art Photo Booth. This will be so much fun... for only $10, receive a mini photo session and one 5x7 giclee print in your choice of vintage black and white or color! The "booth" will accommodate 1-3 people and/or pets. Bring your friends, your kids, your dogs, and enjoy a super-fun portrait session opportunity at an unbeatable price! We are expecting big crowds, so come early! Photo Booth hours are from 12-7pm on Saturday only.

Also come check out great deals on matted and loose prints in our Alleyway Sidewalk Sale! Most of these are silver gelatin prints, handmade in the darkroom, and are a steal-- most under $50 and some as low as $15!!

Castell Photography will have extended hours during Bele Chere Weekend: Friday, July 24 from 12-8, Saturday, July 25 11-8, and Sunday 12-6.

Come visit us at Castell Photography and see what we have to offer. We're looking forward to seeing everyone!

Meet Stella...

2009-06-23T12:43:00.005-04:00

In January, Matt and i adopted "Stella" (full name, Stella Louise Startown), a Walker Hound. My family actually witnessed her being abandoned on the side of a road on New Year's Day, and we couldn't resist taking her in... She is crazy and wild, and a complete handful, but we sure do love her! Here are a couple images i made on 120 film with my Hasselblad camera...

Jessica & Anthony: A Bristol Wedding

2009-06-16T11:41:00.006-04:00

When i first met Jessica and learned that she and Anthony were tying the knot in Bristol, VA, i knew i was the perfect photographer for her-- i used live in Bristol, and received my undergraduate degree in photography and digital imaging from Virginia Intermont College, just steps away from their ceremony and reception. I have a true soft spot in my heart for that friendly and charming town, and was a lot of fun going back as a professional. The coolest part was the reception was held at the historic Bristol Train Station, a place that i used to photograph, and has since been renovated back to it's original glory.

While Jessica is originally from Bristol, she and Anthony both live here in Asheville. It was a beautiful day, and they make such an adorable couple! I have never seen a couple beam as much as these two, and Jessica's smile was contagious...

A High Hampton Inn Wedding: Michelle + Caleb

2009-06-09T15:56:00.007-04:00

Michelle & Caleb were married on Saturday at High Hampton Inn in Cashiers, NC. HHI is the absolute perfect setting for a gorgeous and intimate ceremony and reception. I am always so pleased when i have the opportunity to shoot there! There is never a lack of stunning backdrops, and Director of Events, Caroline Meads, is always a pleasure to work with.

Michelle looked gorgeous in her gown, one of the prettiest i have seen, and the flowers by Chattooga Gardens were absolutely lovely. The day was intimate, elegant, and thoughtful, and the couple was absolutely blissful... My favorite part, though, was that they included their dog, Teddy, as one of the Groomsmen-- he even had his very own boutonniere! Adorable...

Join Us For Next Art Walk: This Friday, June 5

2009-06-01T14:06:00.017-04:00

The next downtown Asheville Art Walk is scheduled for this coming Friday, June 5th from 5-8 pm. Castell Photography will be featuring the work of two new artists, Aspen Hochhalter and Julie Mixon, as well as an ongoing exhibition by Brie Castell. Brie attended graduate school with both of these lovely image-makers, and is thrilled to showcase their talents here in Asheville. Hochhalter is exhibiting her new project, The Reclamation of Silver, which through digital methods, reexamines and reinterprets appropriated silver gelatin imagery. Mixon is showing a variety of works which explore still life and landscape in relation to biblical symbolism, and all are imbued with quiet, subtle, and deeply personal reflections.

The exhibition will run through August 1, 2009.

Come on out this Friday between 5pm and 8pm for wine, hors d'oeuvres, and wonderful new photo-based art!

