Univers d'Artistes

A Diary in Creativity / Petit Journal Creatif

2009-07-20T00:40:00.000+02:00

Contributing Artist published in

by François Benveniste

When you ask François Benveniste
to do something, you get a fine gift - something much more than you expected.

In answer to a question sent out to a handful of our over-300 contributing artists, we have received responses ranging from a few sentences to several paragraphs (soon to be revealed!).

François took me up on the idea to send both an English text and texte Français.

He also organized his career into segments and sent photographs to illustrate each portion. And his words are at once so personal and candid yet so professional. Most of all, every word - whether in English or French - is beautifully chosen to reflect the artistic and emotional changes and growth an artist experiences over time.

Thank you so very much, François.

~UL

Here is the question:

what is your current project
or
a goal in your life or work as an artist ?

Now, the very creative answer...

The End of an Era:

La fin d'une ère:

After 41 shooting sessions over more than a year (April 2008 to now), art model Liloo and I have agreed to part ways and stop the collaboration. From the first picture

to the last:

we have produced more than 500 images that are on my site. I have taken her across the country and abroad : Morocco, West Indies, Belgium, Switzerland, for an uninterrupted string of laughter, rows, tears, and fantasies. She has given me a lot, and I have asked a lot of her and tried to offer a friendly shoulder when the hardships of life would bruise her. This is now over and, though still good friends, we have agreed to end all this.

What remains, besides dear remembrances, are a few images that I would like to share with you:

There is also now an active and professional model who can make any photographer happy with her abilities.

Texte Français:

Après 41 shoots sur plus d'une année (avril 2008 à maintenant) Liloo et moi sommes parvenus à la conclusion que nous étions arrivés au bout de notre cycle de création. Depuis la première image jusqu'à la dernière nous avons produit plus de 500 photos que vous pouvez voir sur mon site. Nous avons traversé la France et l'étranger (Maroc, Antilles, Belgique et Suisse) pour une suite ininterrompue de rires, bagarres, pleurs et fantasmes. Elle m'a donné beaucoup, je n'en ai pas demandé moins et j'ai essayé de lui prêter une oreille attentive quand les douleurs de la vie l'atteignaient. C'est maintenant terminé et bien que bons amis, nous avons décidés ensembles de finir ceci.

Ce qui reste, au delà des meilleurs souvenirs, c'est quelques images que j'aimerais partager avec vous. Il reste aussi un modèle actif et professionnel dont les capacités peuvent satisfaire le plus averti des photographes.

The Book:

Le livre:

After my first book Glam Reporter published in 2008 by Editions Ragage, the second one, ETF is well on the way and will be published at the same publishing house by the end of the year. ETF means "Erotico, Trash, Fantastique," a blend of French and English from inception. The front cover features Liloo, who else ?

But other models will be there, including Marlene and Lya:

as well as a few drawings from my friend Nalair, made after the pictures.

The last shoot will take place in mid-September and will feature six more models and a specially constructed set.

Apres Glam Reporter mon premier livre publié aux éditions Ragage, le second, ETF, est presque achevé et sera publié chez Ragage également d'ici à la fin de l'année. ETF signifie "Erotico Trash Fantastique". La couverture (6) met Liloo en vedette (qui d'autre ?) mais d'autres filles y participeront telles que Marlène et Lya (7,8) de même que des dessins de mon ami Nalair fait d'après les photos originales (9). le dernier shoot se déroulera à la mi septembre et présenteront 6 filles de plus et un décor spécialement construit pour l'occasion.

More Models:

Plus de modèles:

I don't make pictures. I bond with my models, and images are but the mere byproducts of that. I've shot some models like Stephie more than 70 times, and she is now a life long friend. I've shot many others more than 10 to 15 times (and keep going). A few I shot only once or twice, and though always pleasing experiments, didn't mature into long-lasting relationships. And then there are the new ones, those I've shot only two or three times, but I know they will become long term partners.

Let me just present you with:

Art Model Mitsu

Art Model Lila

Art Model Bo

Art Model Lala

Maybe I'll come back one day to you announcing that we're finished after 40 sessions and so many years of creative relationship that have left an imprint on my vision of photo making...

Je ne suis pas photographe. J'établis des relations particulières avec les filles et les photos ne sont que le sous-produit de cela. Certaines d'entre elles comme Stéphie se sont présentées plus de 70 fois devant mon objectif et sont maintenant de tendres amies. J'en ai shooté beaucoup 10 a 15 fois (et cela continue toujours). Quelques unes, une fois ou deux et bien que d'excellentes expériences, ne se transformeront manifestement pas en une collaboration dans la durée. Et puis il y a celles avec qui je démarre juste mais dont je sais que nous travaillerons longtemps ensembles. Laissez moi vous présenter Mitsu, Lila, Bo, Lala.

Je reviendrai peut-être un jour devant vous pour dire que nous mettons fin a une longue collaboration créative qui aura laisse une empreinte durable sur ma vision de la photo...

To order his book :

Glam reporter
François Benveniste
80 pages
154 x 234 mm
ISBN : 2-915460-57-5
25 €

François Benveniste

Projects and Plans: Dave Levingston

2009-07-19T22:56:00.032+02:00

Projects and Plans: Dave Levingston

by Dave Levingston -

In answer to a question sent out to a handful of our over-300 contributing artists, we have received responses ranging from a few sentences to several paragraphs (soon to be revealed!).

