My ‘off kilter’ digital world

It’s been an awkward time, my world has been a bit off kilter… My steady, reliable iMac crashed some months ago. After a month or so; Apple managed to get it all sorted, rebuilding the machine ~ I basically was walking out of the Apple Store with a brand new machine. In the midst of this month long headache, I had a MAJOR file clean up in process. 1TB of digital art needed to be fine tuned into my organization system, backed up and deleted from the iMac hard drive to free up some space for NEW creations.

Pro Tip: invest time upfront creating a well structured maintainable workflow and organizational system for ALL digital files. 

I put my creating on a wee hiatus, because:

1) sadly, the stress of this all had blocked my creativity

2) I was adamant about not loading any more data onto an already overloaded machine and once it was more of a manageable workload THEN I would be free to add more to my collection.

So, I just about get my files all organized, at least to a more manageable state and I am feeling really great about my accomplishment, like I can breathe again because I know I have a pretty good system coming along and backed up and yessss, I can FINALLY get back to creating! Guess what happens?!

The newly replaced iMac dies!!! Might I add 17 days after Apples 90 day warrantied work… gah! 😣 Here we go again! I am now in for another crossroads with this digital dilemma ~ but that is a whole other story…

Who can relate ~

Losing a computer is a HUGE disruption? Sadly, we’re living in a digital world and the dependance on technology is far too great. 

Thankfully though I learned early on in my career ~ BACK IT UP, BACK IT UP, BACK IT UP.. no digital files have been lost (praying the external hard drives behave until I finish the daunting organizational task in the coming weeks )

Pro Tip: ensure to make multiple back ups of your important digital files to  external drives, alternate devices, cloud storage and for extra precautionary measures, you can even store one of the external hard drives offsite. 

I could not handle the suppressed creativity any longer. I decided nope, I MUST, MUST, MUST get out there and continue to create regardless of how disorganized and complicated this technology is.

Thankfully from my wedding photography days, I had invested in multiple CF cards, and though it felt a bit backwards to photograph and not be able to process the images right away, I took to the streets and well, over a wee bit of time I FILLED them up.

Hindsight; it’s probably better that I couldn’t process the images right away because here’s something you probably didn’t know about me ~ I am fairly critical of my work, especially when it is fresh. I generally need a “cool off” period before reviewing my work to quiet the nagging voices of condemnation. Yes, the artist journey is REAL ~ “this sucks, what am I doing, oh this is ok, no this is great, I am on to something!” ha ha ha ( fellow artists I know you can relate 😉)

Anyhow, so now with ALL cards ( totalling 82 GB) FULL I have no choice but to get these images onto my newly acquired iMac to free up some more creating space….

It’s a delight & disruption all at the same time!

A Delight discovering what are the mystery images? I shot a multitude of subject matters, wildflowers, architecture, bees, livestock, landscapes, light play and I cannot even remember what else! How did they turn out? Reliving the moment of the creative experience will definitely get my creativity fired up again and spur me along!

A Disruption, because I now I have to 2 major projects on the go. Getting that original organization project finalized, along with sorting the external hard drives correctly making a duplicate back up. Along with adding a significant amount of images to be processed and then put into their proper organization.

Can you relate ~ digital disorganization takes a toll on mental focus, increases stress and is a distracting time waster. It’s VERY important to build a structured system that is manageable to maintain.  

Well, I tell ya; I will be taking it one step at a time, tackling a little bit each day until I reach the end.

I have already uploaded one on the smaller CF cards because I just couldn’t wait any longer, and I just HAD to connect with my creative self again. I can tell you; I am VERY happy with the outcome! It is something a little different than I have done in the past. I am excited to share it, however it is not quite ready yet. I need to ruminate on it before I release it. In the meantime, here is a little sneak peek  ~>

I can at least give you a little idea of the colours and feel of the image.

