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My Digital experience Part 3: First all “pixel painting” exhibition

Hello Everyone,

As I said in my previous entry, my feeling that digital photography is more closely related to painting grows stronger the more I shoot with a digital camera and work in Photoshop.That is not a criticism but an effort to find an approach  that I can work with.

I am now printing my first all painting with pixels  exhibition. it will be at Tuscany Cafe on West Rittenhouse Square. I will let everyone know the opening date when it is decided.

I  am finding it extremely challenging to evaluate the work. As I said before I like it, and I am trusting that. But I know I can’t use the same criteria for evaluating this project that I have used in the past.

With this project I left behind the memory of  what I photographed as a reference, and worked from the approach  of what  color,  and texture do I want to paint the forms. The original compositions were not tampered with , but the various elements of the compositions were altered. I enjoy the spontaneity and openness of this approach, but I do miss the instant when the final image conjures up the  emotional response of being in that zen moment with the experience.

As I work on the images i am realizing  that  the relationship of the elements to each other  is the subject of the photograph. What was photographed acts only as the framework. Even thought this is always  a critical part of any photograph it has never been my main focus. Photographers such as Ray K. Metzger explored this extensively in many of his series.

I think this is uncharted territory for me as it  may well be for my clientele and fans. I look forward to the feedback.

More Later,

Armond Scavo

P.S. My shoulder is progressing, but is still weak.

My digital adventure part two: painting with pixels!!

this is an  update  on my experience of wading into the waters of digital photography.

I am in the process of preparing for a new exhibition of my work at the Tuscany Cafe located at Rittenhouse West and Locust Streets in Philadelphia. This exhibition is a series of images taken on the campus of the University of Pennsylvania. It is my first all digital series. As I stated in my previous entry, I consider digital photography more akin to painting than film photography. And as I process the images in my  “digital darkroom” I feel even stronger that this is the case. I am having a great time with the select tools and the saturation and hue controls. I am amazed that I  can go in and change any area I want to something it never was in the real world. It is all coming from what I want it to be, not what it was or how I responded to it in the third dimension. It is truly a new and strange experience. Oddly, I like the work I am producing but it is not attached to any emotional experience I had while taking the photograph. This is a first.

I also  feel a different kind of freedom. Whether this new found openness is a source of creativity remains to be seen. I hope  the success of learning how to use the tools isn’t a substitute for the quality and success of the imagery.  I will always try to avoid this pitfall. Technique is the means; not the Art!

I am shooting for September 1st to have the show installed. I am torn between the ivy league traditional and bold  abstraction. Right now I can tell you there will be at least 6 pieces, one being of  Oldenburg’s  Button. The others are even surprising me.

Well let me get back to my painting with pixels!!

More Later

Namatse,

Armond Scavo

P.S. Don’t forget to check out my new projects:

http://www.friendsofrittenhouse.org/  Buy a photograph and help the Square

http:/www.philadelphiaonlinegiftshop.com  Gifts with a Philadelphia theme

The personal challenge of going digital:Thoughts on the digital world!

I just bought a canon 5d mark II; my first digital camera. I am in the process of getting to know it and understand its features. Last night my good friend Burnell  sent me two websites that feature a lot of what is available to the digital world.

I started browsing these websites around 5 AM this morning. One website that I explored in some depth was Rick Sammon’s section on plug-ins  and specially Color Effects pro. Check them out if you are not familiar with them.

The challenge that this early exploration of the plug-ins presented to me was a surprise. Rather than the typical response to an overwhelming amount of information and capabilities I was sent into a existential dilemma. I found my philosophy, that is the basis of what and why I photograph, deeply challenged.

What follows is the text of an e-mail I sent to Burnell after exploring the plug ins. I wrote it about 7AM this morning. It is an early response and maybe even a naive reaction to this art form.  I hope may develop into a conversation about the digital world and where I think it may take us.  I hope I can clearly articulate my thoughts and ideas. So here it goes : Thoughts on the digital world!

“Burnell, I went to those websites and spent hours browsing around especially at the plug ins. I am overwhelmed, and the philosophy behind it all is strange to me.

Of course this is my first serious exposure  and reaction to what control there is over the image. It is truly a serious existential challenge for me. If I may be so reactionary; I know it is a matter of degree how much control and influence over a subject one has with film and with digital. I always opted for the  least control and influence. One film one paper and the subject( the combination varied over the years but the formula remained the same). I always worked to eliminate choice and therefore limiting my own influence on the image.
After seeing the plug ins, various  controls and other software; what is photographed seems almost made irrelevant given the changes one can make with these various controls. If I want to photograph a warm wonderful sunset on the  beach, I go to the beach and wait for the life experience. I then work within my parameters to convey the experience.

