Her Seeking
As a female photographer with a keen eye for societal nuances, I am driven by a passion for exploring the human experience through the lens. After graduating with honors from UCSD with a BFA and later obtaining an MFA from The New School, Parsons, I delved into the multimedia art field, continually seeking new possibilities for photographic expression. With a deliberate approach that emphasizes contemplation before capture, my work is informed by rigorous research on memory preservation. Currently, I am immersed in the realm of experimental interaction photography, seamlessly blending analog techniques with modern media to present fresh perspectives on the complexities of human existence.
In my series of women’s storytelling portraits, titled “Awakening,” I aim to delve into the intricate journey of womanhood, spanning from the tender beginnings of youth to the profound depths of maturity. Each photograph within this collection serves as a cinematic snapshot, capturing the essence of women at different life stages as they navigate the complexities of existence with courage and resilience.
Drawing inspiration from the visual language of film stills, I construct narratives that resonate with the diverse experiences and challenges faced by women of all ages. Through meticulous attention to detail in prop selection (such as curtains, dolls, soft toys, and clocks), lighting arrangements, and background décor, I symbolize the evolving stages of growth and self-discovery. From the innocence of youth to the wisdom gained through years of experience, each image embodies the nuanced layers of a woman’s identity.
As women progress through life, their confidence and authenticity deepen, unveiling the true essence of their being. This journey towards self-realization is universal, yet each woman’s path is uniquely her own. Through my portraits, I endeavor to honor the strength, resilience, and beauty inherent in every woman’s narrative.
Furthermore, I explore the broader social context of women, who often possess a profound and implicit self-awareness. Their homes and private spaces serve as sanctuaries, allowing them to freely explore their innermost thoughts and emotions. By capturing moments of contemplation and liberation within these secure boundaries, I aim to shine a light on the intrinsic power and resilience of women, regardless of their background or age.
Ultimately, “Awakening” transcends mere photography; it is a homage to the universal journey of womanhood. It stands as a testament to the courage, grace, and authenticity that define women as they embrace their true selves and navigate the complexities of life.
Here’s One For Wayne
Heidi Tournoux Hanshaw, an artist and art therapist, lives in Mansfield, Texas. She is the clinical director of a Fort Worth art therapy non-profit organization and has been involved in the national art therapy community for over 15 years. Heidi actively participates in community art shows and has received local, regional, and national prizes for her paintings, drawings, and mixed media creations. Heidi most recently collaborated with local Mansfield artists and organizations to spearhead a grassroots campaign to bring more art into public spaces and has been awarded grant money to assist in the transformation of these spaces to allow for professional installation of 2D artworks. Heidi has given presentations on a variety of art and art therapy topics and is eager to assist other local artists in gaining visibility in their community. She holds a firm belief that everyone has something to say through their artwork, and having someone witness those creations lends a sense of being seen in this world where we can easily hide behind screens.
Her current body of work is emotional in character, acknowledging that time is passing yet that every moment contains some kind of beauty to be treasured. As a mother of four, with three surviving children, Heidi has worked to embrace every moment to the best of her ability and enjoys documenting these emotional times through portraits.
In this current series, I delve into the vibrant world of wine and spirits, as inspired by the iconic Wayne Thiebaud. Just as Thiebaud celebrated the ordinary by elevating pastries to the level of the portrait subject, I explore the intersection of everyday indulgence through the rich tapestry of wine culture. The textured paint, while applied spontaneously, gives the viewer something to savor as they reminisce on their own experiences with friends, enjoying conversation and relaxation.
Drawing upon Thiebaud’s masterful use of color, form, and composition, I capture the essence of these spirits not merely as beverages, but as a cultural symbol steeped in history, tradition, and relationship. Like Thiebaud’s delectable desserts, my wine paintings are infused with a sense of whimsy and nostalgia, inviting viewers to reminisce on their own encounters with this timeless elixir. Ultimately, my series pays homage to Thiebaud’s legacy while forging its own distinct narrative within the realm of contemporary art.
Hereditary
Zoe Elizabeth Blackman is a 24-year-old surrealist from New Jersey, USA. She creates everything from sculptures, paintings, and drawings to express a sense of storytelling through objects and markings.
Zoe’s work is a means of catharsis that touches on the subjects of childhood trauma, mental illness, alcoholism, ideations of love, and the family dynamic. Her sculptures question the concepts of functionality; which is the true umbrella idea of all her topics. Within painting, she sees color as a coping mechanism to process overwhelming emotions that erupt inside oneself. Zoe’s goal as an artist is connection; the viewer who finds solace within her creations is her truest purpose.
