Featured Artist: Amy Chastin

(as always, do not copy + paste this feature or repost elsewhere, share the URL or website with others...anything else is stealing and not giving me proper credit.)

Feature can ALSO be viewed here--- on the MC7C myspace blog!

http://www.myspace.com/monochromatic7cities


Bio:
Business Moniker: Mooncatcher Creations
Hometown and Current City: Virginia Beach, Virginia
Age: 26
Online store: www.mooncatchercreations.etsy.com
Upcoming Events: None scheduled at the moment but working on making my circuit debut!




Describe your work to someone who has never seen it before.

My style and personal aesthetic still has much growing to do. I was very artsy as a kid but it wasn’t until the end of 2008 that I started creating again. I started out with a simple elegant aesthetic but I am now foraying more into making the statement pieces that I’ve wanted to make from the jump.

What do you find visually stimulating right now? Any local artists that we need to keep an eye on?

My inspiration tends to come organically and spontaneously. I’m constantly saturating my senses with my environment whether doing so with music, inspirational images, reading, meditation, etc. As far as untapped artists I guess I’d have to throw a shout out to the pagan circuit for which your average person is going to know nothing about but there is a great community of local artists within it. The artists on that circuit tend to be very eclectic but I’ve seen some pretty incredible artists from all over at events such as May Moon, Earthweavers, and Pagan Pride Day @ Bayville Farms. In between the festivals, you can also find much of this type of art at Mystic Moon on Military highway.




What other artists or movements inform your work/aesthetics/sensibilities?

I march to the beat of my own whacked out drummer which may be why I have no developed personal aesthetic yet. I just sort of create it as I feel it whatever "it" may be at the time. I do take a lot of inspiration from Wendy Russell and Jennifer Perkins. I love how they've taken arts and crafts and made it youthful and relevant to modern day decor. Strictly speaking jewelry making I'd undoubtedly say I am awe inspired by artists like Tatiana van Iten. Her bead working skills are absolutely incredible to the point that her jewelry is not jewelry; they are wearable works of art.

If there were no financial limits whatsoever for you, what constraints would you most like to overstep? Are there other mediums you would explore?

If money were no issue then I would love to put together a studio so I could dabble in all sorts of art projects. My goal is to become an artsy jack of all trades not just stuck in one facet of art. I'd love to take a stab at painting, maybe even make furniture or just reclaim and refurbish pieces in a modern, funky way. I've always wanted to make a vintage paned glass window table or wall hanging.




Did you grow up in Virginia? (If not, when / why did you move here?)

Yes. In such a transient city, I am one of those people who was born, bred, and has stayed in Virginia Beach my entire life.

Do you do gallery shows?

Patronizing them the but unfortunately I have not yet done any vending. Thus far I've been pretty timid about my work. My style is one that is still evolving so I don't have the confidence and signature style that many local artists have.



What is your current favorite creation?

Probably the rhinestone seahorse necklace with the light blue resin beads. It's a more bold statement sort of piece and is the closest I've come to satisfaction with my work. It also to me in a simple way encompasses things I love, the beach, rhinestones, gemstones, and big baubles lol.

How much do you think hype affects the public perception of what good art is?

I think hype and marketing can be everything when it comes to the public's perception of good art. However, what is "good art" anyways? It is completely subject to the observer’s interpretation. From a personal standpoint, even if one doesn't like the style or piece, you have to appreciate and respect the fact that someone felt creation inside and took the time and the effort to manifest something that is an extension of them to be put out for public scrutiny.



Last CD bought, downloaded or stole?

Ok I bet this will be way out of left field. I downloaded the Midnight Express soundtrack to add to my Giorgio Moroder mp3 collection. Electro-heads and Scarface sampling hip hop producers know your roots to the man that is Giorgio Moroder lol.

Why do you think so many people spend money on music but don't buy much REAL art?

I think it's just a matter of the consumer minded mentality of these United States. We are used to getting mass produced goods for cheap. Especially in these hard times paying extra for quality art is not important while having music that gets us moving through the day is always going to be worth investing in to the average person. However it goes even further than that. I think many people simply don't know there's a flourishing local art scene that would probably speak to them and right at their fingertips either at a local venue or on the internet. With 1 million registered users, websites like Etsy are a wonderful asset to the thriving artist and hopefully awareness will continue to grow in the mainstream.

How do you think the local scene is doing? How would you change it?

The local scene always has its ups and downs whether it's music, art, or both. I think it was lulling for a while and really kind of still is. But there's a strong base there and I always remain hopeful that it will boom.



Last Book you read?

Again way out of left field and some who know me might keel over when I say this but I've actually been reading parts of the Bible. I am almost 27 years old and have NEVER read it before so I picked up one at my local Dollar Tree lol.



What's your favorite local restaurant to eat at?

I patron many local eateries so it's very hard to pick just one. But if I had to then I guess I'd have to say Beach Bully. I've been going there since I was a kid and when I wasn't my Dad was usually bringing it home once or twice a month. They're funny, friendly people there and the food is so good (Superbully platter w/ mac n cheese and French fries please). On top of which their buy one get one free coupons are the deal!

Quote us your favorite song lyrics. (please include who it is by)

My favorite song lyrics are relative to what is currently going on in my life. Today the following particularly resonated with me as I listened ...

