On Vocation

Ledge Road Rocks and Me

I have always thought of vocation in a narrow sense as a career or an identity. I thought initially there was vocation and avocation; but in my life, they have always been inseparable and entwined. Photography as a means of expression has always been both for me through a means of income and an all-consuming driving force. Vocation, I have found, is linked to passion. Going forward, this is my identity.
The extension of this experience and energy is in teaching as a way of giving back and as a calling. Teaching allows my own personal artistic exploration which is then internalized and shared.

Student in the Fort

All great teachers communicate their innermost passion. In learning a new concept, reading an intriguing article, or hearing a thought-provoking interview, I think of ways I can incorporate it in my own work, and share it through lessons and examples with my students. For example, in looking at consistencies in our photographs, what themes and symbols, emotions and moods appear as a thread in our images? Portals and passages, layers and isolation, that which is forgotten, black and white visualization (which looks for the essence) have always existed in my vision. This is an extension of who I am. As we grow as artists the message becomes more refined in the search for authenticity and the universal connection to viewers.

Reflection Triptych

Bet-Guvrin Passage

Washroom

To this end I have created the framework for a private Atelier, one for an exchange of ideas, continued learning and exploration of one’s growth through photography. A step into the unknown through the expression of visual metaphor.

Shades of Gray, North Light

Farmhouse Kitchen

We never arrive, we will always be learning. It is a great joy for me to give of my vocation in order to create a spark of inspiration to others…

Thanks to Ellen Waxman for this photo of me at work! Wait...it's not work, it's play!