I would love to have you follow along on the journey, and share this image with you first when I do release it. Be the 1st to see these new images, and receive artist insights along the way. Join the Soulful Society E news

Thanks for sharing in journey

Stay tuned for more! ♡

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Artist Insight ~ A Patriotic Work

 🇨🇦 I am Canadian 🇨🇦

I’m very blessed to have born here in this beautiful land of freedom and privilege. Last year, leading up to the big occasion of “Canada 150” I felt inspired to create an image in honour of my Country and I was not quite sure what I was going to come up with but with some prayer and a little time to contemplate ~ it came to me in small bits…

I was going to use my photographs together to form the Canadian Flag.

First I needed to photograph red and white the colours of the flag that weaves my Country together. I decided since the images were about the colour primarily, that I wanted more of an abstraction of the subject matter so macro photography would be best suited for this project.  With Abigail (my Canon 5D Mark II ) in hand, I ventured out on the hunt for some red and white.

I did not have to travel very far; my house is white, with a bright red door. I had all the makings right on my doorstep. However I did venture out around town because shooting images on my front porch just felt a little too easy. This goes to show my fellow shutterbugs … you do not have to venture to exotic places for inspiration or great images!

I found myself out on the main drag… and this building became my fascination. For hours of photographic fun I explored every angle and textured red & white surface.

It was quite remarkable the results I was getting. I had a hard time stopping my creative workflow. With several hundred images captured, how the final image would come together I was quite unsure, since this was my first ever attempt at a whole new area that I was exploring ~ the photo montage.

It was time to take to the computer.  After hours and hours of culling & processing I could not see how these odds and sods of beautifully crafted images were going to come together to form the Canadian flag. I was overwhelmed by analyzing the colour combos which resulted in feeling uncertain and unsettled with how this project was going to turn out.

I pressed on through the doubt and critical thoughts and decided it might be a better idea to let the images ‘rest’ while I tackle the project from the back end.

Switching gears, I  started constructing my grid. With grid in place, it was time to lay down colour to hold image placement. From there, deciding how many rows and columns to go with, what size the individual images would be and how would that translate when printed small (6×4) vs. large (36×24) how images would be used to fill the space.

Once that was formed, it started to fall into place … this image here, that one there… take a step back, review, rearrange, plug in some more.. until completion!

ET VOLIA!

I did it! It came together.. but was it complete? Was I satisfied? Could I do better? I liked this formation but it felt a little too obvious and safe to me, so I took a step back and the lightbulb went off! The creative juices were flowing!  SPACE is what this image needed to give it more of an artistic flair. Give a little form and let the imagination fill in the rest, which resulted in this version.

Nice, but still something was not making my soul sing… keeping with it, working it through ~ ahhhhh I had it! It needed some MOVEMENT!  You know like “A WAVING FLAG” and yes, the song was rattling ’round my brain as I was trying to figure out how to give this two dimensional image some movement and make it wave. It wasn’t long, and everything started to fall into place ~ I present to you the completed image:
(best viewed from a distance to get the effect)

My soul was singing. This project was a delight! I tackled the photo montage. Some wonderful creations are now a part of my collection and I am excited to share these and my process with you! Have your say ~ what version is your favourite?

I am proud of these works and see great potential for the application of this art piece. The spaces these images could enhance from the public spaces such as city hall, fire stations, libraries, schools, community centres, to the private office space or the true patriot wanting to proudly display it in their residence, or cottage.

This image can be given as a unique gift and perfect for many occasions and many individuals. A visitor taking back a memory of the country they had just experienced, those in office, those in public service, employee / volunteer appreciation, retirement and new Canadians, as a friendly welcome to their new country and the list goes on and on and on.  Who do you know that would just LOVE to receive this image as a gift? What public space needs to have this image proudly on display for all to see?

Greeting Cards are available at www.vision-photography.ca ~ When is the last time you sent a handwritten note to someone?  For large quantities feel free to contact me directly to order yours.

Prints can also be purchased at my E-store please feel free to send me an email to discuss custom sizes, mediums or products that you may be interested in. I’d love to help make your vision a reality.

There’s even some limited edition handmade magnets there’s only 6 available and once they’re gone, they’re gone! Get yours today here

Thanks for taking time to join me along the journey!  If you know of others who would enjoy reading this, please feel share and if you would like more artist insights and behind the scenes sign up for my newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/oCJwf 

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A Flourishing Spring!