"I want to live where soul meets body. And let the sun wrap its arms around me. And bathe my skin in water cool and cleansing. And feel, feel what its like to be new" (Soul Meets Body by Death Cab for Cutie)




What's your worst habit?

Procrastinating. I always get what I need done by the time and date it needs to be done by. But I am definitely a terrible procrastinator even though I so don't want to be!

What irritates you?

Inconsiderate people and habitual liars.



What has been your greatest success?

By far being a Mother is my greatest success. I have an incredibly bright daughter who lights me up inside like the 4th of July.



What has been your greatest setback?

My greatest setback was definitely the 1 - 2 punch of leaving my job of over 2 years in August (the timing, not that I left) and then having my fiancé/father of my child leave ME not too long after. In the beginning I couldn't even fathom creating again. However I am currently experiencing a surplus of inner creativity not just with my jewelry making but also expanding into general projects. I see potential in everything now.

The business side of being an artist: how do you market/promote yourself, and does it work? How do you cope?

I've been treading very softly as far as putting myself out there. I've sold mostly to family, friends, and co-workers so far. I also have an Etsy store which I promote on occasion and have had a couple of sales. In 2010 though I have a new found confidence in my work and am enthusiastic to put myself out there by vending events and generally getting a little exposure.





What came first, the art or the misery? Explain.

Art is misery and misery is art. I think some of the best art is born from misery either while experiencing it or the happiness that comes from surviving the plight of misery. So in my opinion the two are tightly linked.

What do you think of what MC7C does? How would you make it better? Have you been to any of our events?

Anyone who has the stick-with-it-ness to be a local promoter, especially in this area, is a rock star in my eyes. The only thing I could say to make it better is get a street team because I'm sure it's a lot for one person to handle alone! I've been to art shows in the past but admittedly I can't recall if they were MC7C events or not. However I will certainly be in attendance at future events.


http://www.youtube.com/v/tmO4Sz7hL3g&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0xcc2550&color2=0xe87a9f

Artist: Jeannine Peregrine

The following feature was conducted and is now presented by the MC7C duo. Do Not copy+paste this elsewhere! Direct link to it!

Self-written bio

My name is Jeannine Peregrine (sounds like Janeen Pair-a-grin) and I am a mid-thirty-something Southern Californian transplanted in Suffolk married to a soon-to-be-retired U.S. Marine. We have no kiddies, just two kitties.

Two days a week I am a bookkeeper in Franklin, the rest of the time I'm a self-taught, mixed media collage artist, writer, blogger, and housewife.

My artwork has been published in national magazines and independent zines including Altered Couture and Somerset Studio, in the book 1,000 Artists' Journal Pages, the forthcoming book Exhibition 36, and exhibited in local art galleries.

I love reading, cookies, and old movies.

Interview

How long have you been creating? What got you started doing art?

I've always made things. I remember when I was a little girl, pulling a chair up in front of the TV and playing with scissors, paste, paper, and crayons. I always had art supplies - crayons, paper, paints, tape - and I loved coloring books, writing little stories, painting little pictures. We always had art class in grade school so I was exposed to all kinds of arts and crafts. When I got to high school, I didn't even consider taking art as an elective because I couldn't draw realistically (something that, sadly, many people think disqualifies them from being an artist). Art then became something I did as an afterthought. After high school, I got into rubber stamping and making greeting cards and eventually that evolved into collage, mixed media, and art journals all of which I've been doing for eight years.

Describe your work to someone who has never seen it before.

I create collages on paper, canvas, and occasionally fabric, using all kinds of media, including paints, colored pencils, oil pastels, pencil, tissue paper, and vintage papers. Focal points for my work are primarily copies of old photos from a lovingly tended collection of vintage photos I find on ebay and in antique stores. I love to work with old photos because the figures in them are always blank faced (from standing for long periods of time while waiting for the photographer to set up and take the picture). These blank faces allow me to project my own stories and context onto them. Most of my pieces feature individual, solitary figures. I love to combine the old photos and papers with simple drawings.

I would hate to pin down my "style" but I exist comfortably on both whimsical and introspective (darker) planes. I am not fond of cluttered collage so I aim for simplicity and understated in most of my collage work. When I create my collages, I've always got some kind of storyline running through my head as I work. I hope the viewer can catch a thread of that story without me having to whack them on the head with it.

I also keep a visual journal which is exactly what it sounds like - a journal with a focus on imagery and expression.

Lastly, I work with doll photography, specifically photographing a doll (made back in 1972 and reissued in the last decade) called Blythe.

What do you find visually stimulating right now? Any local artists that we need to keep an eye on?

Because I've moved around a lot in recent years, I've really depended on the internet to keep connected to art and artists. Etsy.com is a tremendous place for finding new art and artists and lots of inspiration and stimulation, as is flickr.com. As for local artists, because I live in Suffolk and am involved in the arts community here, I am most knowledgeable about the artists here including Sandy Lupton, Jill Tiderman, Brenda Wright, Nancy Kinzinger, and Angelia Armstrong. Interesting works can be found at Shooting Star Gallery and The Red Thread Studio, and the Suffolk Museum all located in historic downtown Suffolk. Erik Murray, who won the Suffolk Museum's juried show last year, paints huge canvases and murals – I don't think he's from Suffolk, but he has exhibited here – I love his mermaid paintings. You may already be familiar with the creative people at 7 Cities Crafters (formerly the Norfolk Craft Mafia). On etsy.com (and at local shows), you'll find the talented crafters and artists of the Hampton Roads Artisans Street Team (HRAST).