Aspen Hochhalter, from the Reclamation of Silver Series; Inkjet on Silk Panels

Julie Mixon, Transition; Archival Inkjet Print

Julie Mixon, Respite #2; Archival Inkjet Print from Lomo Camera Negative

Our Beloved Guineas

2009-05-31T17:50:00.003-04:00

Say hello to our new guinea fowl! Matt and i live on a 160 acre homestead (we're still thinking of names...), and have been wanting to raise chickens for a while. But when we found so many ticks around our heavily wooded property, we decided instead (for now anyway) on the powerful, bug-eating, tick-loving guinea fowl. We already had a sort of makeshift coop, so Matt worked hard constructing an attached, fenced in outdoor "lounging area" for them as well. We got 5 adults since we were too late this season for guinea keets. Unfortunately, they will have to stay in their new home for about 8 weeks to re-adjust. Then we will let them go to free range and eat all of our nasty little ticks!

Whitney & Matt Are Married!

2009-05-01T17:53:00.010-04:00

I had the absolute pleasure of photographing Whitney and Matt's gorgeous wedding this past weekend in Cordele, Georgia. Both families were incredibly kind and generous, and i had such a wonderful time being a part of their special weekend. The whole weekend was about family and friends, and loads and loads of true southern charm! By the way, Matt & Whitney are honeymooning in Tahiti, and i am terribly jealous...

A few images (well, a lot-- there are, after all, nearly 3500 to choose from)...

Before & After

2009-04-21T14:02:00.002-04:00

The new gallery is at last finished, so i thought i would post a couple before & after pictures...

Today in Asheville...

2009-04-18T07:54:00.006-04:00

There are so many things going on today in downtown Asheville! And Castell Photography salon & gallery will be open from 10am until... The following are my personal picks for what to do today... Get yourself out in the beautiful weather we are going to have, and make sure to stop into the gallery for a visit and a cold beer...

First, there's the Howard Street Handmade market at 227 Haywood from 11-5. This will feature local craftspeople and artists selling all kinds of goodies for really great prices. I had a friend in it last year, and it was such a great event- it's like ETSY.com in person!

Today is also the final day of HATCHfest, a mentoring festival for the creative industries. There are lectures, exhibits, panel discussions, screenings, and more going on all over Asheville.

The first day of the Asheville City Market begins today!!! With over 60 local vendors, you can find the BEST farm-grown and handmade local foods and gifts. I will be there soon to pick up some eggs, lettuce, bread, and goat cheese (i am especially excited about the goat cheese). This is happening in the parking lot of the Public Works at 161 S. Charlotte St. This is literally a 45 second walk from my gallery... AND, the 9's very own Honour Hiers Mann will be there as a vendor, so please go check her out and support your local community.

Hope to see you!

Art Walk Tonight

2009-04-03T09:51:00.003-04:00

Oh what a last minute post, but better late than never....

My new gallery & studio will finally be open for business beginning on April 7, but you can get a sneak peak tonight from 5-8pm during downtown Asheville's first Art Walk of the year. Stop in for a little wine and hors d'oeuvres, and of course, art!

Regular business hours will be Tuesday through Friday, 11-6, and Saturdays on occasion. I will be starting a new monthly email newsletter, so if you are not on my email list and would like to sign up, please just pop me an email to castellphotography@gmail.com.

2C Wilson Alley (off Eagle Street, just behind Limones Restaurant)

Help Me Get Out of Jail!

2009-03-20T13:47:00.003-04:00

I wanted to tell everyone about a very special fundraising event that THE NINE photographers, Corey Cagle, Audrey Goforth, and myself are currently involved with, a "Lock-up" benefitting Jerry's Kids and MDA. We'll be "arrested" March 25, and "jailed" at the Outback Steakhouse in Hendersonville from 12-1pm. Our "bail" is set at $2400 each, so we are working hard to raise this money! All proceeds go to fund research, medical equipment, and support groups, and even to provide a magical week of MDA Summer Camp for families served by the Association in our local area.

Donations can mailed (check made out to MDA) directly to the gallery at 2 C Wilson Alley, Asheville, NC 28801, or you can pay by credit card on my personal MDA Website. Everyone is also invited to the Hendersonville Outback Steakhouse if you'd like to bring in your donation to the scene of the crime...

Remember! All donations are 100% TAX DEDUCTIBLE!! There's nothing to lose, and everything to gain. Help out a few kids and donate now!

Thanks for your support!

Work to be Published in Eyemazing Magazine!

