The popularity of digital photography has risen exponentially over the last decade. There are still a huge number of artists who use film photography and traditional printing techniques. But, more and more frequently, Laura and I are approached by photographers showing off their digitally snapped and enhanced images printed by high-end inkjets. Some of this work is absolutely terrific. However, most of it is hobbyist work – not quite the art we are looking for.
On the other end of the spectrum from digital photography is Pinhole Photography. Like a lot of people, I made my first pinhole camera in my 7th grade art class. Although very simple, it provided all the magic the science and art of photography can offer. What a blast I had with that camera. The concepts and potentials ran wild in my mind as I roamed the house and neighborhood "snapping" shots of anything that would hold still long enough.
Moving away from the instantaneous nature of digital photography, pinhole photography forces you to slow down and become much more intimate with the craft of photography and your subject-matter. Pinhole images are softer (less sharp) than pictures made with a lens; the images have nearly infinite depth of field; and wide angle images remain absolutely rectilinear. They are a true throwback and provide a unique quality of beauty.
With this in mind, I am thrilled to report that Steve Griffin, the multi-talented artist who exhibited his acrylic on canvas Strata series of paintings at Migration last January, is conducting 2-day Pinhole Photography Workshops in his Colonial Beach, Virginia studio throughout the summer. From now through August 29, Steve is teaching Friday-Saturday workshops that include making a camera, taking pictures, and learning old-fashioned darkroom skills. Steve is a newly retired University of Mary Washington art professor. His artistic and professorial skills guarantee that his workshops will be entertaining, enlightening and rewarding for all ages.
For anyone with an interest in photography, I highly recommend enrolling in one of Steve’s workshops. For additional information, contact Steve or Gale Griffin at (804) 224-9339 or (804) 761-1113; or email them at [email protected]
Goodness. Quite a non-sequitor of a comment there from the home decoration person. While I have no quibble whatsoever with decorators, this comment makes me want to open up the discussion of art vs. decoration. For those interested in the subject, check out today's Washington Post. Jessica Dawson has an interesting critical review of "pretty" abstract art, giving it the ultimate criticism: it would look good above a sofa. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/06/05/AR2008060504068.html. While Rob and I are champions of beautiful work whith MEANING, things that are just pretty and decorative will not engage your soul. Thanks for the advice on use "art images" to enhance your home, but I will always argue for actual ART.
Posted by: Laura Jones | June 06, 2008 at 12:08 PM