What other artists or movements inform your work/aesthetics/sensibilities?

I am interested in and inspired by the work of Italian painter Amadeo Modigliani. His artwork is often overshadowed by the story of his short and scandalous life, but I'm not really interested in that. I am moved by his portraits which feature solitary figures staring straight ahead through the canvas, and minimal background. I like how his figures have exaggerated features such as long necks and large eyes. I also like the work of Gustav Klimt – his use of pattern and rich golden colors, not to mention the passionate subject matter. As for collage and mixed media, I am inspired by more contemporary artists such as Karenann Young; the older, collage work of Claudine Hellmuth (out of D.C.); Sarah Ahearn (of New York); Katie Kendrick (Pacific Northwest - Oregon, I think?); and the visual journals of Juliana Coles (of New Mexico).

If there were no financial limits whatsoever for you, what constraints would you most like to overstep? Are there other mediums you would explore?

If there were no financial limits, I would love to own my own gallery. I have lots of ideas and enjoy promoting and encouraging other artists, so running a gallery would be a dream come true. For my own artwork, I'd love to have a studio in the mountains or on a beach or a loft in a city, where I could spend time creating and experimenting with art supplies without feeling guilty because I don't have a "real" job. I'd love the opportunity to spend a summer at an artist's retreat or colony such as Yaddo (though with Yaddo, money isn't the object, but applying and being selected is). As for other mediums, I would love to do a really big installation piece! That would be so cool!

Did you grow up in Virginia? (If not, when / why did you move here?)

I am originally from Southern California. When I was 8, my family moved to Saudi Arabia where my Dad worked for an American company. I used to feel sad that I didn't stay in one place growing up, but now I am grateful to my parents that we got to live outside the U.S. and see different places, experience a different culture. When I was 13 we moved back to California where I lived until six years ago when my husband's job brought us to the east coast. We've lived in Virginia since late 2005 and we'd very much like to stay here, mostly because I'm lazy and don't want to move again (I hate packing and unpacking), but also because I genuinely like it here and have made really good friends.

Do you do gallery shows?

I've had a few pieces in galleries in Suffolk, but haven't participated in any shows this year. I hope to do more of that in Suffolk and elsewhere this coming year. Having my own show is definitely something I aspire to.

What is your current favorite creation?

I did this sailboat collage/illustration for Illustration Friday a few months ago. I am so pleased with it because I completely lost track of time while creating it and it features a mix of all the elements I like to use in my work (simple pencil drawing, favorite "found" papers for collage, distressed paint application).

How much do you think hype affects the public perception of what good art is?

Outside of art-centric circles, I think hype definitely affects public perception of what good art is. People are intimidated by art the way they are with poetry. Whether this is the fault of artists and poets themselves who like to feel superior, teachers, or high-brow art galleries, the general public has been made to feel stupid about art (and poetry). Hype spoon feeds people opinions about art – it takes the pressure off of the individual to state an opinion that might bring ridicule. This is sad. I also think, just generally, that our popular culture right now is very celebrity-focused and that applies to the arts as well. Human nature says people will be attracted to what's hyped - people are curious and want to know what the fuss is all about.

Last CD bought, downloaded or stole?

The last song I downloaded was L-O-V-E by Nat King Cole. For some reason I had the song in my head (not sure how it got there) and I found it on itunes in a Martini Mix playlist. It is so retro and Nat has such a smooth voice. The last CD I downloaded was Firecracker by The Wailin' Jennys. I haven't listened to the whole thing yet, but I couldn't resist a band called The Wailin' Jennys.

Why do you think so many people spend money on music but don't buy much REAL art?

Price for one thing. Let's face it, you can buy a few songs on itunes for the change you have in your pocket. Art is usually going to cost more than that. Music is also portable - you can take it with you everywhere. Art, unless it is a utilitarian piece, is something static; you may look at it everyday, but you generally aren't carrying it around with you.

People look at the prices for original art, and balk. Also I think a lot of non-artist buyers don't understand the work that goes in to creating a piece of art (which is why I'm a big fan of open studios - people can see artists working, see what goes into it).

Pricing art is really hard for most artists I know. You have to charge what the piece is worth to you (time, materials, meaning) but at the same time, some artists price their work way outside what most people can reasonably afford. I was at an art museum in the country recently and some of the paintings (oils on massive canvases) were priced at $10,000. That just isn't realistic for most people. Maybe in New York? Every artist needs to strike a balance with their pricing. The general public, on the other hand, needs to understand the difference between something that is original, one-of-a-kind, and made by hand and something pumped out by a factory overseas. There is a distinct difference and we all should be willing to pay a little more for something special. This is why I love etsy.com so much. There are so many handmade items (both fine art and utilitarian crafts) in price points to fit every budget. If you haven't seen etsy.com, go check it out. You can still shop local - just search for artists in Hampton Roads (or specific cities).

How do you think the local scene is doing? How would you change it?

