Tag: Mural

The Empire Strikes a Chord.

Art, Exploring, Street Photography, Travel, Travel Photography

After finishing a hefty brunch at Washington DC’s Union Market, we took a much-needed walk and explored the surrounding area. On the tail end of our journey, we found ourselves navigating a somewhat edgy alleyway that featured some exciting art and murals. I came across this Stormtrooper launching a mushroom into an awaiting group of teammates or an unsuspecting crown. Throughout my travels, I’ve encountered countless odes to Star Wars characters. However, my interest in the rapidly widening franchise has waned considerably. I still hold a special place in my heart for the original trilogy.

A Tribute to Tupac

Art, Closure, Graffiti, Hip Hop, Street Photography

As I turned on the news Friday night, the news of the New York City flood was interrupted with the report of the arrest of a suspect in Tupac Shakur’s September, 1996 murder. I was working nights at a West Village record store at the time. It was only days later when working on a portfolio with an aspiring model when I came across this just erected monument. Viewing the news report and locating this old imageI reminded me how much of an influence his words meant to and influenced me. How, more than twenty years after his murder, I never thought I’d see a day where we approached a sense of justice and closure. Only time will tell if the evidence found will bring a conviction, but this announcement brings us closer to the truth.

Documenting Your Surroundings.

Canon R6 Mark II Mirrorless, Commentary, Documentary, Documentary Photography, Interpreting Art, Landscape Photography, Travel, Travel Photography

Over the years, it’s become crystal clear that my wife is my staunchest critic and supporter. However, adding her to the creative aspect of it all is both a major distraction and a pain in the fucking ass. As someone who has become more of a landscape and street photographer in recent years. My wife is, more than often, right by my side. Whether it be asking a million question as to what attracts me to a subject or being over protective to my history of risky attempts of capturing a moment. A good example would be yesterdays trip to Richmond and my fascination with photographing many of the downtown murals.When asked about “Photographing other peoples art.” and, basically hijacking someone’s creative energy. When my explanation of both documenting and interpreting my surroundings didn’t communicate the intended message. Explaining that my approach and goal while when shooting is to document the artists work respectfully. While also interpreting and conceptualizing in my own way. Why that might some like bull cookies to many. It’s how I do.

The Notorious R.B.G.

Documentary Photography, Street Photography
The Notorious Ruth Bader Ginsburg mural. Annapolis, Maryland

During our time here, my wife and me have been doing our share of exploring areas that are, by all means, new to us. If you’re like me. There a few things as enjoyable as experiencing something for the first time. Back in November of 2022. We took a trip to Annapolis, Maryland to soak up the sites and history of the storied city. During the day we ate at a Diner that reminded us of the many greasy spoons we frequented while living in New York City and New Jersey. Spent time on the docks and admired the culture and architecture of the historic area. I took a picture of this mural honoring Supreme Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg before heading home.

Tupac Mural L.E.S.

Art, Culture, Graffiti, Memories, NYC, Street Photography

Going through old slides, I found this image of a Tupac Shakur memorial mural that appeared shorty after his still unsolved murder in Los Angeles. Over the years I’ve come to love, and respect Tupac’s legacy to hip hop and life in general. Looking back, I’m grateful for making an effort to protect my slides and negatives.

Parting Shots

Street Photography

Any trip to Olympia means stopping at Old School Pizza for a sit down, slice or three and a celebration of wall to wall 80’s culture. Whether I’m hungry or not. There’s always room enough for pizza, a fountain soda and a few quarters for Pac-Man. And while I usually leave my camera packed away in the trunk of the car. I sometimes bring my phone with me in case I want to capture a moment. Today was the “in case” as I pulled out my iPhone to take a few shots of both the interior and the totally awesome Marvel Comics mural in the adjacent parking lot.

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Tattoos and dirty napkins

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“Be sure to write something before returning to your pizza.

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Despite not collecting comics since the fourth grade. I could name everyone pictured in this mural along with their super powers.

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I was happy to see that Moon Knight made the cut.

Work in Progress

Art, Graffiti

As much as I enjoy spending the day admiring art of any kind. Being able to  watch it in progress take my admiration and appreciation to new heights.Control-3 For, as important  the finished product remains.                 The creative process is where the soul lies. In the handful of times I’ve seen a work in progress or installation. I’ve found myself somewhat transfixed in awe. With graffiti and murals being my first exposure to art. Watching a piece go up on the wall can bring chills. On this particular summer day at Asbury Park. I became a bit restless after a few hours on the sand. My decision to head back to the boardwalk to stretch my legs was a good one. Watching her admire her own work as she applied little touch ups was just an added bonus.