I know I sound “old school” but digital photography is closer to painting. For me it is making the world the way I want to see it. It is much more about what is on the mind of the artist than what is outside the artist. And to be even more reactionary, here we go again controlling nature. I know that all photography does that, but film seemed to be a good balance. I have to wait and see if I can attain that same balance with digital or will I become a digital painter. My fear is if I do become a digital painter my world will become more and more 2 dimensional and experiencing the world will become more and more irrelevant. It is akin to my early reaction ( 1970’s) to IBM’S first ad for the PC depicting a rabbit. I was afraid then that the world would become more and more 2 dimensional and that the third dimension would  disappear. Captain Kirk had this same fear when he encountered the aliens that were heads in the glass jars!

That is it for now. So I am going to spend some time thinking about the digital world. I am at the beginning of exploring it in a broader sense and its effects on us.

Armond

New and Exciting developments and shoulder update

Hello Everyone,

It has been awhile since my last update and a lot has happened.

As most of you know by now, per doctors orders I had to withdraw from the Manayunk Arts Festival. My Shoulder is progressing well, but again at an extremely slow pace. I still am restricted to lifting  nothing heavier than 2-3 lbs. The only festivals I can do are those that I can have 2 assistance to do all of the physical labor. I where the sling almost all the time, especially when I am out.

New and exciting projects:

Since the Friends of Rittenhouse Square have been looking for new and creative was to raise funds for the upkeep of Rittenhouse Square, ( I was stunned to hear how much money is spent annually),  I am trying to do my part by having made an arrangement the FRS.

Purchase a photograph & help the Square

As a FRS member I have made an arrangement to donate to the Friends of Rittenhouse Square 25% of all purchases made through their website: http://www.friendsofrittenhouse.org of my photographs of Rittenhouse Square. My link is posted on the FRS home page. http://www.photographsofrittenhousesquare.com.

You’ll find many beautiful views of the Square that are familiar and new, as well as those that from my book “Through An Artists Eye” which you can view it at: youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R44Ionf7jBM.

If you love  Rittenhouse Square and appreciate my photographs, you can have one, and at the same time help keep Rittenhouse Square  the treasure that it is.

Another project that is exciting is my Philadelphia online gift shop. Through my new website, philadelphiaonlinegiftshop.com, I am offering a new line of apparel and home and office items that are imprinted with historic and contemporary images of my Philadelphia; the City of Brotherly Love. Whether you are an American History buff or love contemporary Philadelphia, you’ll find these items are great for your personal use, and as the perfect thoughtful gift for friends and business associates. So please visit today. I am sure you will find something you love.

finally, I don’t know how many of you stayed in Philadelphia for the 4th of July festivities, but I did. I attended the parade, the Philly pops Orchestra at independence hall, and the ceremonial bell ringing that is a nationwide event. I walked around the historic area the whole week soaking up the positive atmosphere. It was so exciting to see visitors from everywhere enjoying and appreciating  the most historic mile in our nation as well as one of its most beautiful cities. Their enthusiastic response to our city was extraordinary. It helps one see it through fresh eyes, and every time I do, I see something  new and wonderful. The more I experience what Philadelphia has to offer the more I love it.

That is what I have been up to.

I will be reviewing several new restaurants Alice and I have frequented, as well as the movies we have seen, so stay connected!!

Peace,
Armond Scavo

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twenty Manning after the redo

I loved the old twenty Manning. The Interior was elegant, but not pretentious. The asian influence added a flair to the food that was refreshing and always satisfying. Before 7,  it was quiet enough to have a conversation.  We went every week to 10 days.

Last night was our third attempt at the new Twenty Manning Grill.

It was just after seven with 1/2 the tables occupied. Since it was not crowded we thought to try it again.

The once silent  TV was blaring, as was the the background music. The music was so loud it made everybody have to talk much louder than normal conversation. Then while sitting there looking at the menu and finding nothing that would satisfy a vegetarian ( They took the vegetable and tofu stir fry), and nothing that was really light fare at a fair price, the decibel level got so high we decided to leave. We walked across the street to  Sea Food Unlimited  and had a very good dinner with background music at a comfortable level. We sat there watching the patrons enjoying their dinner and having conversations at normal levels. By the way, the restaurant had every seat filled. We realized what we enjoy. It isn’t the New 20 manning grill.

Three strikes they’re out. Never again!!

Earth Light Images open studio sale

Hello Everyone,
I am having an open studio sale this Saturday June 5th from 11am to 4pm. Everything in my studio; both matted and  framed photographs alike will be a discounted at 50% of their retail price.

I am sure that many of you favorites such as the images below, will be available.

jpeg-4 il_IL1 jpeg

Since my shoulder surgery in March, I haven’t participated in any art and crafts festivals, and I do miss seeing everyone at these events. So I hope you come by. I am looking forward to seeing you again.

Please call me if you have any questions.
The event: Earth Light Images open studio sale
The date: June 5th 11am-4pm
The place: 913 s 7th street, Philadelphia PA 19147

Best Wishes

Armond Scavo

www.earthlightimages.com
armond@earthlightimages.com
215.592.8832

The Stories behind The artist’s Eye

I was just browsing through the  stories associated with the different galleries on my website and I really enjoyed reading them again. To read who and why I AM had a refreshing clarity in the midst of so many distractions.