I'm not well versed in the local Norfolk art scene. I live in Suffolk and find the artistic community here full of diverse talent and tons of heart – they need people to make the drive and see what they have to offer. It's interesting to me how people in other areas of Hampton Roads perceive Suffolk - as if it is in the back of beyond. It's really not. It takes me 15 minutes to get from Northern Suffolk to Ghent. If I could change anything it would be to encourage people to foster a willingness to travel out here and see what we have to offer. Suffolk is a great balance of old (architecture, history) and new (art galleries, a cultural arts center, a sushi bar, a wood-fire pizza place, a coffee place). The more support we get, the more we can change and grow and modernize and have even more to offer.

Last Book you read?

I reread Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry.

What's your favorite local restaurant to eat at?

I eat at Java 149 in downtown Suffolk at least twice a week for lunch. They recently changed ownership and have redecorated - it's roomier and lighter but still retains it's funky, casualness. And the food is really good - salads, soups, wraps, coffee! They've kept the classic Java menu items and added a lot of new ones. I {heart} Java 149. And I {heart} supporting local, independent businesses.

Quote us your favorite song lyrics. (please include who it is by)

I'm no kid in a kid's game
I did what I did, I've got no one to blame
But I don't give up, no, I don't ever give up
It's all I've got, it's my claim to fame

I'm no fighter but I'm fighting
This whole world seems uninviting
But I don't give up, no, I don't ever give up
I fall down sometimes, sometimes I come back flying

From "I Don't Ever Give Up" by Patty Griffin

What's your worst habit?

I pick my cuticles. Sorry, gross. Seriously though, my hands are all torn up from all the paint and glue and from this cuticle thing. Sadly, this means I have no future as a hand model.

What irritates you?

Being from California and living in mostly hot climates my whole life, I still find dressing for colder weather a hassle. I don't like wearing a bulky coat in the car (with the heater running) but it's too cold to not wear a coat when leaving the car, so I'm constantly putting on and taking off my coat. Sometimes I just skip a coat altogether.

What has been your greatest success?

I don't know if I've had one great success. I've been fortunate to have a lot of neat experiences and I consider them collectively a success. I've traveled to places I never thought I'd see. I've met interesting people and had the chance to share my art and creativity with other people through publishing. I'm always profoundly humbled when someone purchases artwork I've created or leaves a note on my blog. I've been married for 13 years - I consider that a success.

What has been your greatest setback?

I wasted a big chunk of time waiting for other people to validate my path in life. I'm glad I got over that, but I wish I had gotten over it sooner.

The business side of being an artist: how do you market/promote yourself, and does it work? How do you cope?

I have a shop on etsy.com where I sell my work. I promote my shop via the internet in venues such as flickr and twitter and in etsy.com's community forums. I teach classes in Suffolk and Courtland and publish articles in art/craft magazines. Placing an ad on a prominent etsy-related site yielded my best financial results, but the ad was too expensive to maintain. I also have a blog, but I don't do a lot of promoting there. All of this collectively is how I promote myself. These strategies work fairly well ... my main problem is making new and more stuff. My creativity resists being treated like a manufacturing line - I need to find a way of working that is both productive and sensitive to my creative process. I am sure I could be more aggressive, but I also have limits as to what I'm willing to do in the name of promotion. I never want to become the equivalent of the annoying Mary Kay lady who talks shop all the time and constantly throws products at people.

Being a self-taught artist can often feel isolating. Sometimes I feel like my own cheerleader. I cope pretty well - I am good at encouraging myself, but, of course, I do get discouraged. I need to learn how to ask for encouragement from others. That's hard. It feels so ... whiny and needy. The best coping tool I have is just to keep on keeping on. If I'm feeling discouraged I just set everything aside for a bit. A little time away from art usually recharges my batteries and I'm ready to dive back in.

How would like to see the local artistic community change? Or how would you like to get involved in the local artistic community?

I'll just repeat what I mentioned above which is, I'd really love to see support for the Suffolk art scene from the other cities in the area. I'd also like to see all galleries in Hampton Roads include more abstract, mixed media, folk art, and outsider art (and artists) in their shows. For me personally, I really want to spend more time exploring the art scene in Norfolk and Virginia Beach (and elsewhere, locally). I'd love to help the local art community however I am needed - happy to teach classes, review a show in my blog, bake cookies - whatever is needed, just let me know!

What is your earliest art memory?

In second grade my school had a St. Patrick's Day poster contest and I drew a poster with leprechauns frolicking under a rainbow. All the leprechauns were drinking McDonald's Shamrock Shakes! My poster took second prize. I'm still pretty thrilled about this!

How would you like to be remembered as an artist?

I can't think of anything profound to say here. I don't really care if people remember me, personally, but I hope people who purchase my work are moved by it. I hope it speaks to them in some personal way, and makes them feel something.

Weblinks

Main Website:

http://www.jeannineperegrine.com

Etsy Shop:

http://jperegrine.etsy.com

Trunkt Portfolio:

http://www.trunkt.org/jeannineperegrine

Artist: Scott Steely

The following feature was conducted and produced by the MC7C duo. Do Not copy+paste this anywhere! Direct link to it!

INTERVIEW

Are you from Virginia or did you relocate here? Where did you grow up?