Some of the answers, such as Dave's, really constitute features on their own. Here Dave reflects on where he has been as an artist. His career as a photographer spans over 40 years, so it is not surprising he has a lot to say about it. Yet, how generous of Dave and our other artists to disclose so much of themselves - successes and struggles tempered in this feature by Dave's unique way of taking the world in stride.

~UL

Here is the question:

what is your current project
or
a goal in your life or work as an artist ?

Now, Dave's as-always candid answer, enriched by his wisdom...

Art Model Kelsey Dylan

This is a difficult question for me to answer right now, mainly because recent weeks and even months have been consumed with non-photo activities that have kept me from doing any more than occasional new work.

Art Model Kelsey Dylan

I've been saying for some time that I feel like I'm nearing the end of my work with the figure in nature. That's probably not the right way to say that, since I feel certain that I will continue to do work in that style for as long as I am able to keep taking photos. But I increasingly feel that I've said much of what I set out to say with that style of work.

I love shooting it, and nature and my wonderful models are constantly presenting me with new forms of beauty. But sometimes I've begun to feel like I'm simply repeating myself.

I discovered that the figure in nature was something I needed to do when I made my first trip to Maine to photograph on the coast in 2002. Those photos were very successful and caused me to recognize that this was a natural fit for me and my personal vision.

Art Model Angie

The figure in nature has been the primary focus of my work ever since. But that's only been for about seven years now.

I've been a photographer for more than 40 years.

For the past three years or so I've been looking for what will be next for me.

I thought it might be dance photography, and I have started doing dance photographs again, after a break of nearly 20 years since I last photographed dance performances. I expect to keep doing dance photography, but I've realized that it will not be the next direction for my artwork. I love shooting dance, but it just isn't going to provide what I'm looking for in my art photography.

Art Model Adrina

I've also been considering getting back into documentary photography...something I did for some years in the past. I've been looking for the right documentary project to take on and see what happens. I haven't found it yet. But I will, and when I do I expect to spend a year or two concentrating on whatever that project turns out to be. But I also expect to keep doing figure work at the same time.

Art Models Brooke Lynne - and _G_

From this you can get an idea of how I make these kinds of decisions. When I'm looking for a new direction I simply choose a direction and move that way. If it works out, that is fine. If it doesn't work out, that is fine too...I'll just choose another direction and go that way. The only way to really know if something is right is to try it and see.

Four photos that represent three different aspects of my work:

First, the most recent figure in nature photo I've taken...with Gaea out in the woods a couple weeks ago.

"Gaea Bridge" - Art Model _G_

Second, an old documentary photograph. I took it in the mid-1970s. It won a medal in an international exhibition which toured Europe back about that time. I've always called it "Turkey Man." A print of it hangs in my living room.

"Turkey Man"

And, a recent dance photograph of one of my favorite student dancers. The Ohio University School of Dance used this one for a poster to advertise a concert last year. Soon after I did this photo in my studio the dancer went to Paris to perform with a company there and has continued to work with that company since she graduated from the University and she has performed in New York City with them.

I suppose I should mention that I don't agree we always need titles. I usually just use something minimally descriptive if I must provide a title, much as many photographers like Edward Weston did. I think when photographers try to come up with clever titles, they usually fall flat and what they come up with is trite, cliched, and tends to devalue the image. When they try for evocative titles they often want to direct the viewer into the same thought pattern the photographer had when doing the photo. That seems to me to limit the power of the photograph to allow the viewer to make their own unique thought connections.

So, I resist titles, not out of laziness,
but because I think they reduce the effectiveness of my images.

And, now here is a fourth photo...one that I took on that trip to Maine in 2002 that got me started on the figure in nature work. The models are Hope and Rachel. Rachel doesn't have a web presence. Hope's work is here:

"Back Bend on Rocks, Maine Coast"

Art Models Hope and Rachel

The Figure in Nature
by Dave Levingston

Available : here.

"Beautiful women photographed in beautiful locations from California to Maine.

Levingston integrates the female figure into the landscape and reveals relationships that go to the core of our ideas of beauty.

A delight for the eye and the intellect."

Exposed For The Shadows

The Blog of Dave Levingston

In the forest

2009-07-19T12:41:00.000+02:00

Robert Lubanski -
"Thinking"
Art Model Claudia

Howard Nowlan -
"Morning Glory"
Art Model Magenta -

Evgeniy Shaman -
"Travelling with the night wind"

Beau eRomantica -
"Phloem I"

F.W. Scharpf -
"KatL 15"
Art Model and Photographer Kat Love -

Joel Belmont -
"Untitled 27"

Jarda Balek -
"Poison Ivy"

Darren Phillips -
Art Model Melanie

David L. Le Beck -
"Sea Nymphs, 082"
Models Escura and Chloé

Scott Nichol -
"Fallen Tree"
Art Model Christy

Andrew Kaiser -
"To Hide My Face"

Stanis Voroncov

Dave Ayerst Davies -
"Wood Nymph"
Art Model ERosanne

Laurie Jeffery -

Cartien -
"Hana 09"

Midsummer Magic : An Exhibition of Art

2009-07-16T18:10:00.126+02:00

by Unbearable Lightness

UdA Artistic Director

Here we are, deep into midsummer; our artists are busy at home and on vacations, but what a wonderful season to create art.