So this next series of posts will be from the stories on my website. I can’t think of a better way of sharing who I AM. This story was written to accompany my Landscape gallery.

http://www.earthlightimages.com/docs/galleries/landscapes.html

I hope these stories give you an insight into the Artist’s Eye.

land_CoralSandDunes2Utah

Landscapes

“The first  scenic image  that I can recall from childhood is the Mitten Butts. John Wayne rode through Monument Valley in John Ford’s Film “Stage Coach”. That scene was the beginning of my love affair with the Western genre of film.

All through my Catholic elementary school years, during the period designated “Picture Study”, I was introduced  to the paintings of Cezanne,  Monet, and Manet. This exposure to the impressionists, along with my early love of “cowboy  movies”,  established the foundation of my artistic aesthetic.

The artists I was most attracted to in my formative years were painters. Consequently, when in 1969 I was given a camera for Christmas, I started photographing scenes with a painter’s palette, rather than the eye of a photographer.

As you look at my landscapes you will see works that have a “painterly” look and composition with formal qualities of landscape painting. I do believe that if I were given a paint brush, a palette of paint  and a canvas  before I was given a camera, I might have become a painter. But then,  the opportunity to be in the grandeur of a landscape with a camera that allows the immediate experimentation and expressions of such experiences would not be part of my artistic life.

I cherish the experience of being awed by the spiritual connection with a landscape; and during this heightened state, being able to capture that moment through photography. The result is a photograph that is  the  expression of that  connection.”

A fine dining experience

Alice and I think La Fourno restaurant is wonderful. We were not sure that they were open on Mondays, but to our good fortune they were.  Alice had the Pasta Ramooza; a combination of Homemade Fusilli, Tiger shrimp, snow peas and Artichokes, in a white truffle oil, which was exquisite. I had the homemade ricotta ravioli with a side of meatballs. Both were  delicious. The service was welcoming, friendly and accommodating. I recommend this restaurant without hesitation. It offers superb, affordable dining, great service with a wonderful sound track.
Thank you Al and Jim from both of us.
La Fourno 636 South St. 215.627.9000

my shoulder surgery, art exhibitions, new directions

I saw my surgeon today and so far everything looks good enough for me to very slowly ease into Physical Therapy and at the same pace transition from my pillow sling into a regular one. I still am prohibited from lifting anything heaver than a coffee cup. Extreme patience is required.

I want to announce Three exhibitions

#1 An exhibit of 6 of my favorites from my Philadelphia series at Tuscany Cafe located at  West Rittenhouse Square and Locust Street in Philadelphia.

The have great coffee and other delights. The staff is awesome.

the other two new group shows are at The Plastic Club and The Immaculata University Fine Art Show.

The Plastic Club show is an exhibition of new member’s work. I am showing three new pieces from my Imaginary Landscape series.

The Immaculata University Arts Show is by invitation only. This is my second year and I am proud to be invited back. It is a very exciting and well regarded art show. I am showing 10 pieces of various subjects and sizes. Its a exceptional show and a great campus to visit. Go to their websites for more details.

http://www.plasticclub.org   http://www.immaculata.edu/artshow

As I may have mentioned in a previous post I was asked to shoot photographs of the University Of Pennsylvania for a possible hotel installation. Because of my shoulder I had to  hire Gary Mckinnis to assist me to carry and set up my equipment and to literally act a my right hand man.

I was very surprised and excited by some of the results especially the color, dimensionality and unexpected reflections and effects. I look forward to when I am able to shoot again so I can  explore this new and exciting direction that these color abstracts are leading me to. Let me know what you think!

More Later

My new Philadelphia online gift shop

Hello, Everyone-

Before I share the exciting news about my new on-line shop I want to give you a brief
update on the progress of my shoulder surgery.
The surgery was performed on 3.24.10. The surgeon was pleased with the outcome. I am now in the 5th week of a six week period  in a “pillow sling”. This device actually immobilizes my shoulder and arm at a 50 degree angle, allowing for the best healing. My next appointment is 5.4.10. I hope everything is going as it should. I do miss seeing all of you and I look forward to doing my art shows sooner rather than later.

The big news is for those of you who enjoy my photographs of Philadelphia and my City of Brotherly Love. After many requests I have opened an on-line gift shop that features apparel, memorabilia, and gift items decorated with a wide selection of my Philadelphia imagery.

Whether you are interested in historic or contemporary Philadelphia, my new Philadelphia on-line gift shop Philadephiaonlinegiftshop.com has something for everyone.

American History buffs can collect items with images of America’s most cherished historical sites. Residents, visitors, tourists, those who are moving away and homesick Philadelphians can purchase apparel, keepsakes, and gifts to accent their homes and offices, and keep their memories of Philadelphia alive.

Whether your favorite place is Independence Hall, Rittenhouse Square or the Rocky Statue there is something for you. So please visit soon.

As with any new venture, getting the word out is important. I would be very grateful if you would help spread the word. Please share this news with whoever you think would enjoy my new Philadelphia online Gift Shop and my work in general.

Of course all my matted and framed original photographic prints of Philadelphia are still available at philadelphiaphotographsonline.com. Let me know if you need more information.


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