2009-02-20T10:48:00.006-05:00

Last November i was accepted into a juried group exhibition at the Center For Fine Art Photography called Idea of Self. The show opened on February 13, and i just received word that i have been selected out of the 49 exhibited photographers to be published in Eyemazing Magazine, an Amsterdam-based publication of international contemporary photography (which, by the way, won the Lucie Award for Best Photography Magazine of 2008). I cannot express how utterly ecstatic i am! I don't know any more details other than this, but i am hoping to find out more very, very soon....

To see an online slideshow of all

works in Idea of Self, check it out here.

January Wedding Festivals Bridal Show

2009-01-29T08:39:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to quickly post a couple pictures from the January Wedding Festivals bridal show at the Civic Center in Asheville. Matt and i built the entire set from scratch with our own 4 hands, and i think it looked wonderful! There was a huge turnout, and my assistant, Sarah, and i had the honor of meeting and talking with many couples and their families.

Updates on New Gallery

2009-01-28T17:09:00.004-05:00

So i have realized amongst all the chaos that it has been ages since i last posted anything, and i didn't want anyone thinking i had disappeared...

I did want to provide a little update on what's going on at Castell Photography. Lots! Renovations are underway and in full swing at my new space in downtown Asheville. I am there almost every day painting, and i think i also paint in my sleep... The brand new state-of-the-art (well, i like to think so) darkroom is on it's way to being plumbed, and walls are about to go up to divide some of the large space as well as to provide so much more surface for all the exciting new exhibitions which will take place each year. We've also totally demo'd the bathroom, with plans for a new floor and cabinetry. You gotta have a good loo, am i right?

I also attended my first Asheville Downtown Gallery Association meeting as i am proud to be a new member! This is a great organization, and includes Asheville's finest galleries such as Blue Spiral, Gallery Minerva, and the Haen Gallery, just to name a few. We discussed the new brochure that will come out sometime in late March which will highlight the galleries of downtown and also be a map so we can easily be located. Please make sure to mark your calendars and come out to this year's Art Walk's, scheduled for April 3, June 5, August 7, and October 2 from 5-8pm.

More news: make sure to update my new info.... new business number is 828.255.1188 and my new business address is 2 C & D Wilson Alley, Asheville, NC 28801.

Ok, back to work!

Moving Downtown!

2008-12-02T09:07:00.002-05:00

I am so excited to finally share this big news... i will be moving Castell Photography into a commercial space downtown Asheville! It is a large, 2 level space, and it will function as a venue to meet with my clients, a work area and darkroom, and a photo-based gallery with rotating exhibitions of my own work as well as that of other artists.

It's a bit on the unfinished side for what i have in mind. The layout is very open, but Matt and i will be building a few walls to create a darkroom and work area, building storage closets (because there are none), installing lots of lights, and finally, painting, painting, and more painting-- floors and walls! I'll be moving things into the space beginning this Thursday and continuing in little chunks throughout the coming weeks. All remodeling and painting will take place in January and February.

The opening date is set for March 3, 2009, if all goes as planned. I will keep everyone updated on the progress! The address is 2C&D Wilson Alley, just behind Blue Spiral and Limones Restaurant off of Eagle Street.

Exhibition at the Center for Fine Art Photography: Idea of Self

2008-11-21T14:34:00.002-05:00

I am so so excited to find out this afternoon that my work has been accepted into a group exhibition called "Idea of Self," which will be on display at the Center For Fine Art Photography in Fort Collins, Colorado! This will be my second time being invited to exhibit my work at the Center, and i am just so very honored and thrilled.

There were more than 1400 submissions, and only 50 artists were selected to participate. What i am truly excited about, however, is that the show was juried by Susan A. Zadeh, the founder, publisher, editor in chief and artistic director for EYEMAZING, and international magazine on contemporary photography based in Amsterdam. I have read this magazine for years, so i think it's just so cool that she was the juror!

The exhibition will open at the Center on February 13, 2009. There will also be an online gallery, and i will make sure to post a link to that when the time comes!