No, I'm not a native Virginian; however I've lived in and around the 7 cities for the last five years including Portsmouth , Norfolk , Hampton , and Newport News . What originally brought me here like so many others is the Military. I was born in Houston , TX but moved around a lot. I have also lived in Caracas , Venezuela when I was young, and Bangkok , Thailand for about four years.

You are currently out of the country, where are you? Why?

As of right now, I am off the Coast of Trinidad, a small island in the Caribbean . Recently we have also been to Haiti , Cuba , Santo Domingo , and Curaco. The USS Kearsarge, the ship I am stationed on is currently on a mission to build relations between the United States and Central and South America . As a photographer my occupation provides me with new and interesting scenery every port of call we visit.

What have you learned about yourself being in another country?

I am curious about other cultures. I really enjoy seeing what other people do on a daily basis from other countries. For example in Europe there is an overall slower atmosphere. Rarely is anyone rushed or in a hurry to get somewhere like here in the US . In the Middle East they pray several times a day. I remember walking down the street and all of a sudden hearing loud speakers broadcasting Islamic prayers. I've learned that one of the easiest ways to fit in overseas is to try what ever the locals are eating/ drinking.

Do you have a particularly favorite (photo/ painting) you have created and why is it your favorite?

That's a tough one. I have a few that I would like to talk about actually.

The Norfolk Scope photograph is my most popular. It strikes me as very visually stimulating, and almost alien looking structure. It took a few attempts a various apertures and shutter speeds before all the aspects came together how I wanted. Sometimes overcast and generally dreary days add an omonus element to an otherwise normal photo.

"Toilets !" is a great one. My goal with this shot was to portray the most grungy, dilapidated photo I could. The rust textures are what initially attracted me to this scene. The sense of decay is almost overwhelming.

"New York Panorama" This was very technical photograph I'm proud of. I enjoyed piecing the 15 shots together as much as I did taking the actual photo. It's from a vantage point that I know not many people get to see. I attempted to capture as much as I could down to the little details to share the experience.

" Spiral Bridge " is my personal favorite. Some photographers shy away from this amount of photo manipulation, as you can see I take a different approach.

What about photography captivated your interest?

There are multiple things about photography that appeal to me. The combination of the technical aspect and creative expression are what I enjoy most about it.

What advice would you give to a person interested in becoming a professional photographer?

I wish I could, If you hear any good advice let me know...

Tell us about your experiences getting started as a professional photographer.

Promoting your art is very important. Groups like MC7C offer a great way to share your art with others. The city of Norfolk has a Cultural Affairs department that is constantly helping out local artists. The Stockley Gardens Arts Festival in the Ghent area of Norfolk comes around every May and October and is also a great way to get you artwork out.

Do you prefer working with digital or film cameras? Why?

My first Camera was an old second hand film Pentax. What I liked best about film was the final outcome was always a surprise. I remember after developing the negatives seeing what I had captured for the first time was fun for me. There are definitely some photographers who shoot exclusively in film and I admire their discipline. I on the other hand, embrace the digital darkroom. There are just so many possibilities for editing that are either very time consuming and difficult or impossible to do with an entirely analog setup.

Can you tell us about your technical process.(camera type/ photo editing programs)

Sure, this is probably my favorite part of my creative process. First, I shoot a Canon Digital Rebel STi, with a Tamron 18-250mm lens. I use a tripod about 90% of the time. There are two parts to my process, after I have determined a good candidate for photographing. I shoot almost exclusively in what is known as High Dynamic Range . The general idea is that the human eye can see a much wider range of light than the chip on a digital camera can record. Everything in photography revolves around light or the absence of it. To capture a higher light range on the camera the most common method is to take a bracket of photographs at different exposures then combine them in post processing, the second part of my method.

Once I have multiple photos of the same subject at different shutter speeds I use a few different applications to combine them. Photomatix is very good at this. I then bring the composite into Photoshop (where you can also combine photos into HDR) and adjust tonal color curves, highlights and shadows, saturation and various other parts of my pictures. I use a lot of trial and error in making adjustments and often spend upwards of a few hours tweaking the final image until I'm satisfied.

There are a number of different tutorial on this technique on the internet if you are interested in HDR.

Can you tell us about your creative process. How do you come up with ideas for photo shoots and shots?

I generally set out with a goal to take as many pictures as I can of the most interesting things that catch my eye from as many different perspectives as I can. Once I have found a composition I like, I then try as many combinations of ISO, shutter speed, and aperture until I feel that I have enough to work with. After that I sit down and sort through everything I took to find good candidates for editing.

What are predominating concerns as an artist, and how do you express them?

The interaction of man made things and natural occurring forces are very powerful images to me. How everything we own or make is in a constant state of reverting back to its original and natural form. I try to express this by capturing a moment in time where this struggle is occurring.

What do you want to photograph that you've not yet shot?

Definitely more photo shoots involving urban exploration. I'm fascinated by anything deserted, or abandoned.

Can you think of a particularly fun client or project that you've had?

Photographing Jerusalem was a great and very unique experience for me. It is one of the oldest cities in the world. Everywhere you look is history. Visually speaking there are huge contrasts in the landscape as well. One side is a barren desert the other side is a fertile valley.

