all this beauty

Play Loud

2010-07-08T07:16:00.000-07:00

Anybody seen "It Might Get Loud"? It's pretty much the coolest music documentary ever. Jimmy Page, Jack White (not to be confused with Jack Black) and The Edge. It's a compilation of their histories intertwined with current footage of the three musicians hanging out together, shooting the breeze and playing music. These guys are a-maz-ing. They absolutely, unequivocally, positively love what they do. Page plays Ramble On, all by himself, 40 years after it's fame as if he just wrote it yesterday. Love. I could go into a play by play of each scene in the movie but how bout you just go watch it.

There are a couple of scenes I must address though.......or what would be the point of this post? At one point Jack White is hanging out with his son, "playing" the guitar and piano. Now, I say "playing" instead of playing because the term can and should be used loosely here. White, although extremely technically proficient, exposes the simple heart of his work. His boy starts to play a little piano and he keeps urging him to play louder and louder, ignoring the notes but capitalizing on the raw, gut wrenching soul of the music.

Now, when I have sat down to my various instruments, I have always been a little timid, not wanting to disturb anyone or cause my neighbor to call the cops. I'll play the electric guitar unplugged or fiddle around on the piano with something pretty, soft and pleasing. Although there is a place for pretty, soft and pleasing, it is not relevant here. Those two were pounding on the keys like they were they were gigantic, poisonous spiders being stomped to death before they could strike. So, they are a little brutal with pianos. How about a fragile guitar? White throws it on the ground and has his kid stomp on it to elicit strange and powerful sounds.

Sound weird? Ok, maybe a little over the top but he is the real deal. No BS. That music erupts from him and is so undeniably sincere that even if you hate it......you gotta love it. That movie made me want to pound and abuse, to not be afraid to get what is in, out. No, I am not going to beat the hell out of my $8000 1DS .......it's a metaphor. I'm not that committed to the craft. But I do aspire to be loud, unafraid.

I don't have a lengthy rant for this next scene. It just kicks ass. That is all.

Oh, The Places We'll Go

2010-06-02T21:08:00.000-07:00

This morning I ran a trail that I usually ride. It is kind of a grind up the mountain but it's worth it. There are several downhill options and they are all sort of bike obstacle courses. Really fun. However, today I had to drag myself there and I was feeling tiiiiiirrrrreeeeedddddd. But the day was beautiful and I couldn't bring myself to spend all of it indoors, considering how dreary it has been lately.

I started walking and the clouds were blocking the sun, creating a slight nip in the air, the wind was blowing hard so I put in my earbuds and I was fumbling with my phone, trying to find a good spot for it so I didn't have to hold it. I was ready to just turn around and then a shuffle dealt me a song I love, my feet began moving faster and my mood completely turned around. Before I knew it, the wind had died down a little, the earbuds came out, the birds were chirping, the sun was shining and I became more content and optimistic by the second.

By the time I was ready to descend I was in a great mood, feeling so grateful I hadn't missed this beautiful run. As I let gravity carry me down the trail I also became increasingly grateful for my body and legs that wound me through the aspens, banked me around huge turns and launched me into the air off jumps. My cool legs showed me a good time and as I stretched them at the car I got something that sounds both extremely cheesy and lame but when I get one I am psyched........I got a major happy bubble. For you happy bubble newbies, that is when you feel so content that your get chills and you're and completely in the moment, not worrying about what's ahead or what's behind, what you suck at, what you have to do that you don't have time for, who offended you yesterday, why your husband won't put his sock in the laundry bin instead of under the bed.....you get the picture. They pretty much rule and so did this day.

Pulling the Shot

2010-06-01T13:52:00.000-07:00

Oh, Rachel, Rachel, Rachel. You are simply stunning. But that is besides the point. Watching this video, I was captivated by the frames the photographer chose to pull; the seemingly awkward transitions in Rachel's natural movements that made gorgeous photographs. Not a lot of, "ok, now move your elbow a centimeter to the right and drop your chin, now hold it, hold it, hold it" going on. Guess what? Big shocker here........a posed shot feels posed. Crazy. Just another testament to the belief in shooting sincerity, not pretension.

Beautiful lesson on pulling the shot; pinpointing the moment at which the subject's body language makes magic on film (or on flash card......film sounds sexier......lets just go with that, shall we).

Rachel Weisz by Greg Williams for Esquire UK in HD from Greg Williams on Vimeo.

Nurturing Creativity

2010-05-28T22:42:00.000-07:00

I stumbled across this mini lecture by Elizabeth Gilbert this evening. In case you have been living under a rock, she is the author of Eat, Pray, Love, a hugely successful book which is coming out this summer as a movie starring Julia Roberts. I love this book. Well, I should say, I love the parts I have read because this well worn book has poked its head in and out of my swimming bag, suitcase, daypacks, purses and drawers over the past couple of years waiting for me to pick it up, have a lovely read over breakfast or a break in the sun and put back into its hiding place until inspiration or happy feelings are needed once again. So, reading this book has obviously not been a linear process for me but I have been elevated by it nonetheless. Truth be told, nothing is linear for me, so there you go.

Anywho, love the book, love the author and loved this segment. To anyone who has ever tried to make anything..........anything whatsoever, and has either experienced failure, success or the torment of not finishing for any one of a million unreasonable fears or obstacles, listen up. Elizabeth is a little out there but don't tune her out because of this. She is willing to consider anything and I love that about her. No idea is out of bounds but she still has a mind with which to reconcile her crazy thoughts with the sane thoughts so I feel this gives credibility to what she says.