It’s been quite a busy May & June promises to be art-filled ~ I am so very delighted!

Looking back on May…

It’s my mission to make a meaningful contribution to lives of others through my God given gifting & talents. I was blessed to be a Visual Arts Finalist for Bernice Adams Memorial Award.  Although I didn’t take home the beautiful award, It’s incredible to have been recognized for contributing to my community.  These awards recognize individuals and groups in the community of Cambridge for their outstanding contributions to the artistic and cultural life of Cambridge, in the fields of Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Music & Literary Arts.

Photo Credit : Brian Mullins

The evening celebrating the arts in Cambridge was a delight! The live entertainment was incredible, lots of fun with the silent & live auction and the awards presentation was inspiring. My favourite was the tribute to Bernice Adams, such an incredible woman whose legacy lives on.  The evening was a great success, thanks to the Cultural Awards Committee. To the many who contribute to the artistic & cultural life in Cambridge to keep our arts scene thriving ~ your efforts are amazing, thank you for investing yourself!
I am excited to see what opportunities will unfold in the coming year to continue to give back to my community ♡

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Newly released works from the archives were a part of the Rock, Paper, Scissors exhibition in May in Cambridge. Have a look ➢ here

Other newly released works are currently on exhibition “Let’s Go!” at Walter Fedy (Kitchener) until August, 2018, more on these works later. Don’t miss it ~ subscribe to Soulful Society   to get the 1st online look, along with artist insights.

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Coming Up…

I will be debuting ten newly released works at Cambridge Celebration of the Arts ~ This free exhibition focuses on juried works in visual, literary and performing arts and is   hosted at Cambridge City Hall  Friday June 15th, 2018 6pm-11pm. This is a favourite event that you won’t want to miss. The visual arts exhibition will be inside City Hall ( 50 Dickson St. Cambridge)  until June 25, 2018.

Do you want to be the 1st to see these works before they are on 
exhibit? Join the  Soulful Society  newsletter where you will be 
among the first to have special pre-viewing privileges AND 
exclusive artist insights on each of the new pieces.  
Sign up today, don't miss out!

On Saturday June 16th I will also be a part of Cambridge Street Art Scene. This one day event at City Hall ( 50 Dickson St. ) runs from 8am-1pm and features Mural and Chalk artists, craft breweries, live music, an interactive art piece and Art Market. 

Featuring a variety of small and large open & limited edition pieces perfect for any home and office decor!

Have a look at some of the works available,  pre-order your images for pick up at the Art Market. get in touch for more details.

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That’s all for this spring folks!  Follow along with this blog to get the latest updates. Get newly released image reveals first : join Soulful Society  e-news for exclusive artist insights, behind the scenes, latest news, invites, special offers and more!

 

Pop Up Show: Rock, Paper, Scissors

Preparation is in full swing for this exclusive pop up exhibition “Rock, Paper Scissors” appropriately featuring original artworks of paper, metal, rock, stone, cement, fibre, glass, clay and any combinations of those mediums.

The artworks have been juried into the exhibition and features Eighteen Waterloo Region artists, which I am honoured to be one of! It is always a pleasure to share newly released work with my community. ♡

Two of the 3 works were created on a week end adventure to Bancroft (Central Ontario) and feature the glorious Canadian Shield, which I was so fascinated with.

I was driving through Burleigh Falls and was absolutely awe-inspired with the topography. The massive rolling terrain had me suddenly yanking the car over to the side of the road, my soul needed to behold that beauty!After hours of soaking in this geological landscape, came closer inspection. Again my soul was absolutely gobsmacked!  The designs, patterns & textures that the cracks and crevices produced had to be explored through my lens. The colours and sparkles to be found within the different stretches of rock were also a delight to my soul!

Want to see the full body of work? Subscribe to Soulful Society  e-news to receive the first looks of these works, and more!