What about a really boring project that you did just to pay the rent?

I'm not a huge fan of portraits. Unfortunately this is the sort of work most people would like done.

What are your present works about? How would you describe your work?

Recently I have accumulated lots of photos from the Caribbean . I have noticed that tropical landscapes complement the HDR process. It really intensifies the vegetation. It's always hard to describe your own work, but if I had to assign a word to it, it would be: hyper-reality

What other interests do you have? (besides photography)

Being a technophile I'm drawn to anything new or experimental that helps the user create something in a digital medium. I enjoy using software synthesizers like Propellerhead's Reason. Rendering scenes in various 3D programs is fun. Editing and composing short videos has been a hobby of mine for long time.

What artists have influenced you, and how?

Trey Ratcliff aka "Stuck in Customs" and Ben Willmore in my opinion are two of the best HDR photographers I have seen. This type of image was largely unheard of ten years ago and it's people like these that are bringing this art form mainstream.

Any local artists or bands we need to check out?

Mensura is a pretty cool death metal band I heard at Budda's Place last year. I wish I could remember more. It's been a while since I've been to any events.

What's the most played song on your iPod (or an equivalent music playing device) in the past week?

I have a fairly large amount of MP3s, and I usually keep my iPod on random. I recommend a group called Birdy Nam Nam. Depending on my mood I will listen to anything from some great Drum and Bass like Photek to something more mellow and mainstream like the Raconteurs.

What came first, the art or the misery? Explain.

They came at the same time. They paradoxily coexist and are intertwined. It all depends on who's point of view is in question and at what time. With that being said I don't think Van Goe or Picasso would have been happy and well adjusted if they had chosen a different career like used car salesman. Their misery inspired them to create masterpieces. On the other hand who's to say that creating the art itself was not miserable for them?

What do you think of what MC7C does? How would you make it better? Have you been to any of our events?

I think MC7C is great initiative for local artists. They are helping bring cultural awareness to the area as well as helping local artists. It's a win win situation for everyone. The only way I would improve MC7C is by increasing the audience size and diversity by promoting more. I have not been to any events yet but I plan to in the very near future.

LINKS

Scott Steely's flickr page

Artist: Paula Burgoon

The following feature was conducted and produced by the MC7C duo. PLEASE, do not copy+paste this into your page. Direct link to it!

And now, Paula Burgoon.


:INTERVIEW:



Are you from Virginia or did you relocate here? Where did you grow up?

I am not from Virginia. I am actually a Navy wife. I grew up in the Twin Cities - went to college in Madison, WI. I have also lived in MI, FL, OK, MS, and CA. Norfolk is the best so far, however. But deep down inside I believe I have never lived in my hometown. I think I belong in Amsterdam or in NYC.



Do you have a particularly favorite (photo/ painting) you have created and why is it your favorite?

TOUGH question. I fall in love with many of my photos, hence my blog name, Crushaholic. And, just as quickly as I fall in love, I also quickly get bored. Only the best of the best remain my favorite over time. I suppose I have a list of 25 or so that are in that easily category - maybe even more. This particular shot of the birds half a block from Times Square is my current favorite shot. It was a quick-thinking snap but those birds really caught my eye. I adore the Stomp sign and tall buildings. Even in New York City the birds hang out in large groups. Technically, the precision and sharpness of my latest lens purchase blow me away in this shot. I believe this one will span the test of time in my book...

What about photography captivated your interest?

I have spent much of my adult life living in the shadow of my very successful husband. Following him from duty station to duty station, putting up with his unpredictable schedule, and spending YEARS of my married life alone as he is deployed forced me to put my own dreams and aspirations aside in the beginning. But as he felt glory in his work (he is an F/A-18 pilot) I felt invisible in the background. It was harder and harder to find happiness in every day life compared with a man who was living his dream. That dichotomy became unbearable. Photography was something I could do for myself. But I had to tear it out of myself. I originally started with photography quite a while back while in my early 20's but never knew what on Earth to shoot. The idea of it was fantastic but I was completely paralyzed and afraid to experiment. Film, developing, money were always an issue. When my son was born, I became the classic 'Mom With a Camera'. It really opened the door for me to practice. I always had a model and could spend hours experimenting and playing with my digital images. What started as something fun and something I seemed to have an 'eye' for quickly grew into obsession. I knew I was getting somewhere fabulous when I decided to start shooting things that did not have a model in them. That is where my true art lies. How do I now explain what I love about photography? I love to look at the very same thing as everyone else with my naked eye and yet see it in a completely different and magical way through my lens. I guess you could say that at the root of my art --- I love to make something out of nothing. But if nothing else, I love being very, very good at something. It is wonderful to be proud of my creations. Even if I am not saving the world from terrorists I am enhancing our world with beauty.

What advice would you give to a person interested in becoming a professional photographer?