Brooke & Chad

2008-11-10T12:01:00.006-05:00

A few weeks ago i had the honor of photographing the wedding of Brooke and Chad. Both are Asheville natives, and fell in love as teenagers... they are such a sweet couple! The ceremony took place at the Memorial Chapel at Lake Junaluska, and the reception followed at Laurel Ridge Country Club. An October wedding definitely calls for Fall colors, and Sweetbriar Flower Shoppe of Hendersonville created lovely bouquets and centerpieces for the ocassion. I want to thank both families for being so kind and generous. It was a pleasure working with everyone!

Frankie and his Bride

2008-11-01T14:05:00.006-04:00

I think Halloween is probably my favorite day of the year! It's really been a long time since i put some effort into a costume, so this year, Matt and i decided to go all out and hit the town as Frankenstein and his Bride. I found the prettiest Victorian dress at the coolest vintage store in Asheville, "Vintage Moon" on Commerce St. It's my new favorite place. You should go check them out!!! Anyway, my hair took about 2 hours to put together-- there is a wire cage form under it an then just lots of teasing and a whole can of hairspray. The white zigzags are actually acrylic paint! It's still not all the way out... I also did Matt's makeup, and he looked great! We entered a costume contest at a club downtown. While we got lots of cheers, a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader beat us and everyone else in the end . . .

2 New Slideshows . . .

2008-10-24T12:59:00.004-04:00

Just wanted to post quickly about two new slideshows posted on my website for Angie & David's wedding and Rachael & Mike's wedding. Take a look!

A Session with Rachael

2008-10-20T19:19:00.007-04:00

Yesterday i met up with Rachael and Mike and their friend Briteny at the Biltmore Estate for a post-cermony "Trash-the-Dress" Session. The setting and light were absolutely stunning, so i really wanted to take advantage of this and make some images that weren't so "trashy". After a while of shooting around the estate and grounds, we headed out to a pond where Rachael took off her shoes and carefully walked into the murky water for a few frames... she was so brave! Rachael has such classical features, and of course Biltmore has an ultra regal setting, so i really wanted these photographs to portray a feeling of elegance. She looks so beautiful in these, and i am very happy with the results! By the way, i am currently offering (for a limited time!) complimentary "Trash the Dress" Sessions to brides who book with me . . . Also, don't forget, click on the images for a larger view! Oh, and if you want to see a few photographs from Rachael and Mike's wedding day, please scroll down . . .

Rachael & Mike, Biltmore Estate

2008-10-16T10:39:00.009-04:00

Rachael and Mike, a local Asheville couple, were married a couple weeks ago at the pastoral River Bend Farm at the Biltmore Estate. This was my very first Biltmore wedding, so i was especially pleased they chose me to photograph their day! Rachael and her bridesmaids, mother, and grandmother all prepared for the event at the beautiful Inn on Biltmore Estate. E. Scott Thompson worked meticulously on everyone's makeup (he did a fantastic job by the way), while Lalena and Haven from Ananda Hair Studio styled all the ladies' hair. The girls looked fabulous! The whole day was just perfect, the flowers by the Bloom Room were absolutely exquisite and unique, and the ceremony taking place at sundown was truly romantic! It was almost dark by the time i was able to finally get some shots with the couple alone, but with a little creative lighting (and the help of my fantastic assistant, Sarah), i think i definitely made some very sexy photographs . . . Here are some of favorites:

Angie & David are Married!

2008-10-10T14:34:00.011-04:00

It was a complete honor for me to photograph the wedding of Angie and David on September 27 at Homewood. The weather was a little iffy at the start of the day, but surprisingly the clouds began to clear and the sun came out just in time for their gorgeous outdoor ceremony in Homewood's enchanting glen. The whole day was truly magical, and i am just so happy i can now call these lovely people my friends. Thanks and congratulations to both of them!

Tom + Courtney

2008-09-29T13:27:00.013-04:00

Last Saturday i had the privilege of photographing the wedding of Tom Schaefer and Courtney Everson, both from St. Louis, Missouri. The ceremony was held at the Cathedral of All Souls in Biltmore Village, and the reception followed at the Grove Park Inn. The day started out at the ultra chic Spa at Biltmore Village where close friends and family were pampered with massages and manicures, and hair was then styled next door at Wink Salon and Boutique. It was a great day with beautiful weather, and it was such a joy to get to know both families who travelled so far to be a part of this special day in Asheville.