"Out of this wood do not desire to go."

William Shakespeare,

"A Midsummer Night's Dream"

Viorel Mocanu
"Atat de Primavera"
Art Model Summer-Rhapsody

Viorel Mocanu
"Magenta"
Art Model Summer-Rhapsody

"I'm back from Barcelona. Back to reality, so to speak. Back from a nice dream. Something too good to be true. I've realized Romania will never reach that level of civilization, human quality, style and architecture. But that's just the way life is."

from Viorel's journal

Stephen Haynes -
"Shelley at Home"

Stephen Haynes

Art Model BellaSoleil

"I'm not one for Photoshop effects (usually), which sometimes can be pretty hokey, but I've used one recently that yields an interesting look. It's based on techniques described in a recent issue of NAPP's Photoshop User magazine."

from the July 14th post - Stephen Haynes's blog Magic Flute Fine Arts Nudes

Bojar
"To Tchaikovsky"

Dave Levingston -
"Kelsey Indoors"
Art Model Kelsey Dylan

"Here's one more of Kelsey, but this time it's one from near the end of our shoot when we were working indoors at mid-day in an old building. I don't know what you might think...but it seems to me that Kelsey is completely ignoring that "No Smoking" sign."

from his July 13th post - Dave's blog Exposed for the Shadows

Lucian Schmit
"My Angel"
Brooke Lynne -

Lucian Schmit
"Bagby Hot Springs"
Brooke Lynne -

"Love love love these. There will be more to come later, of course.
Love Oregon.
Love San Francisco too.
There's a lot of love. Just wish I had my love with me."

from her July 14th post - Brooke's blog Brooke Lynne

Chomik - "Swing"

Gary Mitchell
Contributing artist published in
Art Model Reveille

About Reveille :

"An artist, I draw, paint, model, or experiment with whatever I can get my hands on.
Love learning new things and exploring. Anything unique or unusual and I'm generally attracted to it by default. "

from her myspace page

Walter Menegazzi
Art Model Maylin Aguirre

Walter Menegazzi
Art Model Manjit Kaur

Nad Iksodas -
"Curves of Control"
Art Model Lela Rae -

"Some fun with hardware, and a wonderfully REAL leather, steel boned underbust corset that can be quite the serious item, even when just playing around! Hopefully film to come still from this shoot."

from Lela Rae's artist's comments on deviantart

Liam Perkins
"Housewife 11"
Art Model Clayre McKinnen

George Schmauch
"Sarah at her Bath 3"
Art Model Sarah Ellis -

Peter Lime -
"Alter Pedroso Anta"
Art Model Susana

"Portugal has so many monuments of this type that I couldn't resist photographing them! This one is in Alentejo, south of Portugal, and is called "Alter Pedroso's Anta." It has eight vertical big stones, but unfortunately no longer has the cover stone."

from Peter's artist's comments on deviantart

Sylvain Von K
"Like My Holiday"

Art Model Datura Noir -

TRAVEL in July :

U.S.A. Los Angeles - Las Vegas - San Diego

ITALY Pescara

from Datura's Model Mayhem profile

We thank all of the artists who share their midsummer magic.

God bless me ?... Cool ! You make my day.

2009-07-16T08:39:00.022+02:00

Summer trip

Some strange words for a French...

Corwin Prescott - - "Solar System on Your Head"

Jam Abelanet
"Sans gravité"

"Cool".
The first one I love : "cool".
The best definition in french is "tranquiiiiiille", with a plenty of i, as we use to add in the south of France : "quiiiiiiiet".

"Cool" is not between hot and cold, "tiède" in french. It's just the good temperature at the evident good place and the craziest good moment. Of course. A natural and simple happiness.
I love "cool". It sounds like a big breathe.

Thomas van de Scheck - - "Party"

Perry Gallagher

"JJ Plush"

What else ?...
"You make my day" !
No translation possible... Ok, we have many french idioms which can be close but nothing so clear. Our language is rich but "you make my day" is such a beautiful resume : "you light up my day !", "today is a wonderful day thanks to you"... You'll never hear that in France.

Intergrativeone - - "Bountiful"
Art Model Dollybeck -

Irakly Shanidze - - "A Girl With a Nail File"

OnePixArt

"Anais in a yoga pose"
Art Model Lady Anais

Then ?!!! "God bless you" of course.

For sure.

The very first time I heard it, I felt disturbed. "Dieu te bénisse", "God bless you", everywhere, at each corner of streets, for one dollar, for a purchase, a strange encounter, because all is strange abroad : "God bless you".

Peter Lime -
"Come to me II"
Art Model Almost Moon

You'll never hear that in France, too. Forget it. It's a catholic country but God keeps a secret ! Nobody talks about his faith before to know you in your deepest inner. And I'm far from the reality. All mystic or religious questions are prohibited. No pray for the bread, no more empty chair for the poor who could ask for a meal, no changes at the end of the sunday rites, no revelations about Love...