Figure out what kind of photographer do you want to be. A technical and business-oriented photographer? or an artist? or the gray area in between? The advice for each is very different. I find most of the photographers I know fall into the technical and business oriented side. I truly cannot speak for what it takes to be a technical and business-oriented photographer. I can offer advice if your driving force is to create beautiful art and you would like to work your way toward the gray area in between:

Master your craft. With the availability of digital cameras these days, it seems EVERYONE fancies themselves a photographer. It takes more than a handle on the technical aspects to create a truly remarkable photograph.
Don't buy a camera with the intention of earning the money back to justify the expense. This is a pitfall I see many people make. Admit that this is not a cheap hobby but one worth investing in. Do it because you love it.
Learn your camera inside and out. Don't be afraid of it. But expect that it will take a long time to be comfortable and that is okay.
Learn everything you can - reading books, online classes, practice, practice, practice.
Once you have it, guard your talent. People will eat you up if you let them. Everyone wants something for free.
Experiment. Try new and crazy ideas.
Start small and let it grow. It takes a lot of work - a lot of practice - a lot of dedication - to make your work stand out from the crowd.
Dig deep. Learn about who you are and what you love.
Never emulate someone elses style. Find your own.
Learn what makes a photograph technically correct. Once you know that, get out of the box.
View lots and lots of other photographs and determine what about it makes it interesting and successful.
Share your work. Being an artist without an audience is very lonely.
Don't be afraid to be different.
Follow your heart.

Quite frankly what I would rather do is teach clients to see the difference between mundane technical work and beautiful artistic work. If only more people appreciated it.

Tell us about your experiences getting started as a professional photographer.

I just did it. I jumped in and did it. I am not sure that was the right way. I put a lot of unnecessary pressure on myself at the beginning and I have faced some heartache over the years. Taking photos of other people was a very scary step that I had to overcome. I still get nervous every time. But I follow my heart and to me that is vital. My goal is not to become rich or to create a lifestyle-sustaining business. My goal is to find who I am through my art and make some money so I can keep expanding my horizons. Hopefully the world will find what I have to share interesting. It is a scary path and one that is quite different than the average business oriented photographer. Only I can find the right answers for ME.

Do you prefer working with digital or film cameras? Why?

I use digital digital digital. I love digital. It totally meshes with my off-the-cuff reactionary and experimental style of photography. I love to respond to what I see, take the image back to my computer and apply whatever effects I find necessary to make the image really POP. I have played with Holgas in the past and I adore the look they have. But ultimately I am a geeky computer digital girl. Manipulating my digital work to emulate the bits and pieces I have seen is ultimately my goal.

Don't believe anyone who suggests digital is cheaper. I have spent amazing amounts of cash on computers, displays, software, hard drives, memory, etc. The beauty of digital is that there are no dollars ticking with each snap of the shutter. Guilt-free experimentation and immediate feedback. If I didn't have digital I don't believe I would have the guts to snap photos behind me while I ride a bike on vacation.

Can you tell us about your technical process.(camera type/ photo editing programs)

Technical perfection is NOT the key to my photography. It is merely a piece of the bigger puzzle. With that in mind I happen to shoot with some of the industry's top of the line equipment. I use the Nikon D3 and wide angle lenses most of the time. My most recent purchase was the Nikon 14-24mm 2.8 lens. It is phenomenal. However, what I loved the most about one of my previous wide angle lenses was its technical IMPERFECTIONS. I also love using lensbabies. I prefer to use natural light when I am on location although I have created a studio space in my home where I dabble with lighting and backdrops. I shoot in RAW as it is incredibly forgiving. Attempting to nail the exposure straight out of the camera is vital but when the scene is unfolding quickly it is not always possible. One of the most important things I have done is create a workflow of actions in photoshop to handle my images. I try to maintain a certain continuity to them. I process each image one by one to achieve my 'look' but I tend to do the same thing to every photo. I believe that you MUST be a computer geek to be a successful digital photographer. Digital just doesn't cut it straight out of the camera and quite frankly, half the fun is doing 'cool stuff' in photoshop for me. Often I take my technically-perfect photo and manipulate it to look as though it was taken with an old beat up plastic camera!

Can you tell us about your creative process. How do you come up with ideas for photo shoots and shots?

My favorite work is travel and city photography. I go into my zone. My best ideas usually pop into my head and I am executing them seconds later. I am a very spontaneous person. I tend to respond to what I see versus planning in advance. I do have certain locations I like to go as I know they will be a sure thing for lighting for portrait shoots. But when I am shooting for myself I love to wander around and just snap at whatever catches my eye. I am always on the look out for fabulous light or interesting color. For me this is a wonderful way to keep my technical edge razor sharp. On the streets the light is forever changing. You have to act fast to get the right image. It is excellent practice for learning to quickly nail your exposure each time.

What are predominating concerns as an artist, and how do you express them?

Over the years, THE most important thing in my work is breaking out of the group. Pushing the limits and pushing myself to get better and better. Whether I am taking photos of clients or taking photos for myself my goal is to make my photos ME - make them recognizable. Something about ME goes into everything I do. I think I was the last person to realize I had achieved this. In fact, I found myself stunned to hear that I was successful in creating a style.

What do you want to photograph that you've not yet shot?

I dream of travel/street work - For year and years I had dreamed of going to Paris and to NYC. I have seen both of those cities in the past 4 months. But I did not get enough. I am ready to go back! I now dream of going everywhere! More cities! More places! I am strongly pushing for my husband's next set of orders to be in Germany. With that I plan to travel all over Europe on the weekends. You never know - maybe after three years in Europe I will do something similar in Asia.....

Can you think of a particularly fun client or project that you've had?