The Nine

2008-09-09T19:13:00.006-04:00

So it is 9/9 and what a fitting date to announce formally on my blog about a new group i have the privilege of being a part of . . . The Nine.

The Nine is:

Audrey Gofourth

Corey Cagle

Honour Hiers

Katy Cook

Kelly Giezentanner

Orange Cat Photo

Jill Schwartzkopf

Regina Holder

and myself...

We are a collective of nine women, artists, and photographers based in Western North Carolina. Our major goal is twofold-- to offer people an avenue to easily locate a variety of talented photographers who support and back each other, and to offer our collective power as nine minds and businesses as a means of support and commitment within our communities.

It is truly an honor to be associated with these ladies! We come from a variety of backgrounds and styles, and it has been so wonderful having them as a new foundation in my business and life.

Come meet The Nine!

Exhibition at Virginia Intermont College: "REFLECTion"

2008-08-30T12:28:00.005-04:00

I was invited a few months ago by the photography professors at Virginia Intermont College in Bristol, VA to exhibit a body of work entitled REFECTion at their photography gallery. This collection is an exploration of the complex relationship between self-portraiture, time, and memory. These are all self-portraits, and I use these as a means to constantly redefine and separate myself from the "family album." Each of the images is a "new" snapshot; one that, while still only a fraction of a second, can encompass and illustrate a broader range of time and emotion than that of the family album.

The process for all of these images begins with a toy camera called a Holga. A Polaroid back is attached, and all exposures are first created onto Polaroid sheet film. The image is then manipulated by hand with a variety of tools and chemicals. They are then scanned, minimally altered in the digital darkroom, and then printed as 26"x26" LightJet prints.

REFLECTion will be up through September 2008. Below are 2 photographs from the series. They are a limited edition of 25, and are $450 each.

The Greene Family

2008-08-23T13:51:00.006-04:00

Yesterday i had the privilege of photographing the Greene Family! They are all in town for the weekend to celebrate the 60th anniversary of their grandparents/parents. Since they are staying at the Grove Park Inn, we thought the grounds would make a terrific setting for some pictures of the grandchildren and family. The entire group was so friendly and outgoing, making my job very easy and enjoyable. I'll be meeting up with the family again this evening to capture a group photo on the terrace before they have the celebratory dinner. Here are just a few of the images from our session yesterday... (Thanks also to the Grovewood Gallery for allowing us access to their property!)

click on photos for larger view!

Brooke and Chad

2008-07-16T13:17:00.005-04:00

Yesterday i met up with Brooke and Chad at the North Carolina Arboretum for their engagement photo session. We had a really nice time getting to know each other a little better, and just walking around the beautiful gardens where there were plenty of blooming flowers to use as our backdrop and setting. Brooke and Chad are such a sweet and friendly couple! And their story is so lovely and romantic-- they are childhood sweethearts, and have been together since the 7th grade... They both currently live in Fletcher and will be getting married at Lake Junaluska with the reception to follow at Laurel Ridge Country Club. Here are a few images i picked out as some of my favorites....

Rachael + Mike

2008-07-12T14:34:00.005-04:00

It's been months since our initial consultation, and although we've exchanged many emails along the way, it was really great to see Rachael and Mike again yesterday evening! We met for their engagement shoot at the Biltmore Estate, where they will be getting hitched in late September. Millie, Rachael and Mike's Boxer, came along as well to star in some of the photographs-- she's so so photogenic, and i think ALL boxers absolutely adore being the center of attention... We strolled around the grounds, chatted about the upcoming Big Day, and made some great images. The weather was perfect-- a little hot, but great evening light. Here are a few photos from our session.... I am looking forward to the wedding!

New & Improved!

2008-07-10T12:52:00.002-04:00

I've finally finished all the current updates to my website, www.castellphotography.com, so please take a look at it! Most sane people just use an online design and management service for their sites, but i apparently have to always make things just a little bit more difficult by doing it myself the old-fashioned way using Dreamweaver. The majority of credit should be given, however, to my amazing and very talented boyfriend, Matt, who has done 99% of it, teaching me a few things along the way....

