New Orleans, the Crescent City, enticed me in my mid-20s. I followed the tourist trail, soaking up the French Market, Bourbon Street's revelry, and the swamp's mysteries. But one night, a different kind of enchantment seeped out from behind a diamond-cut window and an iron gate. It was jazz – raw, intoxicating, and overflowing with joy. It was love at first sound. Preservation Hall became my sanctuary. I stayed until they closed, night after night, enthralled by the musicians. They weren't just playing; they were breathing life into the music, the sounds echoing off the worn floorboards. This is where photography entered my story. Every detail – the talented musicians, their instruments, the signs, even the chairs – whispered tales of countless melodies played and lives touched. I felt compelled to capture it all, to document this temple of jazz and its soulful inhabitants. Preservation Hall isn't just a venue; it's a living testament to the enduring power of music. Here, amidst the brick walls and the rhythmic pulse, I feel a deep sense of belonging. It's as if this small space was where I was meant to be, creating, capturing moments, and losing myself in the music's vibrations. This passion for preserving this legacy fuels my photography. I want everyone to experience the magic of Preservation Hall, the feeling of being transported by music. My photographs are an invitation to step into this world, to feel the energy, and to understand why this place holds such a special place in my heart.
Perhaps, someday, my ashes (I could only hope) will rest here too, a final testament to the music that gave my soul its rhythm. But for now, my lens continues to document the magic of Preservation Hall, ensuring its story lives on.
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For those of you new to the City of Lights, there's no better way to start your love affair with Paris than getting lost in its charming streets. Today, let me whisk you away to the iconic Pont Alexandre III, a bridge that gracefully stretches across the Seine. Take a deep breath, savor the Parisian air, and let the city embrace you. A Photographer's Paradise: The Right Bank On this particular stroll, I decided to focus on the Right Bank's captivating sculptures. The first sight that stopped me in my tracks? The magnificent gilt-bronze statues by Emmanuel Frémiet. Renommée des Sciences (Fame of the Sciences) and Renommée des Arts (Fame of the Arts) exude a timeless grace, their forms a mesmerizing blend of power, fluidity, and raw energy. Gazing down from their pedestals are contrasting yet complementary figures: La France Contemporaine (Contemporary France) by Gustave Michel and France de Charlemagne (France of Charlemagne) by Alfred Lenoir. These sculptures embody the rich tapestry of French history, whispering tales of past and present. And then there's the lion. A masterpiece by Georges Gardet, its presence is both powerful and strangely comforting. The Inseparable Dance: Science and Art The very essence of the Pont Alexandre III right bank celebrates the beautiful relationship between science and art. These seemingly disparate disciplines intertwine here, each dependent on the other. Science provides the foundation – the knowledge of bronze, the tools, the understanding of scale. But it's art that breathes life into the form, imbuing it with beauty, emotion, and narrative. For aspiring artists, this bridge serves as a profound reminder: Why choose between science and art when you can embrace them both? A sculptor needs the scientific understanding of their medium, but it's the artistic vision that transforms it into something extraordinary. Paris embodies this philosophy perfectly, showcasing the exquisite results when these two forces collide. So, the next time you find yourself in Paris, take a walk, explore, and let the city inspire you. And who knows, maybe you'll find your own artistic muse waiting on a bridge, captured in the interplay of science and art. Ask anyone who knows me – the tried-and-true holds a special place in my heart. That's why classic cars make me weak at the knees. The gleam of the chrome, the plush embrace of the upholstery, the very colors sing a nostalgic tune. Owning one someday feels like a golden sunset on the horizon – a promise whispered on the breeze. For now, I capture their essence through my lens, documenting every detail that fuels my daydream. Windows down, hair in the wind, cruising to the sounds of Preservation Hall Jazz... that's the picture of retirement bliss I hold dear.
