Join us on the coast for this very special workshop on Embracing Isolation & Impermanence as a theme in our photography as well as in our life. Isolation, both physical and emotional, has been a primary theme in artistic expression for eons as well as increasingly part of our modern existence despite all our ways of feeling connected. Impermanence is a basic tenant of Buddhism and plays a part in many spiritual practices. We will be translating these into visual concepts and exploring how isolation, impermanence and even emptiness translates into our art and photography, both as a practice and in our results. 

The workshop will take place during the run of the ‘Isolation’ call for entries at LightBox Gallery, juried by Douglas Beasley. This will provide a great background and departure point for our explorations, as well as Doug’s explanations of what he saw in the photos chosen for the exhibit.

We will use the unique photo opportunities of the working port environment of Astoria at the mouth of the Columbia River and the surrounding land and sea to show that meaningful, insightful images can happen anywhere and inspiration can be found wherever we are. Through photo exercises, assignments and local field trips we will deepen our visual awareness and increase self-expression, making images both more personal and more meaningful.

By cultivating radical simplicity, stripping away all that is not essential, to make more powerful photographs, then add back in that which adds mystery or magic to make more poetic images, supporting the notion that a photograph is not ‘taken’ but made. This is a challenging invitation to redefine not only what is personally suitable subject matter but our whole approach to image making. Inspiration will be sparked by a balance of talks, readings, walking meditation, short writing exercises and poetry and sharing photos. We will be working on site-specific photographic exercises and assignments, with guidance and feedback provided by Doug.

This is the perfect workshop if you are looking for creative renewal, want to take your photography to a deeper and more personal level, or if you are looking for something out of the ordinary that may push your creative boundaries.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND: While participants must have a working knowledge of their camera, the creative process of image making will be emphasized over the mechanics of camera use. Both digital and film, in all formats, are welcome. Open to all levels of experience but better suited to those looking to expand their creativity and vision. And for those looking for something unlike any other workshops!

DATES: Friday October 24 – Sunday October 26
 • Friday 6 – 9 pm, Saturday 8:30 am – 6 pm, Sunday 8:30 am – 4:00 pm

CLASS LIMIT: 15


COST: $349 LightBox Members: $299


REGISTER: Call LightBox Gallery or email michael@lightbox-photographic.com‬‬

STUDENT TESTIMONIALS FROM PREVIOUS WORKSHOPS

“I would like to thank everyone for sharing their love, ideas and experience. I feel very grateful to have shared a week with such an amazing group of people. Now I’m preparing to go back to school with a healthy dose of inspiration.” 

— Kevin Lenihan, Chapel hill, NC

“I have been thinking of you lately and feeling so grateful for your class. I have grown so much thanks to your guidance. With your class I am in love with photography again.” 

— Susan Boe, Santa Fe, NM

“My images from this week have a certain resonance and emotional vibrance that my previous images did not have.” 

— Bob Kessler, Chicago, IL