Oh, I am rambling. This is almost as bad as my trying to leave a message on an answering machine and finish before I'm beeped into silence. Back to the difficulties creative people face. She poses a very cool question:

What if...........we are neither responsible for our creative failures or our creative successes?

What if we don't get to take credit for it when something we create totally rocks but we also don't have to feel the weight and sting of failure when we suck?

Listen to Elizabeth.........she is much more engaging, coherent and literate than I.

Eager

2010-05-27T15:47:00.000-07:00

This pretty much sums up my life right now. I am working on or toward things I am very excited about. My head is spinning and life has been a little bonkers. I keep hoping that at any moment the parking meter will give and off I will go. In the meantime, could someone please get me a bowl of water? I'm thirsty.

Ahhhh, Boutiques

2010-05-10T14:49:00.001-07:00

Yes, I am a sucker for boutiques. I rarely spend money in them but I love browsing their diverse racks, thumbing through their eclectic accessories and trying on scarves, hats and shoes that are at least 2 shades more fashionable that I am. Pete and I had the pleasure of working with Ashley at Apt. 202 Boutique a of couple weeks ago and I loved every moment. The sun was shining, the music was good, there were PB M&M's in abundance and I was in heaven.

This shoot marked my first time working with stylists (Ashley is a stylist as well as the owner of the boutique) and that was super cool too. I could concentrate on the photos instead of conceptualizing wardrobe and makeup. Don't get me wrong.......I like wardrobe and makeup but it is difficult to juggle both at the same time and that is exactly what I have been doing up until now. It was so fun to be handed a camera ready model with little participation on my part.

So, if you are in the mood for a little loveliness, stroll on over to Ashley's little shop. It pretty much rules and so does she.

My Heart Songs

2010-04-16T22:42:00.000-07:00

I was zoning out the other day while driving. Wait. I probably should not admit that. Do you ever get from point A to point B and ask yourself how the bleep you got there? This happens occasionally when I drive a route I am really used to and I go into autopilot. Scary. Anyway, I will leave tales of irresponsible driving habits for another time. This day I got what I call a happy bubble. I know, I know. Whatever. Moving on.

The sun was glowing and I was basking in the warmth of the first tease of spring. My kids had fallen asleep on each other in the back seat. I was feeling artistically full and was listening to the most recent Radiohead album, In Rainbows. Warning: Do not even attempt to listen to anything Radiohead unless you can devote your full attention. It is not easy listening. You can't talk over it. You can't put it on at a dinner party unless you want people to get all quiet and introspective and weird. But you can zone out while driving home on a beautifully sunny day with two sleeping babes in the back seat of your car and think.

It is not uncommon for me to have these moments when I feel so overwhelmingly grateful for my life. But this was the first time that I can remember having such a deep feeling of gratitude for music in my life. I mean, I have always been aware of the affect music has on me and loved the fact that I was raised with an appreciation for it but this was more.

Growing up I was exposed to music early. My maternal grandparents, both jazz & classical musicians, always played when I visited them. I loved listening to my grandmother play Claire de Lune on the piano or sing with my grandfather, who was a bandleader years earlier and could scat like nobody's business. I still have a very vivid memory of all the things in their piano bench. I can smell the musty wood that held old sheet music, wire drum brushes and a million other things I cannot put a name to. Although Mom never fully developed instrumentally, I always knew she loved the music and saw her face light up when her parents would let loose. I loved trips down the canyon singing Madonna or Sting with her, neither of us needing to talk or feel inhibited. Fields of Gold still gives me the best feeling ever.

But my dad was the epicenter of my music universe. I have no memories of nursery songs.....just the undeniable goodness of the greats like Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, Heart, Rush, The Doors and on and on and on. Listening to music around Dad wasn't just listening to music. It was a way of life, listening to him find harmonies and drum on the steering wheel of his truck. I can still feel the thump of the ceiling as he perfectly pounded out When the Levee Breaks from his office above my bedroom (this talent of pounding he passed on to my brother who is an excellent drummer........me, not so much). I can recall the stories behind every song, album and artist. Pink Floyd's, Comfortably Numb still makes me cry because to Dad, it was so much more than a stupid song.

And one of the great things about Dad also was that he evolved with me musically. Every band I brought home he gave a shot. He still to this day cannot stand Rap but, I'm confident that bands who cross pollinate like Gorillaz will open him up a little. I'm not a huge fan either but I'm sure I like it more than he does. So, besides rap music, he got to know and sang along with all my music too. He knows every word to my high school staple albums like Nirvana, Nevermind and Smashing Pumpkins, Siamese Dream.....which brings me to Peter. My music lover, kindred spirit. I cannot even begin to count the hours we have spent experiencing music together. He opened me up to the world of Brit Pop with bands like Blur (whose lead singer, Damon Albarn, was spotted by Peter's sister at a grocery store in England..........high point in her life) and The Stone Roses. He taught me to play the guitar, which is sort of sad in a way because my dad is an amazing guitarist but I guess I wasn't ready to learn until Pete came along. It think that evolved as a product of my spending so much time with him and it being something he loved to do. I have always been an "if you can't beat 'em, join 'em" kinda girl.

Pete and I were in a couple of bands together, which was cool, but my favorite music time with him has always been road trips. Can't go anywhere without at least part of the time being devoted to music. Sometimes we analyze, sometimes it's a dance party and sometimes we are just quiet, enjoying what we both love so much. I feel so tightly bound to him when Thom's vocals come back in on Reckoner and I can see him being moved by the same moment.