As a 24-year-old artist, I focus on surrealism, aiming to explore functionality intersecting with human emotion. Studying at Pratt and RISD has shaped my pursuit. My goal? To deeply connect with viewers through emotionally rich work reflecting human complexity. Exploring functionality and emotions, I aspire to create resonant pieces, sparking new perspectives. My self-portrait paintings serve as a release for painful experiences, yet painting myself nude evokes a constant battle—I embrace the human form as my muse while resisting its sexualization. It’s challenging to clarify to some that my art isn’t for a sexual gaze. I question painting myself nude: why not portray others? The fear of being perceived this way troubles me. Yet, it’s my artistic choice, a form of expression. Past relationships brought shame about my art, but now, I embrace courage. My art embodies who I am, and what I cherish creating. I won’t let negative opinions hinder me. Ultimately, I’m just an artist.
Heroin
I took my first art class at the age of 30; painted part-time for about 7 years thereafter and have been working full-time ever since.
All of my work is biographical in one form or another, either myself or my family history. No social commentary is intended. Although I may do abstract and representational work, it’s all within the expressionistic vein.
Well, how did I get here? After I left a party I walked down the street and met this guy named Edvard Munch who had a friend named Beckman. We hung out and talked for a while, then I walked further on, looked down an alleyway, and saw three people standing there. One was named Rauschenberg, the other guy’s name was Kienholz – and he and his wife were dressed exactly the same. (Why do all these people only wear black?) Later I noticed this Rauschenberg guy just picking up what looked like broken things in the alley and it looked like fun to me. The next street was mainly lofts, where I met a guy named DeKooning who introduced me to a couple of other guys named Pollock and Rothko. They sure seemed to bicker with each other a lot, but I could tell nonetheless they were all friends. (I noticed this Pollock guy dressed all in black as well…) Anyway, I still visit these different neighborhoods, depending on what mood I’m in, but I never leave the town of Expressionism. I rather like it here.
Heron Among The Lilies
Jim Slavik has been a creative spirit from an early age, exploring drawing, charcoal, acrylics, and mixed media throughout childhood to high school. Though his artistic pursuits took a back seat to a successful career in finance, he never lost his connection to the visual arts. Upon retiring and relocating to Colorado, Jim rekindled his artistic passion after enrolling in a soft pastel class in early 2023. This experience marked the beginning of his “next act” — a renewed and evolving journey as a visual artist.
Jim’s work spans a range of mediums and subjects, reflecting a spirit of curiosity and experimentation. Since re-entering the art world, he has been honored to exhibit in numerous juried shows and contribute original pieces to charitable fundraisers. Through his practice, he founded Do Good Art, a mission-driven endeavor through which he donates 100% of his art sale profits to charities close to his heart, particularly those addressing cancer and Colorado-based causes. With each piece, he aims to inspire beauty while contributing to a more compassionate and equitable world.
So join him in Doing Good (through) Art.
My art is grounded in a simple yet powerful mission: to Do Good through Art. Every piece I create is both a celebration of natural beauty and a commitment to giving back—100% of the net proceeds from my work are donated to charitable causes.
Inspired by my travels—whether hiking the mountains of my home in Colorado, exploring National Parks, or venturing abroad—I seek to capture the quiet majesty of the landscapes that move me. My work often explores the interplay of light and shadow, the drama of skies at sunset, and the serenity of water in its many forms. From sweeping vistas to intimate glimpses of birds, animals, and wildflowers, each piece invites the viewer to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the natural world.
Soft pastels are my primary medium, chosen for their richness and immediacy, though I also work in watercolor and colored pencil to suit the spirit of each subject. My diverse collections reflect both a deep reverence for the outdoors and a belief in art as a force for positive change.
So join me in Doing Good (through) Art.
Herstories Women Who Changed History
Pati has been drawing and painting all her life. She studied Studio Art at Skidmore College and received an MBA from Florida Atlantic University.
She has received numerous regional, national, and international awards (please see details on her web page: www.patimaguire.com); has had her work published, and is a member of the American Impressionist Society, Oil Painters of America, The American Society of Marine Artists, the American Artists Professional League, a founding Board member of Plein Air Palm Beach, a signature member of the Boca Raton Museum of Artists Professional Artists League.
Pati teaches at her studio and gives workshops in different Art Schools in Florida.
Her work hangs in private and corporate collections in various countries.
My paintings are a reflection of the world I see, as filtered by my emotions. I express myself through colors and brushstrokes, and my work is impressionistic in style. The learning process of painting never ends for me, as I constantly try to improve and innovate. To that end, I not only take and give workshops, and learn from my students and fellow artists, but strive to paint every single day.
