All that’s Gold doesn’t Glitter

In an earlier post, I discussed the history of sepia toning and its use in the early days of photography. Before I started sepia toning my gelatin silver prints, I used one of two different toners that enhanced tonal quality and archival (longevity) properties of black and white prints. Most of the time, I immerseContinue reading “All that’s Gold doesn’t Glitter”

The Color of Memory

Until recently, I wasn’t aware of the reason sepia-toned photographs. I learned the reason was not purely aesthetic. Early photographic papers weren’t very stable, and the process of sepia toning added a protective layer that improved the longevity and durability of photographs. The fact that so many of these photographs still exist, nearly 100 years later, is proof that the toning process was successful.

In Like a Lion and Out Like a Daffodil

Like spring, the Yellow Daffodil represents new beginnings, happiness, rejuvenation, and hope. This member of the Narcissus family sports a sunshiny bloom that foretells the beauty and warmth of spring, which arrives on March 20 this year.

Lumen Prints–A Paradox?

The creation of lumen prints is somewhat of a paradox because these beautiful color prints are made with the black & white photo paper that I use to print my photographs from film in the darkroom.

It’s a Really BIG Show

Many of my friends and I often try to get into a couple of local visual arts exhibitions. I’ve been accepted into both of them at different times, but never during the same year. Lawndale Art Center, one of the two exhibition sponsors, recently announced their call for entry for the 2024 BIG Show. I was accepted into their 2023 juried exhibition and enjoyed my eight-month relationship that ended with an auction and brunch at their facility.

It’s a FOTOFestival!

March in Houston marks the start of Bluebonnets and spring festivals. On alternate years, it’s also the year of FotoFest. This year’s theme is Critical Geography, and I’m fortunate that I’m associated with two organizations that are serving as Participating Spaces.

Rest Stop, On the Road Again

This image was printed from film in a traditional wet darkroom. Following printing, it was bleached and hand-toned in sepia toner. This framed print is part of the Progress/Progresso exhibition at Silver Street Studios.

Curators and Jurors in the Making

Several weeks ago, a young woman walked into my studio with a couple of her friends. We chatted for a few minutes about my art, and then she told me that she’d like to borrow one of my pieces for an art exhibition at Houston Christian University (formerly, Houston Baptist University). Artists are frequently onContinue reading “Curators and Jurors in the Making”