And then there are the times when I enjoy it all by my lonesome. How many problems have I worked through with a little emotional guidance from The Cranberries? How many gloomy days have been turned around with a little Bob? How many artistic notions have been hatched while listening to the 405,978th mix I've made? Ahhhh, Lake Powell and Enya. Busting The Ting Tings out with Hannah. Jumping on the trampoline as an 8 year old to Supertramp. Falling in love for the first time over the summer to Sarah McLachlan. Dorming it up in college to Porno for Pyros. Pounding the pavement, or treadmill, to Tatu. Being an obnoxious little teenager to The Beastie Boys. There are too many memories to document but they all form a collective whole that has helped form who I am as a person and I will always be grateful.

I'll never be a professional musician. I've tried my hand but have found other outlets I like better. I love to play and write music but don't think my expressions of it can ever live up to my experiences listening to it. Sometimes I envy the fluidity with which my dad can play his Strat, a friend he has had since he bought it with his own savings in his youth. I will always love listening to his fingers squeak across the fretboard but have come to accept my personal limits. And, as The Decemberists would say, "It's alright, It's ok".

Another great thing about music is that I will always have a new friend around the corner, a new band or album or an old artist I hadn't connected with previously. There is so much music to soak up. I love finding new things to listen to. I get all giddy when I find something new.......like I am in the first stages of dating a new person. Oh, and don't even get me started on dancing. I have decided that they need to invent a place to go dancing that doesn't involve groping, sweaty men. Oh, and I get to somehow dance and DJ because if the music sucks it is pointless being there.

So, in conclusion to this lengthy post that no one is reading, I will cite a cool song. Maybe not musically one of the best songs on the planet, but it spoke to me anyhow. It's by a band I adore and it's relevant. Check out Heart Songs by Weezer.

Frosting & Crumbs

2010-04-15T13:50:00.000-07:00

I have had this little nugget in my journal for a while now, maybe a couple of years. It may not be the most groundbreaking piece of literature that has ever been unleashed on the world, but it does mean something to me. I have come to value the depth of a woman, or a person for that matter and went on quite a journey of my own to get there. Still, always, always, growing but I have come a long way.

Along this way, I had a daughter. Making sure that she sees depth within herself has come to mean quite a lot to me. Maybe I will never understand the complexities of a woman's mind, but I work every day to ensure that she will love herself as much as I do. As anyone who knows me understands, ideas erupt from me in many different forms of expression. This inspiration came in the form of childrens literature.

Voila.

Savor Saveur

2010-04-04T19:20:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh, Saveur. I became glued to the pages of this magazine early last year after stumbling across an issue at my mother-in-law's home. The artists that put this publication together weave travel, food and photography together into one beautifully delicious read that I look forward to receiving each and every month.

I consider food to be as valid an artistic medium as any other and I love to cook.............and to eat. I love the sounds and smells of preparation. I adore time spent preparing dinner in the kitchen while the kids sit at the counter doing homework or just chit chatting with me. I love assembling the dish into something beautiful. Something I consider art. Good art? Well, that's in the eye of the beholder, or the mouth of the consumer, but I enjoy it nonetheless.

Now, lets throw something else I love into the mix. Travel. Another ahhhhhhh. I have just begun to understand how much I enjoy traveling and the ways in which I enjoy it. I have so much ahead of me. So many people to meet, places to see and, you guessed it, new foods to try. Whenever Peter and I travel we both love trying local foods and avoid chain restaurants as much as possible. I love digging into a specialty or regional dish that is not only delicious, maybe, but also new and tells me something about my surroundings. I am really starting to enjoy understanding a culture through its cuisine.

And last but certainly not least, the photography of all this amazing food and travel. If I cannot experience it myself then I live though the pages of Saveur. It's amazingly sincere photographs bring the moist and earthy smell of wild chanterelles, just harvested by hand in Sweden, the silky texture of an Arkansas staple, chocolate gravy or the aroma of a rosemary and garlic rub used to turn pork into Italian porchetta directly to all five of my senses in a perfect little 8 1/2 x 11 package every month.

I get lost in its pages and feel the urge to hop on a plane or at least make one of the featured recipes and take some photos of my own. I am a huge fan of anything that inspires. Anything that gets me excited about being alive, being creative. Therefore, it is no surprise that I am a huge fan of Saveur. They also have a great website but I highly recommend the magazine. This is one of those things you just want to feel between your fingers, to read in the morning sun over breakfast.

Sorry iPad, you lose out on this one.....but I still desperately want you. :)

Easter Carrot Soup

Serves 4
Hands-On Time: 15m
Total Time: 45m

Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, sliced
1 1/2 pounds carrots, cut into 1/4-inch rounds
4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

Directions
Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened but not browned, 5 to 6 minutes.
Stir in the carrots, broth, ginger, 1¼ teaspoons of the salt, and the pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the carrots are soft, about 20 minutes. Let cool at least 10 minutes.
Using a blender, puree the soup in batches until smooth. Return to pot and rewarm over medium heat.
Meanwhile, whisk the cream in a small bowl until soft peaks form. Fold in the remaining salt and the dill. Divide the soup among individual bowls and top with the dill cream.

*Recipe tip:

Tightly wrap any leftover ginger in plastic and store it in the freezer, where it can last up to a month. No need to thaw?you can slice or grate frozen ginger.