Of course, anything that involves street work is my favorite but so far I haven't found a way to market it. ;-) In terms of paying jobs, I did commercial photos for a client who sews vintage aprons named Sassy Smox. This is actually one of the few concept projects I have ever done and it was a blast! I loved the freedom to be creative. The models (the client and her family) were perfect and we had a great time creating the 'desperate housewife' shots.

What about a really boring project that you did just to pay the rent?

I haven't had any 'boring' projects as I am very particular about what type of work I will accept. With that in mind, just about anything that involves posing happy families is totally outside my personal taste..... Product photography is pretty boring, also.



What are your present works about? How would you describe your work?

Most of my images have a sense of 'time and place'. They also feel a little dreamy. I snap shots of unexpected beauty and gorgeous light. I adore taking the photo that everyone else walked passed. Because of my introverted-nature and off-the-cuff style I tend to seek deeper significance in my images AFTER they have been taken. It is almost as though my subconscious has a plan while out snapping which it has to share later with the rest of me! I love to sit and study them on the screen after the fact and tie them together based on my personal experiences. Most of my work revolves around my experience in the world - seeking out my own creative spirit. However, my current project deals with smoke and mirrors - the false front that I see so many people hide behind.

What other interests do you have? (besides photography)

I tend to only focus on a couple of things at a time. And, I am the mom of a 'spirited' 6 year old which is rather amazing and exhausting. And, as I mentioned I am a navy wife so I am often a single parent. Between photography and parenting and home-owning, most of my attention is taken. However, I love to run, bike, travel, decorate, read.

What artists have influenced you, and how?

Henri Carter-Bresson and David Hockney are the biggest names I can put with my influence. Henri's brilliance in adding the human touch is always going through my head as I shoot. And, Hockey's composites blow me away. I am a book hound and I own lots of books on photography, graphic design, and crafts. My ultimate favorite book so far is called Elements of Photography by Angela Faris Belt and features quite a number of stunningly AMAZING photographers. She is one of the very few authors who is writing on that wonderful gray area between technical and artistic photography. I adore her influence and the artists she has chosen to feature. It makes me so happy I can almost cry. In the end, I admit that the daily inspiration I get from thousands of nameless artists on flickr are ultimately my biggest influence. Scanning through the images in 'Explore' and finding which ones pop out at me has pushed me to create better and better work, myself.





What do you think of the current trend of tattooed, alternative nearly (or fully) naked models such as Suicide Girls or various other alterna sites? Do you think it has a negative or positive effect on photography?

I honestly had to google it to know what it was. Much of what I saw from a photographic point of view was fascinating and beautiful although I am 35 so that makes me 15 years past the age this is geared toward. I love the look of grunge and tattoos in photographs and I have seen it done beautifully in the past by other artists. I would suggest this site doesn't have a positive OR negative effect on PHOTOGRAPHY as a whole. It just IS. I would be more concerned about the effect is has on young girls than photography. It is very hard to grow up as a confident woman in our society and I believe that expanding what is considered beautiful is fabulous. However, a few of the over-sexed up photos remind me that many women only feel they are beautiful if they are being sexual. There is a fine line between artistic and trashy, edgy and feeding voyeurism. By putting a name and philosophy about the girls I feel it cheapens the overall feel of the site - as if it is a store and I get to buy one of them. I find that distasteful. And, while I do not believe it is *wrong* to cross this line, I feel it sums up empty American consumerism. It saddens me. I only hope the girls are doing it for the right reasons and that their experience as a model is truly feeding their spirit.



Any local artists or bands we need to check out?

One of the most talented photographers I have met, Rich-Joseph Facun (http://facun.com), actually took a well-known photo of my son. After meeting him I googled him and discovered his work that is not affiliated with the Virginian-Pilot. It is stunning. However, he recently relocated to Dubai!
Another VERY talented photographer I have met moonlights as a furniture salesman at EQ3 in MacArthur. Paul Jeffreys PaulJeffreysphoto.com
I have a friend who has just started making hand-crafted clay jewelry. Her work is bold and beautiful. I adore it. I actually did some photos for her.



What's the most played song on your iPod (or an equivalent music playing device) in the past week?

I will admit I have been sitting in silence more often than not. I have had a lot going on lately - angst in the household - and I just feel I need peace so I may relax. I have even been turning my iPod in my car off!!!! which is unheard of, in my opinion. But the song going through my head the most lately has been 'Let Go' by FrouFrou.



What came first, the art or the misery? Explain.

OH the misery!! for sure! I swear I have had so much angst built up inside that is trying to be heard and be understood and shared and needs to get out! Years ago I used to sit on my couch almost CRYING not knowing how to get my angst out! Only in the past months do I truly feel like I have my look and style where I want it. But I am always growing and changing and learning. I realize I have a LOT to learn and I am only now daring to venture into new territory. I am sure what I will be producing years down the line will feel ultimately like what I was meant to create and what I am doing now is just dabbling until the real inspiration comes!



What do you think of what MC7C does? How would you make it better? Have you been to any of our events?

I think MC7C is fantastic! What a wonderful service to the art community. Norfolk has a lot of growing to do in this department and I am thankful for MC7C for leading the way!

LINKS

Paula Burgoon online