So without a doubt, "God bless you" told by everyone and everywhere is the most wonderful expression I've ever heard on this planet.

Beau eRomantica - - "The Person in Charge"

An Interview with Sarah Ellis

2009-07-14T17:10:00.093+02:00

Sarah Ellis

Contributing Artist published in

by Unbearable Lightness
UdA Artistic Director

When I worked with Michael Siu in New Orleans, he took the time to show me his favorites among his works. These included some gorgeous photographs of Sarah Ellis. For some reason, perhaps working with the same photographer, or perhaps seeing the NOLA street where Michael shot that fantastic image of her walking Ozzy, I somehow felt close to her.

It was a pleasure to work with Sarah on this interview.
She has such enthusiasm for her modeling work and, best of all, she just bubbles - it is so sincere - when she talks about the importance of having fun with your work !

Michael Siu

Contributing Artist published in
"Ozzy Takes a Walk, New Orleans"

Her first feature, written by Dave Rudin - , was published here on January 27, 2008.
I previously interviewed her for "The Greatest Inspirations for Art Models" feature published Feb. 2, 2009.
In the February interview, Sarah talked about being inspired by Irving Penn's pictures of his wife, Lisa Fonssagrives, when she was a kid. So I figured Sarah had been a child model and made a note: "Ask her when she got started".

Dave Rudin - "Nude, Ohio, 2007"
Contributing Artist published in

Michael Helms
Contributing Artist published in

What she liked about Lisa Fonssagrives was her "amazing ability to express complex emotions with very subtle changes of expression.

She always looks poised but she also has a beautiful vulnerability about her. I love the fact that she is so versatile - the pictures I've seen of her are not pictures of her personality - she is obviously projecting the personality that the photographer is asking for. At the same time she is very distinctive - you always recognize her."

So I also figured the acting aspect of modeling appeals to Sarah.

Starting out, I already knew she doesn't like figs,is "not interested in shooting anything more explicit than Playboy style nudes,"and does not do bondage or video work.

Sarah, you seem to be busy all the time and work with many different photographers. Are you a full-time model ?

Yes. I finished my Masters degree a little over a year ago, and I've been modeling full time since then.

Luke Pearson
"Sea Spray"

When did you begin to model ? What made you want to continue to do fine arts nude work ?

I have been modeling since I was six - commercial and fashion until I was 14, and nude since I was 18.
I love to be in front of the camera.

Renee Jacobs
Contributing Artist published in

I started modeling nude pretty much as soon as I was legal. My boyfriend at the time put me up to it. I had been a commercial and fashion model when I was younger, but I didn't have the body for that kind of work. Nude modeling seemed like a better fit for me.
I am really lucky to have grown up with parents who were very open about sexuality and who never made me feel ashamed of my body. They encouraged my appreciation of art, and they have always been very supportive of my creativity. Erotic art, images of women who were openly sexual beings, have always appealed to me - from Titian to Cartier-Bresson to cheesy stuff like Vargas and Manara, and I was thrilled to be part of the processes of making such images.

Sean Armenta

How wonderful to have parents who encouraged your discovery of art and your own creativity, not to mention a supportive boyfriend ! I also am not surprised to hear you have been a fashion model.
I noticed your string of magazine publications. Do you work as an agency model? If not, how do you market yourself ?

I left my agency when I was a teenager. I don't like having anyone tell me who to work with or what I should look like - the agency world just wasn't for me. I get my gigs through the various online modeling sites and through word of mouth.

Fashion Nudes

I believe you've appeared in two issues of NUDE now. Of course, since UdA is the official blog for that publication, this may be a bit of a tricky question, but how do you see this magazine compared to the other places you publish ?

(Other places Sarah publishes : Black + White Magazine, Stern Magazine (3 times), Nerve E-Zine, BlueNudes, Graphic Authority, Hairstyles Magazine CVS Pharmacy, Magazine Leading Lady)

Chip Willis
Contributing Artist published in
"Private Dancer"

I think it's a very pretty magazine, and it's nice to see the talented people I've worked with getting their work in print, but to be perfectly honest I don't get very excited about being published in it. From what I can see the magazine doesn't get much notice from people who aren't already involved in the art nude community, so for the most part the people who see me in there will be people who could already find me on one of the modeling websites. I tend to get more excited about getting my work published in magazines with a wider appeal - ones that are being seen by people who aren't already fans of the kind of work I do.

T H Taylor

What is most important to you about your modeling ?

A.J. Kahn

Contributing artist published in

I guess the most important thing about modeling is that it not be boring. As soon as I feel like I'm doing the same thing over and over I won't do it anymore.

The thing I enjoy most about modeling is that it allows me to be a different person - for an hour I can be someone new - I am the person that the photographer is trying to take a picture of. That person is always different. That's very important to me.

Chip Willis
"Clear Creek"

I think an actor would say the same thing. Aside from avoiding boredom, what goals have you set for yourself ? How many of these goals have you achieved ?

I haven't really set goals with my modeling. I've had photographers that I've really wanted to work with and places I've wanted to travel to and getting to do those things has been very exciting.

At the moment I guess my goal is just to support myself and do work I enjoy.

Pretty simple.

Which particular photograph is your favorite ? Why ?