Shooting with the Hasselblad in Cali

2010-04-02T07:53:00.000-07:00

Peter and I recently took a long weekend vacation to California and much of our time was spent wandering the areas around Santa Barbara taking pictures. It was the type of vacation that would have driven our kids nuts. Lots of strolling, lingering over meals, touring and talking. So we left them to live it up with my parents. They practically kicked us out the door so they could get down to business swimming, playing games, watching movies and whatever else Grandma and Grandpa had planned for them.

One day we decided to head inland through Solvand, Los Olivos and up a wonderfully winding road to the top of Mount Figueroa. It would have been so fun to bike the pass but we were sans bikes. Another time, we shrugged. Then we drove back out to Hendri's Beach on the coast and had a marvelous dinner while watching a storm out at sea make its way toward us. The rain finally hit while we were walking along the shoreline after eating, but it didn't matter. It was quite lovely actually. There was such a moody feel to the day. I'll never forget it.

I had decided to leave my digital camera at the hotel and shot black and white film in the Hasselblad all day. It is so different than shooting my digital bodies. Truly. It demands my respect, and when I push that beautiful button in between my inhale and exhale it is like a drug. The Hassleblad's shutter, specifically, makes this wonderful sound. You have to put just a little extra pressure to trip it and for some reason I find this so gratifying. Finding, framing, exposing and shooting each picture......it rules.

Here is what the day yielded. Hope yours yields something happy and satisfying too!

Burberry Spring/Summer Campaign

2010-03-25T12:29:00.000-07:00

I am in love with this campaign for so many reasons. First of all, I adore Emma Watson. I did see her in all the Harry Potter movies but that isn't why I like her. I think she is an amazing model. She has this adorable little sort of smile and a great stare. I like how anti-slutty she is. Just so cute and evolving into gorgeous.

Secondly, Mario Testino shot the campaign (with his sexy little Hasselblad no less.....I have come to the conclusion that you aren't allowed to be a fashion photographer without one). Photo God, professional and just all around sweet guy. I say this like I know him personally, which, just to clarify, I don't. But he makes everyone feel like they know him. CNN did a documentary on him that made me fall.....hard.

And last but certainly not least, the obvious. I love the clothes. Understated colors, modern lines and cuts, young and sophisticated at the same time.

P.S. That's Emma's brother, Alex, on the left. It must be in the blood.

These Are a Few of My Favorite Things

2010-03-24T08:11:00.000-07:00

The other night I got the inclination to shoot some photos of some things I love. Just stuff from around my house that makes me smile. I was a flurry for about half and hour, pretty much dragging the whole of my possessions down to the studio. The photos that worked in the end were the ones that conveyed the tactile nature of things. The softness of sweaters, the grain of an old book cover, the shine of an apple, the patina of aged wood or the feel of a well worn pair of jeans. These translated well and I just get all warm and fuzzy when I look at them.

Snow Shadows

2010-03-10T13:56:00.000-08:00

Caught these on a walk today. The snow is so white and perfect and is in such stark contrast to all the dark branches. The shadows seem to be what unifies the two. I love the way the shadows from the branches roll over the surface of the snow so gracefully. Almost like streaks from a paintbrush.

Summer in the Winter

2010-03-09T13:25:00.000-08:00

I closed my eyes today and pictured the trees full of green leaves, the birds chirping, the sounds of kids playing outside echoing through my neighborhood, hiking in shorts and a t, smoothies with the fam, the warm breeze humming across my face at night from the open window in my room, the sun on my skin as I watch the kids playing in the pool. I was there. Summer. I miss you. Thank you to the lovely lunch I had today that provoked my summery state of mind.....or was it the other way around? March may sound like a month approaching warmth but not in Park City. We have a good, solid three months of snow left. Sigh.

Dancing Lady

2010-03-08T20:31:00.000-08:00

These are two of my favorite shots from the shoot with Katie on Saturday. There are a couple more on the photo blog but these are two shot by moi. There were many more looks and many more photos but this was a dreamy segment. I was wishing for a billowy skirt or dress to be part of the wardrobe but we had nothing of the sort. I just couldn't let go of the idea I had in my mind so I settled for the scarf hanging on the coat rack. Katie worked with it so gracefully. We put a fan on the floor, pushing air and subsequently the scarf into the air around her as she twirled. Lovely.

Oh How Light and Lovely

2010-03-08T15:47:00.000-08:00

This shop is so beautiful. I love the general absence of color. So clean and pretty but not cold or sterile. I wish, how i wish that I had been there myself but I have stolen these pics from here. A photoshoot in her little shop would be so cool but alas, a trip to Austria isn't in the near future for me. I can always dream.

Wanderings

2010-03-08T13:28:00.000-08:00

Much of my life consists of little nothings. Time around the house, the grocery store, walking my dog, errands. This is how I generally spend my time.......unless I am not. My camera is slowly becoming an appendage of mine that enjoys my little nothings with me. Occasionally I'll be posting whatever that produces. Today, it was a walk around my neighborhood with my Bethany.

What a lovely day! Just a little warm for the season and lots sun for my vitamin D deficiency. Sometimes the gym just can't compare. I was rooting through my purse for my iPod in the gym parking lot and decided I just wasn't up for the high intensity pounding that my music was so necessary for. Plus, every time I look at Beth I feel guilty for not walking her as often as she deserves.

I am a big proponent of listening to one's body and today, it spoke to me loud and clear. Glad I hadn't put in my earbuds yet.