Also, i am in the process of creating a new and separate site exclusively for my personal fine art imagery. This will be an opportunity for me to showcase the other side to my work and my passion for conceptual photography. It will also be a online resource for my collectors where they will easily be able to purchase artwork.

Slideshow of Taunya & Mark's Wedding!

2008-07-10T11:06:00.001-04:00

New Addition to Our Family!

2008-07-03T09:00:00.003-04:00

My friend and fellow photographer, Audrey Gofourth, found 3 kittens under a house with no mama cat in sight, and rescued them. She had been trying for a few weeks to find a good home for the little ones, so after a long talk with our 2 dogs, Nigel and Salvador, we all decided to adopt one. We picked her up from Audrey's last Sunday, and she's been a funny, playful, adorable little joy ever since! We are still working on a name for her, but are leaning toward "Suddi" which means white girl in the Sinhala language of Sri Lanka. She moves so quickly, it's been difficult to get a good photo of her, but here are a couple when she actually stood still for a moment..... so cute....

More of Taunya and Mark....

2008-07-03T08:45:00.007-04:00

I have been editing all of Taunya and Mark's 4500 images (yes, 4500!), and have finally narrowed it down to about 1500 proofs. Thought i would post a few more of my favorites....

Taunya & Mark, High Hampton Inn

2008-06-03T09:45:00.012-04:00

What a day! Upon pulling in to Taunya's driveway, i ran into a small rock wall with my front tire, and completely blew it out! One of her dear friends, Max, worked so hard to replace it with my spare, but with my luck the spare didn't fit. (By the way, a big big thanks to Max for all of his efforts.) Fortunately, the amazing staff at the High Hampton Inn stepped in and provide me with a golf cart to get around in for the day, so i was able to leave my troubles behind me until after the wedding...

And what a wedding it was! I really did have such a great time photographing Taunya and Mark, and their friends and family made my job very enjoyable. Both had 8, yes 8, attendants, comprised of lots of nieces, one nephew, and many friends, and they were all such a joy to be around! The ceremony was absolutely stunning with a scenic backdrop that couldn't be beat. At the reception, the Diane Macintosh Band performed, and i have to say that they put on a fantastic show! If you're still on the search for entertainment, I highly recommend them.

It was a beautiful day, and i hope Mark and Taunya are having a great honeymoon! Here are some sneak peeks of the images . . .

Memorial Day Weekend

2008-05-28T08:47:00.009-04:00

My boyfriend Matt and i were able to head down to Maiden on Sunday to visit with family and celebrate my cousin's birthday (who lives in D.C.) and Memorial Day. It was a gorgeous afternoon! All 5 of my nieces and nephews came out to run around and play on the farm. My aunt Jill cooked tons of delicious food, including bbq chicken, mac and cheese, and fresh strawberries to dip in chocolate fondue. It was so good! I took about a million photographs, but here are just a handful...

Angie, David, & Tashi

2008-05-25T11:22:00.008-04:00

I first met Angie and David at the winter bridal show at the Asheville Civic Center. They are both Doctors currently living in Winston Salem, and will be getting married in September at Homewood. Here is a small sampling of the first edit; film is yet to be processed, so more will show up here sometime this week...

Saturday was an absolutely beautiful day to be outside and making some engagement shots! We met up first at the Botanical Gardens, and then headed over to the French Broad River Park where we were able to let their beautiful Golden Retriever, Tashi, out of the car and off her leash. Tashi (means 'good luck' or 'good fortune') was so much fun and absolutely loved the river... we had a hard time keeping her out!

We really did have a great time strolling around, and it was an absolute pleasure to learn more about Angie and David, and Tashi too. Their wedding is sure to be an elegant and intimate affair, and i cannot wait to be a part of it and make some beautiful photos for them...

More Storytelling with Anais

2008-05-09T09:56:00.007-04:00

I wanted to post some additional photographs of Anais we made on two separate sessions, one in her home and the other on the beautiful grounds of the Biltmore. The square images were created with a Hasselblad with PlusX film, and the others with my 5x7 camera. The "boudoir" image below is made of a liquid silver emulsion brushed onto watercolor paper, which was partially toned with a copper solution after processing.