Hey, Flamingo Blue & Parrots
Sue Skellern, New Zealand Artist
CreaTIVE & BeauTIFUL & ImaginaTIVE. A Visual Artist creating beautiful imagery and creative photographic ART.
Sue Skellern embraced the creative sector as a visual artist-designer, photographer, and creator with imagination. Years of working with many mediums until recently selected to create a combination of reality and digital surrealism creating unique artworks.
Her work is spontaneous, often from a vision and then a scribble cultivating a story from images that evokes a feeling within you. Incorporating objects that have meaning to reflect their importance and create a mood atmosphere making it a meaningful piece, hoping to create a smile and conversation with the slight quirkiness in her images.
Sue’s career in the art industry evolved from being a graphic designer, and product developer to a display artist in the New Zealand Army, and then many years as an exhibition designer in the museum sector.
Currently residing in the Bay of Plenty, her passion is to create a smile! with artworks scattered around the world.
Digital surrealism captures your thoughts, ideas, visions, and dreams on a creative platform to share with the world – the quirkiness starts a conversation leading to a smile. After years of working with different mediums, I have returned to where I started.
Hidden Faces
Douglas Wolters has become known for his unusual abstract photographs as well as his close-up portraits of flowers. This year alone, he participated in numerous group shows, both at local galleries and online shows. Two of Mr. Wolters’s images were selected for the Cape Cod Art Center’s “Black and White” 2023 online photography exhibit, in which 142 photographers entered and only 35 images were selected. One of Mr. Wolters’s images was selected for Exhibizone’s “Curves 2023,” an international online exhibit in which 15 countries are represented. He is also represented in HMVC Gallery’s “Flower Power” and the Artistonish International January 2023 exhibit. He has won numerous awards, including first place in B & H Photo Video’s 2021 Optic contest (which came with over $1000 worth of gear), and Best in the Macro Division in the 2020 Mid-Atlantic Photo Visions exhibit. For four years, he won a Special Award in the annual Joe Miller Abstract exhibits. In addition, he won 3rd place in the 86th Annual Wilmington International Exhibition of Photography, for which there were 2900 entries.
As a professional cellist and educator, I came to photography only after retirement. And as a musician, I bring a somewhat unusual set of perceptions to photography. Line, rhythm, harmony, and structure in music find their counterparts naturally in images.
One of my specialties is abstract photography, using a technique I have developed. Its starting point is always an actual photograph. I then manipulate the form and color with software, transforming it into a wholly new image. I also am devoted to photographing a series of botanical close-ups (or macro photography).
This image resembles a theme with endless variations in detail, color, and form.
High Sierra
Although glassblowing was his “day job*,” he continued to practice the art of photography, studying photography with Edmund Teske at UCLA for a year. The two different mediums are connected by light. The magic of glass is in its ability to transmit and reflect light while photography is the capturing of light.
His love of taking photographs of our beautiful native wildflowers contributed to his interest in botany. He led trips for the California Native Plant Society, the Native Plant Society of Oregon, Bark, Oregon Wild (formerly ONRC), and Portland Audubon. For sixteen seasons, he was a naturalist/guide for the Middle Mountain Foundation, leading hikes in the Sutter Buttes of the Sacramento Valley in California. “Beauty of the West,” a book of his photographs was published in 2007, “Owner Decorated Vehicles” in 2009, “Alaska!” in 2010, “An Intimate View of Japan” in 2011, “Pacific Northwest Architecture – A Photo Essay” in 2012 and “A Landscape Transformed” in 2017.
His photographs have won numerous awards including Best Urban Landscape Photographer 2015 and many 1st place awards. Issue #123 of Lenswork magazine published 46 images from the series “A Landscape Transformed” including the cover. The Sierra Club Engagement Calendar published one of his photographs in 2021 and 2023. The Portland Japanese Garden’s 2022 calendar will feature his photograph on the cover and the 2023 calendar will also feature two of his photographs. B&W magazine and All About Photos magazine have published multiple portfolios of his work.
I see the world differently now. The camera, which narrows the field of vision, has actually expanded my vision. When I realized I was viewing reality as if it were a series of photographs, I initially questioned that perspective. Now, I know my perception is enhanced and enriched by my pursuit of photography. An already dynamic and interesting world has become more so.
I am delighted by the quality of light, the vibrancy of color, and unexpected and often unnoticed detail. The stunning structure of an orchid, the intricate ornamentation on an older building, or dishes stacked in a dish drainer are fascinating to me. Abstractions and patterns are richer and invite investigation. My subject matter is limitless. Anything that appeals to my eye is fair game for my camera.