No, this is not a muzzle. It is called a Gentle Leader. Mom introduced me to this little gem and I love it. It keeps Bethany from yanking me down the street but doesn't hurt her at all. If she puts pressure on it (by pulling) is annoys her but is perfectly comfortable when she is just walking by my side. Fantastic. Really.

Wedding Fashion Sketches

2010-03-04T10:09:00.000-08:00

In my former life I was a wedding watercolorist. Sounds fancy doesn't it? My favorite part about that was sketching. I went to the wedding and just walked around with my book sketching everything. But the best was the bride. With not so subtle nods to the fashion sketches I adore I would furiously burrow into my notebook and loved every second of it. The watercolors were fun also....so ethereal and simple. But the raw, impulsive nature of the sketch. Addictive.

Peter and I are batting around ideas of incorporating these paintings/sketches into Chudleigh Photography. We can't quite figure out what capacity in which we would use them but I drew some up just to play around with. It felt good to put pencil to paper. I'll always love that. I love the sound of a sharp #2 pencil run across a toothy paper. Mmmmmmmmm.

an example of my wedding watercolors

Fashion Photographer - Melissa Rodwell

2010-03-03T09:04:00.000-08:00

I totally dig this blog. Melissa Rodwell has been in the industry for years......we're talking decades and she has decided to give us all a peek into her genius mind. She's open, down to earth and oh, so qualified to dish up the advice she regularly serves on her blog. If you like fashion, photography or just plain awesomeness, check it out. Good reads.

Beyond Inspired

2010-03-03T08:51:00.000-08:00

”You have to make your dreams come true so there is room for new.”

Yes, I am beyond inspired. I wish I had a better word. I stumbled across this little nugget of fabulousness yesterday and read the entire thing!

This blog is said nugget.

For the past I don't know how many years, I have been on a journey. I have been tiptoeing around accepting the concept that I had only hit the tip of the iceberg of my life. This has been both a blessing and a curse. Realizing that you want more out of life than to just wade through it breeds inspiration and excitement but at times is also brings discontentment, of which I am not a fan. Almost like you can see that carrot ahead of you but you can't quite figure out how to make your legs get you there.

Well, this blog, and this girl brought everything to a beautiful point. A point at which I can see so perfectly clear that it made me cry. She, and her blog, are the realization of my confused ramblings over the past couple of years. I don't know her but my interpretation of what she has chosen to share is so much like me (or rather, the me I have not quite let myself be totally). So, in light of this clarity, I had to write down everything I could before this moment was gone. I found myself needing to define who I am for my future self who will forget.

-B-

I am brave and scared.
I love the smell of things and the memories some scents bring to mind.
I am fiercely independent but will always want the support of those around me.
I am adventurous and will yearn for adventure on almost a daily basis........
therefore, I get bored easily.
Yet, I love the simplicity of a quiet day at home, never leaving the house or getting dressed.
I am wholeheartedly an artist.
I love the sunshine.
I love the rain.
I hate being too cold. It makes me feel closed. However, I love having the cold around me when I am warmed by a big sleeping bag, warm body, fire, puffy coat, earflap hat, etc., etc.
I love to be loved and I love loving people.
I am not stationary.....gotta move, gotta do, gotta grow.
I like to figure things out. People, puzzles, problems, how a space or piece should look.
I love pretty things.
I love old things and their history.
I love being surrounded by history and real, honest materials. This is why I would spend $400 on an old, authentic piece when I can get the same functionality from a piece 1/4 of the price made of particle board.
I am so grateful to be married to a man that is so similar to and different from me but who has supported my personal growth in every way he knows how.
I hate being judged or criticized. It prompts me to do the same and I DO NOT like being that kind of person.
I like to be happy but have learned to embrace sadness as an inevitable part of life.
I am a terrible speller. Even with spellcheck.
I love the idea of community, being inspired by one another and helping each other out.
I love trying new things but find it hard to stick to something I know I suck at.
I can be very, very stubborn.
I love watching my kids grow and marveling at the ways they continue to amaze and surprise me.
I love traditions, big and small.
I love being welcomed into my parents home like I am the most important person on earth.
I love it when others appreciate my kids as much as I do.
I worry, worry, worry, worry about my kids and their well being.
I worry, worry, worry about anyone I care about, or even some guy on the street, and their well being.
I like knowing what's going on in the world around me but hate watching the news because it depresses me so I watch a lot of MSNBC.
Sometimes I think I have more power to help people than I do.
Gossip makes me feel bad.
I love splurging on a nice dinner and trying new foods and savoring something amazingly indulgent.
I love it when beauty is found in unexpected places.
I am an analyzer, maybe to a fault.
Good music makes me cry. Oh, who am I kidding, pretty much anything makes me cry.
I generally assume that the world is good and it hurts when reality burns me.
I often feel spoiled, careless, arrogant and irresponsible and this bothers me.
I am sensitive and vulnerable but can be really strong when I have to be.
I love babies and tiny things.
I have never been able to honestly answer the question "what color are you" because I am not that consistent.
I love the satisfaction of taking care of my life and finishing projects.
I am deeply flawed in countless ways but am learning to embrace these things as ways I can grow or as things that make me unique.
I will never be perfect.

This blog spoke directly to me so if you are thinking I am nutszo, I get why. But it has inspired me to never buy, go, listen to, act on, ingest or breath one more thing that isn't all me. I has taken me a long, long time to figure out who that is and I am holding on for dear life. I am sure I will continue to evolve as long as I am alive but I finally feel like I am evolving as me, not as some contorted idea of who I am or should be. As I look back on all the opportunities I have wasted just trying to fit in, walking like a zombie with my eyes closed and my arms floating if front of my body, it makes me sad. In fact, that was my first reaction to this blog......lament over time lost. But, as Peter so delicately put it, I have a lot of living yet to do.