I get asked that a lot and it's hard to answer. There are photographs that look like I look to myself, ones that make me look good, ones that appeal to me on a purely artistic level, and ones that I love just because they remind me of a happy experience.

Marcus J Ranum
"What I Really Look Like"

I don't think I can really judge my own pictures well. I have a good eye, but when it comes to my own work there is so much emotional weight attached to any good image that I can't really choose one over another.

Chas Ray Krider

When I was pulling images for this feature, I was impressed with the number of excellent photographers with whom you've worked. What do you look for in a photographer ?

The first thing that attracts me to a photographer's work is individual style - I love working with people who really know what they like and what excites them.

Chas Ray Krider is one of my all time favorites. There is something very special about a man who really knows what turns him on and isn't afraid to photograph it.

I also look for people who are actually interested in working with me - not just as another nude model - but for some particular quality that they think I will bring to their work.

Marcus J Ranum

I hope I've included some of your favorites with this feature. I tried, based on your artist's comments and your own selection for your sites. Since you've been modeling for quite a while, you must have a lot you could share with other models. What advice would you give to a
young model just starting out ?

Figure out what you want. Do you want to be a model because you want to be famous or rich? Maybe you want to be a model because you want to feel beautiful. Maybe you just like to be naked or you dig hanging out with lots of strange men.

Just find out what it is that you want. Then find someone who has the thing you want and ask them how they got it.

If you want to be a traveling art model, find a model whose work you dig and ask them how they got there. If you want to be IMG's next big thing - go to an agency open call and let them tell you what you need to do.

SH Studios

Also, if you have a hard time dealing with rejection, get over it. Modeling is all about personal preference - it's not a meritocracy - you get gigs because someone wants you, not because of your qualifications. If you get rejected, don't take it personally - it's not about you, it's about the person making the decision and what they need.

I hope you've noticed a modeling career no longer needs to end at a certain age (ah hem, ah hem !). How long do you plan to continue modeling ?

Wolfgang Parker

As long as good photographers want to take my picture. I don't think I'll ever stop enjoying this work. I definitely don't want to model full time for more than a few years more - the travel and financial uncertainty are going to get to me eventually. I think I'll keep modeling as long as I can though - it's just too much fun to give up.

George Schmauch (Zeitgeist Photography)
"Poor Little Badger"

Sarah Ellis

She's so cool...

2009-07-14T16:56:00.003+02:00

Mylène Farmer
"L'amour n'est rien" (English subtitles)

Jan Murphy published in NUDE, summer issue

2009-07-14T09:03:00.006+02:00

Our warmest congratulations to Jan Murphy, photographer from UK (and so active Univers d'Artistes Art Editor !) for her publication in the Carrie Leigh's NUDE summer issue !

"Statuesque"
Art Model Emily

"Dark at Heart"
Art Model Cinnamon

Jan Murphy ©

Daria Malysheva's interview

2009-07-13T11:00:00.000+02:00

Daria Malysheva is a portrait photographer of 20 years old from Russia, this incredible country full of so wonderful photographers (the passionate will know) like her.

"Shade"

You'll find Daria Malysheva at : her new official site, her space at deviantART, her first feature.

Daria, tell us how did your passion begin ?

It was after I learned that my granddad was a professional photographer and I decided to follow in his footsteps.

My first camera was the old "Zenit", which undoubtedly has every Russian in the depth of a small pantry. It was time, when I understood that photography is the only way for me to express.

"Again"

"Contact"

"Kate"

You seem so accomplished... Did you learn photography in a special school ?

Yeah, I did a one year-course in "Modern Photo" school, which had just opened at that time. Now it's one of the greatest in Moscow.

But as I learned later, the best teacher is your own experience,
when you work with a model, face to face.

"Wild bird"

Seeing your age, I asked myself who could be your greatest inspirators ?

Lot's of them, I like surfing the Net and unexpectedly find somebody's really worth seeing works. Nowadays there're plenty of talented photographers, whom photos are a powerful spur for my imagination.

Another source of inspiration is music. It keeps me good minded, and in lyrics I usually find some unusual ideas.

Right. At least I see that your inspiration comes from many different spaces. Be sincere, how long could you be far from your camera ?

Well, no more than a week. Otherwise, most of the ideas become no longer desirable.

Do you feel particularly inspired by a type of location ?

Of course ! It's especially important for making composition and a whole image. Unfortunately, you must put some effort into finding inspiring places here, in Moscow. It depends on my mood, but indoor lost it's appeal for me recently apart from deserted old houses actually. I'm really keen on them.

"Time to choose"

"Different"

How do you feel at the end of a shooting ?

Usually very exhausted, not only physically, but mostly mentally.

If you put a part of your soul in the creation like I do it, then you know how difficult it can be.

But at the same time shooting gives me a great sense of satisfaction. Especially when I feel that a couple of great pictures are made.

How I understand you ! Have you a special project you're dreaming about ?

It's a secret ;) There's one. And as soon as I find models, clothes and proper location, I'll take my camera and do it. Hope it won't take long else somebody will steal the idea.

Model Natali

I'm impatient to know ! And have you published a book ?

Not yet. But some of my works were published in the second Photosight book and one photo was already on the cover of "Best digital cameras" magazine. Not a bad start I guess and I'm determined to carry on.