But more importantly, come see these works up close & personal

See you there,
Friday May 4 (5pm-9pm) Opening Reception,
Saturday May 5th Show continues!
40 Main Street Cambridge
Free! Donations gratefully accepted

Not able to make it to the event? Follow on Social & check www.vision-photography.ca for public reveal of featured works.

Thank you to our organization Art$ Pay and sponsor Perimeter Development for this wonderful opportunity to connect community & visual arts.

 

 

 

 

An Artist’s Reflection: World Art Day

Did you know? On this Soulful Sunday – today, is World Art Day. Thought I would take some time out to reflect and share ♡

My passion for photography and creative vision was birthed over 15 years ago. I found myself continuously enamoured with the abundant beauty that is found in the every day, and could not resist documenting it.

Photographic Artisti, Laura Cook – the making of “Tranquility”

As a photographic artist, I preserve experiences of creation from my heart, spirit and soul. Consistently I use the camera as my paintbrush enhancing the deeper experience and the emotions felt. Sometimes in true form of preserving what I see, and other times abstracting reality.

I work close up often depicting human nature in abstract, symbolic ways. I spend significant time working with my subjects, carefully observing and appreciating the beauty, fully experiencing the moment. I examine what it is about the subject that has enticed me. I then pick up my camera and carefully craft the image, ensuring I am creating my unique artistic vision. The deeper meaning is revealed, once the body of work is complete.

“Trinity”

God uses this special gifting teaching me to unplug, slow down, get outside, and appreciate the simpler, finer things in life. Reflect; meditate on the things of God. Listen to my creator – the ultimate creator. Stay connected to His Spirit and witness His Majesty through the process.

“Silky Sailors”

I enjoy creating in a range of styles from realism, minimalism, abstract and impressionism. I value growth and development and continually push the boundaries of my creative expression.

“Freedom Flight” on exhibition

My photographic art enhances the lives of others not only by providing inspiration and bringing emotion into home and office décor but also gives back . I have created quality custom collections to satisfy the unique image needs of several homeowners, organizations and businesses.

“Hope” – brings a little light into your home or office decor

I am amazed to look back over the past 14 years and reminisce on how blessed I have been.  My work has been selected for various juried group and solo exhibitions in New York City, Toronto, Oakville, Brantford and Waterloo Region. I am so thankful for these opportunities because it is such an honour and pleasure to share my work. I am also delighted that my work has even won awards and that I have also been a visual arts finalist for a Bernice Adams Memorial Award in my community.  Thank you to all who have supported my journey and the Lord for lighting the path. I can’t even imagine what the year’s ahead hold, I am excited with anticipation!

“The World” Honourable Mention Award Winner; 2013 Cambridge Centre for The Arts Juried Art Exhibition

Want to see the latest creations before others? Be alerted with exciting news & show openings? Have a peek into the behinds the scenes, the making of the images? Soulful insights into the works? Sign up to the Soulful Society 

This distinct art leaves a lasting impression. What images do you desire to enhance your space? View www.vision-photography.ca to view more of my work or get in touch for your own personalized collection. Limited commissions are accepted throughout the year.

How to get brilliant birch bark in your home today…

Who doesn’t LOVE birch bark?
I mean… just look at it !!!
Pure • Raw • Authentic ~ Glorious!
That beautiful blue/green lichen adding to the texture….oh my beating heart ♥

No wonder we feel the need to bring it onto our homes.There is just something about it. It’s natural, unique, one of a kind!Who wouldn’t want to bring the outdoors in and have it proudly hung on their walls? I mean really!? Just look at that gorgeousness!

It’s not only aesthetically pleasing,  but nature has great health benefits. Like most, I find myself retreating to the ‘great outdoors’ for refuelling when I feel stressed, fatigued, angry or depressed. Cognitively, it does not require a high level of directed attention to take it in and thus, reduces mental fatigue.

I find myself coming back from nature refreshed, recharged, clear headed and feeling a great peace and contentment~ even inspired!

All the more reason to bring nature inside.

Duties and obligations demand our time, taking us away from the serenity that we not only desire but deserve. You can create a soothing retreat to be enjoyed everyday ~ bring these beautiful birch bark photographs into YOUR space.