There will ALWAYS be that person around every turn to tell you that the way you live is wrong. But who are they? Certainly, they are not in a position to dictate to you what you love. Nobody is in that position but you. Nobody. The need, at least my need to be accepted is huge. But if you are accepted for being someone other than you, that isn't really acceptance, is it? It is so, so, so, so easy to get caught up in what everyone around you is doing and define some sort of acceptable standard for yourself based upon what you see. Well, what if you were born somewhere else? Would you then just be a reflection of that? What if you could just be you, no matter where you were? Wouldn't it be wonderful to experience the world through those eyes....your eyes?

Now, that is not to say that I don't value those things that have influenced who I am. I think that tradition and a sense of place is a beautiful thing. But there is a deeper sense of self beneath all those traditions and that is what I am referring to.

Now, go be you.

iPhone Contest

2009-11-26T08:30:00.000-08:00

So, I know all your artistic minds want outlets. I started a little iPhone photo contest on our blog. Every Friday the best pic sent to me gets posted and then once every three months the best pic gets chosen for a prize. Oooooooh. I know you are all jumping out of your seats. :)

I am really excited about it though. I love the idea of people coming together to inspire each other. Even if you don't groove on the iPhone thing, send me any photo you have. The point is just to breed creative thinking in everyday life. Even if you don't like photography, try it. It is so fun! If you want to see some examples of this type of pic so you know what to expect or at least to just see that a lot of these suck and it is just for fun, go the The Best Camera.

Send all pics to britt@brittchudleigh.com

I AM MOVING!!!

2009-11-21T13:25:00.000-08:00

Well, sort of. I am making a larger commitment to photography and am very excited about it. As much as I wish there were 4000 hours in a day, there aren't so something has to give. I don't think anything will ever totally pull me completely away from my other artistic interests but photography will be my primary focus. Pete and I have collaborated and are officially launching Chudleigh Photography January 1st. In preparation for the launch we are following what feels like a very natural progression..........unifying our image, blogging together and sharing photo websites.

This means that I will still be posting occasionally on this site for now as it relates to painting and my other artistic interests. I may switch to posting exclusively on the ChudPhoto blog later but for now my efforts will be divided.

Pete and I are seriously psyched about this and if you are remotely as interested as I am then check out our new combined sites, blog and promo videos. I welcome and would love any opinions, observations, advice, etc..... Comments on the ChudPhoto Blog would be AWESOME!!

COMMERCIAL & PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY

www.chudleighphotography.com

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

www.chudleighweddings.com

PHOTO BLOG

www.chudphoto.wordpress.com

Vote for Courtney!

2009-11-14T22:28:00.000-08:00

The sketches in the previous post were entered in a Shabby Apple design contest. Courtney's design made it into the top 15 and she has a good chance to win with your help. Go to Shabby Apple's Blog and vote for her dress design, The Kate. The watercolor in the post below is the same painting she entered so look for it and vote, vote, vote! You will be helping this up and coming designer get on her way.

Fashion Paintings & Sketches

2009-11-02T20:23:00.000-08:00

Although I would love to claim it, this is not my dress. Designer Courtney Zwick commissioned me to do these for her so she could enter her dress in a local fashion competition.

The Petty Children

2009-10-30T18:28:00.000-07:00

Jill wanted some portraits of her kids in their Halloween costumes that weren't taken hastily before they rushed out the door to go trick-or-treating. Blythe ended up dressed simply as herself and Brynne and Barrett sported their costumes as we trotted just behind their home for their session.

Emily

2009-10-30T15:46:00.000-07:00

It was cold one October morning as I set off with Emily to take her portrait. So cold, in fact, that I was dressed in my full arsenal of sub zero attire. But that didn't stop Emily from donning her thin, short sleeved dress and bare feet. The girl is dedicated to the vision. Amen.

25 Main

2009-10-30T15:31:00.000-07:00

I took these for Joey Dye, the owner of 25 Main. The restaurant, which is the self proclaimed #1 restaurant in St.George is just lovely as their website says it is. Great vibe, great food, great design and most importantly, great cupcakes.

I Am In Love

2009-10-30T14:18:00.000-07:00

I was at the Coda Gallery a couple of weeks ago and stumbled across these two paintings. I literally gasped. I mean, they just caught me off guard. I realize that different work speaks to different people so you will all probably think I am nuts. Yes, of course, it is obvious that I think this artist is amazing. But that is only half of the reason for this post.

I think it is amazing that I get to think this artist is amazing. It makes me so excited when I get motivated by another artist's work. As any artist in any medium can attest, motivation and inspiration are at least half the battle. I can't rationalize or define what will flip that switch in me but when it flips, I flip. I love, love, love it. Thank you Patricia Canney for giving me my semi-annual dose of inspiration. And thank you coda for not getting pissy with me when I shot these pics.

Taylor and Rylan

2009-10-12T09:21:00.000-07:00

Welp. Here it is folks. My first wedding. Taylor asked Pete and I to shoot her ceremony and reception set at the foot of Zion National Park and it was just lovely. The bride and groom were about as hands on as it gets from making their own wedding cake and constructing seating for the ceremony right down to hand wrapping the outdoor lighting with twine. Their hard work and attention to detail was well worth the effort as it gave this charming homespun wedding big city grace and style. Keep an eye on Peter's blog to check out their engagement photos and his shots from the event.