If you ever find yourself in Brooklyn, I highly recommend taking a moment to explore the local grocers. Each market has its unique flair, and there is an undeniable artistic touch present in every one of them. I am consistently fascinated by the stylized displays that can be found throughout these markets. On a recent visit, I was captivated by the impeccably stacked vegetables in the crisper area. It was like witnessing a work of modern live art in its purest form. The stock person had masterfully created an artful arrangement that transcended mere functionality. As I admired the display, I couldn't help but feel that by choosing to bring one of these vegetables home, I was not only acquiring a delicious ingredient but also taking a small piece of vibrant Brooklyn art with me.
The Thomas Crane Library in Quincy. The Thomas Crane Library in Quincy, Massachusetts stands as a testament to the timeless beauty of knowledge and the artistry of human expression. Its soaring architecture and radiant stained glass windows evoke a sense of awe and wonder, like a grand cathedral devoted to the worship of learning.
Within its walls, we enter a hallowed sanctuary where words and ideas take flight, like a symphony of buzzing bees or the graceful dance of butterflies in metamorphosis. Here, we find ourselves suspended in a cocoon of knowledge and inspiration, ready to grow and transform. Like a secret garden or an enchanted forest, the library beckons us to explore its depths and discover the treasures hidden within. Each book is a precious gem, polished and cut to perfection, ready to reveal its secrets to those who seek them. And yet, the library is more than just a repository of knowledge. It is a living, breathing entity, sustained by the generosity and dedication of its supporters. Like a divine patron, they have created a sacred space where these texts can flourish and thrive, providing a safe haven for all who seek to open their minds and hearts to the wonders of the world. In this sense, libraries are truly the coolest, for they represent the boundless potential of the human spirit, and the unyielding power of our collective imagination. Despite having several layovers in Chicago throughout my travels, I had never actually visited the city until a few years ago when my husband and I were invited to attend a dear friend's wedding. We had a wonderful time exploring the city and indulging in its delicious pizza, that it quickly became one of our favorite places in the US.
On a recent layover, traveling east from the SF bay area, we had a stop in Chicago. While on the tarmac, I captured a photograph that showed our newfound friend: the city of Chicago in the distance. I've found myself eagerly longing to reconnect with this friend. I miss the city dearly and hope to visit and explore its streets once more. I wanted to share the images I made of a serene and eerily noiseless day at Old Orchard Beach. The usually bustling beachfront had transformed into a winter wonderland, with the snow muffling sounds and creating an almost mystical atmosphere. The white blanket of snow covered the sand and dunes, creating a rare never before experience for this California native. The rolling waves of the Atlantic Ocean continued to crash against the shore, but they too were hushed by the snow. The boardwalk and pier were empty. The occasional crunch of snow underfoot and the sound of seagulls in the distance are the only sounds I heard. I took this time to slow down and appreciate the beauty of winter, and to experience the solitude of a noiseless snow day at Old Orchard Beach.
The view of Mount Washington from the Mount Washington Hotel in New Hampshire is breathtaking. The hotel, perched atop a hill, provides a panoramic view of the surrounding White Mountains, with Mount Washington as the centerpiece. The majestic peak rises majestically in the distance, its snow-capped summit towering above the tree-lined hills. On a clear day, visitors can see for miles, taking in the scenic beauty of the landscape. Whether enjoyed from the hotel's veranda or through a window in one of its rooms, the view of Mount Washington is truly awe-inspiring. The lobby of the Mount Washington Hotel is an iconic setting, renowned for its grandeur and elegance. The high ceilings, elaborate chandeliers, and gleaming marble floors create an ambiance of refined sophistication. Rich wood paneling, plush seating, and grand staircases further add to the lobby's grandeur. The Mount Washington Hotel's lobby is a true masterpiece of design. |
Liz DavenportAs a photographer, I am attracted to time, adventure, and the unique. This stems from a desire to capture moments that are fleeting and capture experiences that are one-of-a-kind. The world is full of endless possibilities and as a photographer, curiosity drives me to explore and document these instances through the lens of my camera. By seeking out new adventures, I hope to be able to capture moments that are unique and timeless. Whether it's the intricacies of a bustling city or the serenity of a remote landscape, I am constantly intrigued by these words so much so that I have recognized them to be so dearly valued in my personal life. Unique. Adventure. Time. Archives
July 2024
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