"Forest's spirit"

Bravo ! What's for your next future ? Something more to come ? Not a secret ?...

I would like to try myself in professional fashion photography and in advertising.

The message is sent. Another one ?

Always remember who you are, and that everything that happens is for the best.

A wonderful one... Thanks a lot Daria ! We keep in touch.

"Current mood 2"

Daria Malysheva

New facets of Doug Winsor

2009-07-13T09:33:00.005+02:00

You may find Doug Winsor at : his official site, all his articles here inside, his interview.

"Hood Ornament"
Art Model Kristen

"Spirals"

"Wait for fire"

His new book !

pretty naked nudes

By Doug Winsor

Available : here.

A collection of nude work done between 2006-2008.
Hardcover, Dust Jacket.
Photographs to preview at his official site.

Doug Winsor ©

All prints available here.

A Summer Garden of Visual Delights

2009-07-12T23:00:00.038+02:00

by Unbearable Lightness
UdA Artistic Director

Once in a while I take a tour of work newly posted by our contributing artists. Sometimes these tours take me on detours : perhaps one of our models has worked with a photographer unfamiliar to me, so I click onto a new site.

Most of the artists in this Best of! are UdA contributing artists, but a few are not. Introductions of "new" artists always fascinate me when someone else "discovers" someone, so I hope you are also fascinated by any new photographers or models I've chosen to publish here.

I hope you enjoy this tour of visual delights !

A.J. Kahn

Contributing artist published in

A. J. Kahn is known for his black and white work and masterful lighting. How delightful to discover this beautiful new color work by one of my favorite photographers! And look at the incredible lighting (as always with A. J.), as delicate as a Japanese printed screen.

A.J. Kahn
Art Model Mischief Vixen

This is signature A. J. Kahn figure work - in black and white, with lighting that makes the model's skin look like satin. I know first hand how strenuous it is to shoot with him - it's like a trip to the gym - but what model would not be willing to get pumped up. Just look at the A. J. Kahn perfection of this newly-posted work!

Bill Strachan
"Chatelherault House, Scotland"
Art Model Ashleigh Hewitt

On the heels of posting a work by Richard Avedon, I have been thinking about the little black dress. Consider the elegance achieved by the most artistic fashion and celebrity photographers, including George Hurrell who worked with such beauties as Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe. Here Bill Strachan captures Miss Glasgow's fair beauty beneath a portrait of a great lady from the past.

Dave Hare -
Art Model Iveta Niklova -

Iveta seems awash in white satin sheets as Dave Hare's soft lighting imparts an angelic radiance to her vulnerable look. What I love most about the image, though, is the surprising splash of red. This reminds me of a beautiful, old-fashioned Valentine.

Ed Freeman
Art Model Ivory Flame

I am a fan of Ed Freeman's underwater photography. He has done some incredible work with Vanessa Tarachin. What a delight to find an image from a collaboration with Ivory Flame. One of her distinctive features is her flaming red hair. Instead of contrasting her red hair against what I imagine was very blue water, he has turned the picture into a wonderful bronze.

Gary Mitchell
Contributing artist published in
Art Model Tia

Check Tia's Model Mayhem site for a number of the incredible shots from this series taken in the desert near Page, Arizona. Her poses and Gary's color and composition are breathtaking.

Michael Vasquez
"TH at the Window"

Michael recently posted this image with one of his lovely blog at MichaelV. If you haven't visited his blog and read about his life, loves, and struggles, then visit him today. Not only are his photographs brilliant; his words will inspire and move you.

Paul Blieden -
"Anais in Purple"
Lady Anais -

What initially attracted me to this picture was Lady Anais's beautiful smile. The lavendar blue color adds to the delight. Paul presents Lady Anais as delicately as he might photograph a hyacinth blossoming on a summer afternoon.

Stephen Haynes -
"Brooke & the Chair"
Brooke Lynne -

Stephen posted this image July 3 on his blog Magic Flute Fine Arts Nudes. The post was unusually brief. He wrote: "I can say absolutely nothing that is more interesting or more enjoyable than this, one of the best of many, many great photos from our recent session. "

The window light, the sea green color of the wicker chair, and Brooke's pixie relaxed pose create the feeling of a lazy afternoon in a cottage by the sea. This is just beautiful; Stephen's blog is another must-visit, by the way. I make my daily blog tour and, along with Michael's, Stephen's is a regular stop.

Dave Hare

2009-07-12T09:38:00.007+02:00

You'll find Dave Hare, from UK, at : his official site, and this one, Purestorm, Saatchi Gallery, Model Mayhem, photo.net, British Museum of Erotic Art, his interview.

"Iveta on Grey"
Art Model Iveta Niklova -

"Classic Skye"

"Adele X nude"
Art Model Adele

"Lottie Grip 4"

Dave Hare ©

Anca Cernoschi : her projects !

2009-07-12T08:00:00.000+02:00

An informal discussion with
Anca Cernoschi

by Jan Murphy

UdA Art Editor & Photographer

"Me - window"

After looking at the extent of styles within Anca's work, I was truly captivated by so many of the images. I realise that even though the models need to keep a certain anonymity they still really held presence in the images, or that is how it came across to myself. I hope you feel and see what I do.