Go See Jeff Pugh at Evergreen Gallery

2009-10-04T22:12:00.000-07:00

Jeff and Julia are really nice people. Fact. Another fact is that Jeff is a great artist and I love his work. He is doing really well and doesn't need this plug but I'll plug away anyway. I went to the reception for his latest group show a couple of weeks ago and he has some good new landscapes, including a handful of watercolors which he usually doesn't do. He has work all over the place so check out his blog (linked to the right). For more info on this specific show click here.

I studied art with Julia and hope to see some great stuff from her in the future also (as soon as those little arm clingers called children give her a moment).

25 Main

2009-09-23T10:19:00.000-07:00

"Identity" Photo Show

2009-09-15T20:59:00.000-07:00

One of my photos will be in the "Identity" show in Lakewood, Colorado though October.

Leader of the Band

2009-09-15T20:50:00.000-07:00

Some of my earliest memories are of my Dad sitting on the top stair outside my bedroom playing guitar at night. Enter the warm fuzzies.

I finally took the opportunity to document this tradition while visiting my parents a couple of weekends ago. Although the location and time have changed, we all still feel the same way about listening to Dad play as evidenced by my Mom enjoying the music in the background.

An Evening at the Farm

2009-09-15T20:44:00.000-07:00

This little marriage Pete and I have is really working for me. He works his butt off doing what his client asks of him and I just get to sort of flit around shooting whatever I please. Also, everyone ignores me. Typically I am not of fan of this but in this situation I love it. I can get people being themselves which I am much more drawn to.

Pete shot some family portraits and the Osguthorpe Barn in Park City and I got to do all of the above. Loved it.

Trickin on the Single Speed

2009-09-15T20:37:00.000-07:00

Did that sound super cool, like I knew what I was talking about? Yeah, I don't. Sounded good though.

This kid was blowing us all away at the park. I think I made him nervous, or annoyed, because he did some of his coolest stuff before I started shooting but I still like what I came away with.

Sissy Moocher

2009-08-31T08:37:00.000-07:00

I assisted on Pete's shoot with Sissy and snuck a couple of shots myself. Here is my favorite. For more pics from Sissy's session with Peter click here.

Are We Artists?

2009-08-28T10:50:00.000-07:00

A friend showed the story/study below to me and it got my little gears turning. I began to define what being an artist means to me. Being an artist is not a job, it isn't this thing I do occasionally for recognition or money, it isn't for other people. Being an artist is a state of mind and affects the way I look at and do everything. Would I have passed this musician by? I don't know. I hope not. But this story inspired me to continue to see art in all things, in everything I do.

Art doesn't just live in galleries, on websites or on walls.

Washington, DC Metro Station on a cold January morning. A man with a violin plays six Bach pieces for about 45 minutes.
During that time approx. 2 thousand people passed through the station, most of them on their way to work.
After 3 minutes a middle-aged man noticed there was a musician playing.
He slowed his pace and stopped for a few seconds and then hurried to meet his schedule.

4 minutes later:
The violinist received his first dollar: a woman threw the money in the hat and, without stopping, continued to walk.

6 minutes:
A young man leaned against the wall to listen to him, then looked at his watch and started to walk again.

10 minutes:
A 3-year old boy stopped but his mother tugged him along hurriedly. The kid stopped to look at the violinist again, but the mother pushed hard
and the child continued to walk, turning his head all the time. This action was repeated by several other children. Every parent, without exception, forced their children to move on quickly.

45 minutes:
The musician played continuously. Only 6 people stopped and listened for a short while. About 20 gave money but continued to walk at their normal pace. The man collected a total of $32.

1 hour:
He finished playing and silence took over. No one noticed. No one applauded, nor was there any recognition.

No one knew this, but the violinist was Joshua Bell, one of the greatest musicians in the world. He played one of the most intricate pieces ever written,
with a violin valued at $3.5 million dollars. Two days before, Joshua Bell sold out a theater in Boston where the price of seats averaged $100.

This is a true story. Joshua Bell playing incognito in the metro station was organized by the Washington Post as part of a social experiment about perception, taste and people's priorities.
The questions raised: in a commonplace environment at an inappropriate hour, do we perceive beauty? Do we stop to appreciate it? Do we recognize talent in an unexpected context?

One possible conclusion reached from this experiment could be this:
If we do not have a moment to stop and listen to one of the best musicians in the world, playing some of the finest music ever written, with one of the most beautiful instruments ever made... what else are we missing?

You. Go. Now.

2009-08-23T21:23:00.001-07:00

My friend Keith is a talented photographer who has a show coming up in September. The details are listed below. His photo is in the upper left hand corner. I have a conflict and can't go and am feeling super guilty. I was hoping a little pimping might aid in this ailment.

Antiquing

2009-08-22T22:10:00.001-07:00

Sugar Buzz Candy Boutique

2009-08-19T21:49:00.000-07:00

This little candy store on Main Street in Park City has got to be the most charming place in the whole state. I love it so much that I wanted to do something with it other than eat their delicious treats, which are as fabulous as the decor. Thanks to Jennifer for being so accommodating. I'll pay her back by pimping the store. If you haven't already been......go.

Jaime's Wedding

2009-08-16T20:56:00.000-07:00

Jaime's mom, Sue, commissioned me to paint these portraits after her beautiful wedding last fall. Sue just recently gave them to Jaime and I didn't want to blow the surprise so I didn't post them until now.