Taunya & Mark's Engagement Photo Shoot!

2008-05-09T09:25:00.009-04:00

Just before i was off to Chicago, i met up (finally!) with Taunya and Mark who will be getting married May 31, 2008 at the High Hampton Inn in Cashiers. It was so nice to finally meet both of them, and especially Taunya since we have talked extensively by phone and email for months now. It was great getting to know them a little bit before their big day, which is only 3 weeks away now!

We met at the Inn in Cashiers to go over last minute details for their wedding, scout the location, and then make some photographs. Here is a small sampling from that session... Looking forward to the

big day!

ARTropolis & The Artist Project

2008-05-01T11:19:00.008-04:00

So we just got back from a long and exhausting 8 days in Chicago for the Artist Project as part of ARTropolis at the Merchandise Mart. It was fantastic! Tens of thousands of people came through the 3 show floors of the Mart every day. It was so intense and overwhelming to a part of something so huge and important!!! I sold some work and met many wonderful artists and collectors. The best part of the whole thing was the response I received from my images... it was amazing how many people really connected with and appreciated my work! Since in my personal artwork I focus much on the male

nude and the psychological portrait, it has always been difficult to find any positive feedback in the South. But in Chicago, the response was much different-- instead of hearing words like "dark" and "disturbing", viewers would say things such as "innovative", "striking", "emotional", "meaningful", and "moving". I learned so much at this exhibition: who my target audience is, that there are people out there who do connect with and understand my vision, and that I should never stop creating new work. Those that purchased my images did not buy to adorn their walls, but to own a piece that would inspire and be as important and meaningful to them as it was to me in its creation. I am so thankful to be a part of that.

Updates!

2008-04-14T09:00:00.005-04:00

I visited Virginia Intermont College this past Friday as a guest lecturer, and I had such a wonderful time! It was so nice to be back in Bristol and spend some time with my former instructors... I had forgotten how beautiful that region is, and how much I loved being a student and photographer there.

The students were extremely receptive to my lecture and slideshow, but I probably did yammer on for a little too long! Whenever I speak at things like this, I seem to find it difficult to have a decent sense of timing...

Anyway, the instructors at VI and I have made an agreement to not let so much time go by without visiting again. They will be having a class called "Experimental Photography" this coming Fall, and have asked if I would like to come in and teach a mini-workshop on some of my own experimental processes. So that will be very exciting for me! The absolute BEST part of teaching art is the hands-on time spent in the studio with the students.

I am also finalizing all the crazy details for the upcoming Artist Project in Chicago. I have spent countless hours matting and framing my artwork, preparing new literature, and packing for the big event. We will be hitting the road at the crack of dawn a week from today, and I cannot wait!

But, before I leave, I will finally be meeting my clients for a late May wedding! Taunya and I have spoken soooo much by phone and email, and I am really looking forward to meeting her and her fiance, Mark. They will be getting married at the beautiful High Hampton Inn in Cashiers, NC. We will be meeting up this Saturday for the all-important pre-wedding meeting to discuss the fine details of the day, scout the location, go over their album options, etc. We will also use the later part of the day (when the light is just right) for some overdue engagement photographs! Most importantly, however, this will just be a great opportunity for me to get to know them better, and hopefully make them feel at ease with me as their photographer.

I Love Penland!

2008-03-05T09:04:00.004-05:00

Just received an email a few days ago from one of the Program Directors at Penland... They have asked if i would be interested in teaching a new highschool arts program (through Mayland Community College) in photography at Penland School of Crafts. The class is designed to give these local students highschool and college credit in art, an understanding of the methods and materials of photography, and exposure to the larger arts community of the Penland area. The class is a 4 week session next Fall, and i am trying desperately to arrange my schedule to make it happen!

If you're not familiar with Penland School, please visit their website to learn more! I have been affiliated with it for many years now, and it has such a special place in my heart...