I share with you a small selection of this artist's work with you - do go and research more, I highly recommend you do.

You'll find Anca Cernoschi, from Romania, at : her photoblog, ALTphotos, Art Limited, her space at deviantART, photo.net, her first feature/interview.

Anca, I read your article on UdA a while back and was really inspired by your work and passion for what you do. You say you are a beginner but you really have a flair for what you do.

Jan, you are too kind :)

"Dora - contest"

Did you have any early influences or did you just follow what felt good for you ?

I guess I could say that I followed what felt good for me regarding the themes of my photos but I studied the masters too. This study is essential, I think, because the most important thing is to have the abilities to express your ideas in an aesthetic manner that is accessible to the public.

A photograph it's like a beggar's hand in front of you, if it doesn't tell you a story, it won't get anything from you.

"Private"

When did you feel really at ease with a certain project and thought, yes this is for me, this is what I wish to shoot ?

Well, I think I can refer to the most important themes in my portfolio : portraits and nudes.

The way I treated them is quite different. For portraits I like to discover people and find out what suites them, while for the nudes it's the other way around, I try to find people that fit one idea I have. I guess it worked well until now.

I always try to tell stories, it's a constant project for me,
to create or discover stories.

Please share with us about any projects you are working on at present. You talked in your interview about your 'Film Noir' inspired photography, I would love to hear more about this.

"Room 1"

The "film noir" project was very interesting. I discovered some fabulous things that I don't think I would have otherwise, things that I think I would like to return to sometimes, maybe even in the nude theme. Unfortunately the project was put on hold for now but I started a new project on nudes. I will have a personal exhibition this fall.

"T"

The technique used will be projections, as a connection between very different themes.

I want to dedicate more time to study this and, fortunately, and finally I get to do it this summer. Maybe I'll just change my mind and create a story, not some unrelated shots, I really don't know.

"C"

"Dora"

I would love to see and feel what you refer to. Do you have any images or a website to share ?

I would like to share a preview of the nude project, to give you an idea.
Sorry to those if this isn't totally clear about the project because all I know for now is that it will be based on nudes and the technique used will be projections on bodies or on the background - thus creating an atmosphere, a story. I don't know yet if it will be a whole story or some separated shots bound only by the technique used.

Let's call this a work in progress then and do share with us when you are further with this project as we would love to see more about it.

I'll give myself some time to study this summer.

"Margaret 1"

"oM"

We will watch out for this then, thank you for sharing.

Would be really fabulous also to see a few favorites from your art nude concept and share with us why they are your favored choice ?

I must start with my first nude.

"MM 11"

I still love it, after all this time and it's quite different from the recent works, more like a shape and light study. I haven't work like that since. The pose it's quite original I think (I'm soooo modest :)) ).

I also like a more recent shot.

"Water fairy"

Very different from the first one, this is one of the reasons I've choose it. It reflects very well the way I want to continue on nudes, for a while at least (independent from the nude project I've told you about). I want to work more with colors and stories. I hope I will work exclusively on film soon, the transition is quite hard but it's extremely tempting.

Anca it has been such an insight looking at your work and styles of photography.
Thank you so much for your time on this interview and we'll continue seeing your inspiring and captivating work.

Anca Cernoschi ©

The Old and the Incredibly New !

2009-07-11T17:31:00.055+02:00

by Unbearable Lightness
UdA Artistic Director

I keep a little private stash of images I can not resist. I look at them every day, think about them, marvel over them. These are the images, old and new, I have collected over the past days and weeks.

Richard Avedon - "Dovima with Elephants"

Richard Avedon is said to have redefined fashion photography as an art with his distinctive mixing of reality with fantasy. That is exactly what we see in his series featuring high fashion model Dovima, elegantly dressed, imparting her hauteur to the majestic elephant.

I love the way the trunk of the elephant on the left completes the line created by Dovima's arms; her scarf and leg lines mesh with the elephants' leg lines. The woman and the elephants become one; in this strange and magical juxtaposition, high fashion takes on the charm of nature, of the free and wild animals in the seldom-seen world we share. What beauty, what power, what joy I feel in this wedding of artifice with the natural.

Michael Magin - "Back"
Art Model Ebony Scar

The collaboration of this German photographer and model produced this exquisitely elegant image that suggests the legacy of Richard Avedon. The little black dress, extremely low cut in the back, with only one strap visible, tells the subtle story of high fashion gone a bit wild. The chair provides a simple demi-frame for the model's perfect and pale back, the artifice of high society made possible by the beauty nature has given this woman. The clean lines, the subtlety, the quiet drama, make me think of Avedon.

Of course, this isn't Richard Avedon. It is Michael Magin and Ebony Scar. And that is what makes it so delicious - it is a new day, a beautiful day, for fashion photography as art.

DaMahl - "Kimshowers"
Art Model KimTopia

I looked at this image for days before I understood its subliminal power: the water falls on the woman's face like the shards of heaven's penetrating light sculpted by the great Bernini in his sculptural complex "Saint Theresa in Ecstasy." I visited the work in the Cornaro Chapel of the Santa Maria della Vittoria church when I lived in Rome. It was already one of my favorite sculptures, just from having seen it in art history books.