Washington

2009-08-06T23:30:00.001-07:00

Oakley

2009-08-04T21:51:00.000-07:00

Spent some time shooting over the 4th in Oakley. The light was so beautiful that I had to put down the shake I was eating and pull out the camera. Now that is saying something.

Behind the Scene - McKinzie

2009-08-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

I had a lot of fun photographing Mckinzie and wanted to experiment more with the shoot. This video is the second in what is sure to be a much larger series since it was so cool to make. To see another video Pete and I made together check out his blog

Poolside Living

2009-07-14T16:26:00.000-07:00

Handbag & Converse

2009-06-25T00:08:00.000-07:00

Hannah

2009-06-25T00:04:00.000-07:00

Dad With His Geese

2009-06-09T23:04:00.000-07:00

Rochelle commissioned me to do this painting for her father. She saw a watercolor at my show that looked so much like her dad but only wished it could have the geese he raises instead of the dog. Below is Rochelle's painting followed by the painting from the show.

Antelope Island

2009-06-09T23:00:00.000-07:00

Joni's Wedding Portraits

2009-06-09T22:52:00.000-07:00

I was asked to paint local event planner, Joni Phillipp's wedding in May. Joni was one of the first coordinators to refer me to her clients when I was trying to get started in 2002. So, I have a soft spot for Joni. After all her hard work for so many brides it was really fun to watch her bask in the limelight. Paul, the groom, is so in love with her. It was really very sweet. The dogs are her "babies" so she couldn't ask me to paint her without asking me to paint them.

National Geographic Hannah

2009-06-09T22:47:00.000-07:00

Anyone who has seen the infamous cover photo will undoubtedly draw a parallel, so I thought I'd just beat you to the punch. She just looked so perfect after her bath....I couldn't resist.

Diane's Watercolor Portrait

2009-06-09T22:44:00.000-07:00

Morning Hike - Toll Canyon

2009-06-02T22:35:00.000-07:00

Canyonlands, Utah

2009-06-02T13:48:00.000-07:00

Keith

2009-05-26T10:09:00.000-07:00

Ambre

2009-05-26T10:08:00.001-07:00

Women's Center Paintings

2009-05-25T15:50:00.001-07:00

Ali

2009-05-22T22:34:00.000-07:00

McKinzie

2009-05-18T00:13:00.001-07:00

Wall Street

2009-05-09T00:11:00.000-07:00

I spent some time in Moab this week and got sidetracked on the way to a hike. As I was driving along popular stretch of sandstone cliffs called Wall Street a group of climbers caught my eye. Lucky me.....I had my camera, the light was right and these guys were so gracious. Fun.

Garden Park

2009-04-30T21:03:00.000-07:00

Travel Journals

2009-04-26T09:54:00.000-07:00

I have been dreaming of exotic vacations lately.....faraway places, sandy beaches, cobblestone streets, old architecture, street markets, new foods and of course new art to be enjoyed. Ahhhhhhh, and the freedom to paint and take pictures with my husband all the while. This may not be in my immediate future. The vacation to Disneyland that I just returned from with my family, although so much fun, was not the artistically fulfilling environment I have been thinking of. I love to have my journal with me and sketch while Pete takes photos and this proves difficult with 2 kids under 7. Before these little cuties came along, my husband and I took an awesome trip to Italy. Here are some of the painting from my travel journal. I hope to crack it again in the future.

Bladework Art Show

2009-04-23T11:42:00.001-07:00

Here are some pics from the Walks of Life opening that is currently being exhibited in the Bladework Hair Studio. It was a lot of fun. Thanks everyone!

You see that? My first red sticker! That marks my first gallery piece sold. Sweet!

Fooling Around

2009-04-10T16:35:00.000-07:00

Just playing with the camera while the kids were playing around the house. I was experimenting with different natural light situations.

Spring Layout

2009-04-09T07:35:00.000-07:00

I've been really inspired by anything even hinting at warmer weather since I am going nutszo in all of this snow. I love the layouts in some of my favorite magazines like Country Living and Glamour and wanted to try doing something life that so here are my first two attempts. For the still like I used things around my house but would love to buy (and then return of course) some other pretty things to experiment with.

S2F Studio Portraits

2009-04-04T22:26:00.000-07:00

This is a series I did for S2F Studio in Chicago. The business offers training, fitting and physical therapy services to cyclists. They requested paintings that might reflect what they do. Here is what I came up with.

I Like To Draw

2009-04-04T22:15:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I like the drawings I do in my sketchbooks better than the finished paintings they helped create. They just have a carefree feel I am attracted to. I also just like knowing that they were much more impulsive than their time consuming and counterparts. These are some pencil sketches from my notebooks.

Southern Utah Series

2009-04-04T21:59:00.000-07:00

Here is a series of paintings I started a couple of years ago but am contemplating picking up again. They are watercolors done on a cool paper call Yupo. It doesn't really hold any water or paint so if you are painting wet, it will bead and run in cool ways. I also experimented painting the watercolors with less water than I normally would and that was interesting also.

An Art Blog!

2009-04-04T21:35:00.001-07:00

So, I thought I would pool all my artistic endeavors into one spot finally. This blog will be where I work through ideas, display pieces I am working on or have finished and just basically post whatever I feel like posting as it relates to art. I appreciate any feedback you have to offer and promise not to cry if you hate my work. Here's to keeping idle hands busy and staying sane.