Packing It All Up For Chicago's "The Artist Project"

2008-03-03T13:51:00.009-05:00

The results are in! I applied last Fall to be an artist in the juried international exhibition and sale in Chicago's The Artist Project, and I just recently received notice that I have been selected!

The Artist Project is part of Chicago's ARTROPOLIS, a citywide celebration of arts, antiques, and culture. The Artist Project is dedicated to the independent artist and will feature original work from a juried selection of 300 established and emerging artists who are currently not gallery represented. There will be a preview opening from 6-9 p.m. on Thursday, April 24, and the show will run daily through Monday, April 28. To learn more about The Artist Project, visit their website www.theartistproject.com.

If you're in Chicago, please come by my booth and say hello! Also, one of my old friends from grad school and a photographer and professor I admire beyond words has also been selected, so I'm thrilled that we can be a part of this together! Check out his work here.

Upcoming Lecture at Virginia Intermont College

2008-03-03T13:21:00.004-05:00

I just received a phone call a few weeks ago from one of my first photography teachers from Virginia Intermont College, Jay Phyfer, who is the head of their highly respected Photography and Digital Imaging Program. He has invited me to be a guest lecturer/visiting artist! I am so honored to return to my alma mater- the school where I received my 1st degree in photography and the program that guided and helped me find my place in graduate school and beyond. I will be speaking about my personal work as an artist, the benefits of graduate school, teaching, and making a living as an artist. It is scheduled for Friday, April 11 at 3 p.m. in the Recital Hall located within the Fine Arts Center at VIC. Can't wait!!! For more info on the photo program, visit their very cool website.

Exhibition at the Center for Fine Art Photography

2008-02-05T11:38:00.000-05:00

A photograph from my documentary work was chosen for a juried exhibition this month! The show is entitled, "Planes, Trains, & Automobiles," and will be held at the Center For Fine Art Photography at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Fort Collins, CO. I have donated the photograph to the Center, and it will become a part of their permanent collection. The image was made on the busy streets of Varanasi, India, and depicts a woman cradling her tiny infant while riding on the back of her husband's bicycle in the middle of chaotic Indian traffic. The exhibition runs through February 23. To see a slideshow of all selected works for the show, please click here. For more information on the Center, please visit their website, www.c4fap.org.

New Blog!

2008-01-31T11:41:00.000-05:00

I am so excited about my new blog! This is a great way for me to let everyone know what's going on on a weekly (hopefully) basis, and to just allow me to journal about my work and new business.

Speaking of new business... this is quite a change from what I have been up to the past several years. After the Masters Degree in Fine Arts (Photography) and teaching at East Carolina University and Pitt Community College, I am now taking the leap into the "business" side of imaging. I have so much experience with the art and craft of photography and realizing my own personal visions within this medium, but very little experience working with the Client. I know, however, that all of this will undoubtedly set me apart and allow me to offer a much different and personal experience for my new customers.

But I do not plan on leaving all of the teaching behind! I really enjoy this part of my life, and I feel it also makes me a stronger artist. There are a few schools I am looking into... can't mention any names just yet, but I will be back into the classroom very soon......

Portraits of Anais

2008-01-31T10:12:00.001-05:00

Anais is a massage therapist located here in Asheville, and received a portrait session as a gift for her birthday. Our first session was in her home, a fantastic apartment with exposed brick walls and great views of downtown.

Whenever I create a portrait, it is really important to me to get to know the client on a deeper level and understand his or her personality. There are so many ways an image can be made-- there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach! This is why I enjoy location work so much; it allows us to explore one's essence rather than just their physical appearance.

There were 2 images out of this first shoot that really struck me as being "Anais." She is very open, quiet, kind, warm, and spiritual, which I feel shows in this first image. Then there is the therapist side of her, which, I think is more than just a job for Anais; it is definitely a part of who she is. The second image is my interpretation of this. Somewhat literal, yes, but demonstrating her openness and healing ways.

During this session, I used a Hasselblad 500c/m and PlusX film. The meditation image was photographed through a handmade filter. They are printed by hand on Ilford fiber papers. Our next session will be at the Biltmore Estate where I will probably shoot with my Tachihara 5x7 Field Camera. Look for these soon!