Get in touch to discuss custom options to suit your decor needs. Together we will create your little piece of serenity.

To view other photographs a part of my nature collection visit : vision-photography.ca

 

 

Winter is a beautiful time of year!

I am not sure how many of you will agree with me that winter is a beautiful time of year.  Many think the summer is the most beautiful time of year with the colours of life in abundance and the warmth in the air.

Winter though – it’s also a beautiful time of year, just a different type of beauty. It takes an open mind, keen eye and some really, really warm winter gear.

Teasel Cones

Seed Head

Milkweeds II

I am naturally drawn to the intricacies found in wildflowers, the lines, the patterns, shape they make. I think they are such wondrous creations in themselves. Often times on a nature hike, I am the one you will see with a collection of these beauties in my hand. Winter is the best time of year to create with these subjects. The white snow as natures backdrop helps in isolating these objects, so you can truly see the object for what it is. I love the simplicity of these images, though creating them was not a simple as they look. Standing in knee deep snow, hunched over as the cold, crisp wind was howling. I had many elements against me, the wind continuously blowing my subject, lighting issues as the sun peaked from clouds. Ensuing I had my exposure, depth of field and focus spot on. These images bring a sense of stillness, calmness and quiet simplicity that I can enjoy on the most hectic of days.

Winter’s Tear

Remember the ice storm in 2013, well “Winter’s Tear” was  created during that storm ~ such beauty found in dormant life encapsulated in ice. I remember it was the beautiful landscape that first drew me in, but I am primarily a close up photographer and soon I was having a closer look, exploring the bushes to see the individual pieces of beauty that contributed to the larger scene. I remember the creation of this image very well, all bundled up in my warmest gear the -20º weather wasn’t going to hold me back. Many trips back and forth to the car to temporarily warm my hands, toes and nose.  I was enthralled in creating with these frozen pieces of nature.

Winter On Main

Sometimes, you have to just be out in it to capture the greatness of the season, dropping everything to get the capture, no matter what is on your schedule it’s time to suit up and get out there – beauty waits for no one.  It was a calm Sunday afternoon and the flakes started flying. A full on blizzard was dumping on our great city of Cambridge, my response: get geared up, get out there and capture it, preserving the beauty of the scene permanently.  I set up my shot and well since it was dumping snow I had to protect dear Abigail (Canon 5D Mark II), so I got the golf umbrella out and found myself juggling between operating the camera and shielding Abigail while creating this image of “Winter On Main”.

Another one of my favourite recent winter creations was this beautiful barn. This particular day, we were blessed with hoar frost.  What a sight!

Winter Barn

I love the contrast of the rust with the pristine white frost. I also love the tree behind the barn had held some of its leaves and they echo the rust colour in the barn. It was an incredibly cold capture ~ but well worth the frozen fingers!

I am pleased to announce, these fine winter images have now been released as part of my holiday fine art card line.  These 6.5″x9″ notecards are blank inside for your custom greeting. Images are 4×6 archival prints, signed by the artist and can be easily framed. Get your beautiful winter holiday cards at these fine Waterloo Region retailers: CMH Gift Shop, Cambridge Centre For The Arts Gift Shop, Button Factory Gift Shop, Idea Exchange Queens Square – Art Market .  (Select images and quantities available)

Top left to bottom right:
Winter Barn, Queens Square, Seed Head, Teasel Cones, Milkweeds II

Or order direct,  sets of 5/$30 ~ shipped to you (my gift of complimentary shipping, within Canada) Select the images and quantity of your choice. Order all 5 of the same image, a mixed pack or multiple packs …. your choice.

Orders will be processed for shipping within two days and delivered within a week. If you will be sending these cards to your loved ones by mail, ensure to place your order by November 20th, 2015 to get them in your hands before December.

                                                   Get in touch to place your order, today.

These open edition prints are also available in matted 5×7, 8×10 or 11×14.
Limited edition matted prints are also available. Shipping rates apply.

View more open edition images
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