Giovanni Lorenzo Bernini
"Estasi di Santa Teresa"

Did photographer DaMahl realize he was recasting the image of sacred light falling on the face of a woman in the spiritual-erotic state of ecstasy? DaMahl messaged me to say he had studied Bernini's masterpiece of the Baroque period of art in his college Art Appreciation class. That was many years ago, and he had not thought of it since. He said the location dictated how he shot KimTopia. But I believe St. Theresa may have been in his subconscious mind because his photograph is SO similar!

It took me a while to understand why I loved it so much.

What the photographer knew is really irrelevant to our appreciation of his beautifully lighted and composed vision of a woman bathing in a shower of water that transforms into a penetrating torrent of ecstatic light.

Dave Levingston -
Art Model Kelsey Dylan

What a beautiful work in the Nude in Nature category, and how far from the pioneer work of Edward Weston this artist has come! He brings his own eye for color and nature's spectacle to Weston's signature woman - the brunette with full, natural pubic hair in the midst of the natural world that incorporates her into its beauty. I have had the privilege to work with Dave Levingston numerous times, and I hope there will be many more.

This image holds special meaning for me because I have also worked with the model. Kelsey Dylan fascinates me. She is a hoop dancer pursuing an advanced degree in alternative medicine in Seattle this fall. She wrote the other day to tell me her lineup of courses: Organic Chemistry, Introduction to Backpacking and Plant Identification, and Intro to Ayurvedic Medicine.

Kelsey is truly a child of nature, and Dave has captured that in this breathtaking image of her stretched over a rock in a pool of still water near a cascading stream.

Peter Lime - - "By the Lake"
Art Model Susana

Peter shot this anonymous torso while recently on vacation in Idanha, Portugal. Someone criticized this work in a deviantart comment, saying he wanted to see the model's face. I disagree completely. The absence of the model's identity makes this image mysterious, an element that keeps drawing me back. I have been told an anonymous nude allows the viewer to more easily enter into the work of art and feel a part of it. I don't know if this is true, but I do know I love this photograph.

Leonardo da Vinci
"Mona Lisa"

Beyond its fascinating anonymity, the image recalls the backdrop painted by Leonardo da Vinci for his compelling portrait of Mona Lisa. I saw the da Vinci connection immediately. The lake and property painted in the famous portrait proclaim the affluency of the patron who commissioned the painting, but the lake and the lush landscape beyond her may also symbolize the woman's fertility.

That is what I see in Peter's artful capture: the mystery of the life-giving woman and her mythic power in nature.

I thank our artists who carry forth the traditions of fine art in new ways - embracing what came before them while transforming fine art for a new medium and for new times.

George Schmauch (Zeitgeist Photography)

2009-07-10T09:15:00.010+02:00

You'll find George Schmauch at : his gallery at deviantART, Model Mayhem, his first feature.

"Reeperbahn 2029"
Art Models Evaine and Yarrow

"Reifenfabrik Nr 3"
Art Model Candace Nirvana -

"Rust Never Sleeps"
Art Model and Painter Yarrow

"The Fortress"
Art Model Evaine

George Schmauch (Zeitgeist Photography) ©

Lady Anais : No Justice

2009-07-09T22:07:00.064+02:00

When I noticed this photograph posted by Art Model Lady Anais on deviantart yesterday, it drew my attention from among so many photographs I view on my daily watch.

Its pervasive overtone of sadness, and the way this condition, this feeling, is so artistically expressed, made me stop and study the photograph. It strikes me as a psychological study done in the style of painterly surrealism, despite the obvious reality - the fact it is a photograph and the model is holistically posed.

So much of the work by Lady Anais tells a story, as you will see in the images below.

Dearest Grudge
"Despondency"

I downloaded the image with every intention of publishing it here on UdA. Then I proceeded to check the new journal entries of those I watch, and here was the most amazing editorial written by Lady Anais. I asked for and was granted permission to publish both the photograph and the journal entry.

Thank you so much, Lady Anais, for sharing both your physical beauty and the beauty of your mind, your thoughts.

Unbearable Lightness
UdA Artistic Director

"No Justice"

Written
by Lady Anais

This morning, I somehow remembered a common phrase among fine art/artistic nude photographers. I know they don't mean any harm, but I guess I am here to let them know...well, it does.

The phrase: Your images don't do you any justice.

Translation: I can do it better. Work with me.

I hear it time and time again. And while I don't usually say anything, I'm actually boiling inside in defense for the artwork. Ninety-five percent of the time, they can't do it better. Why? Because they have a particular style or project they want to shoot that requires certain movement, angles, and expressions.

George Mann "Curves"

Everyone has a different view on what beauty is.

Adam Ritz
"Thinking About My Lover"

What I find funny is the fact that art has no limits. There is no "right" way: Everyone knows this...but is it a habit of thought?

Paul Blieden
"Nurture"
with Art Model, Writer and Singer St Merrique

I always run across individuals who would sit with me, going through every single image, telling me what was wrong or what they would have done if it were them shooting it. For example, "I wouldn't have made your hips look so big here." Yet, I would know, from behind the image, that the reason why this is so is because of the purposeful accentuation of womanhood. To that photographer, a woman's hips are beautiful because of the womb and birth analogy.

Then they say, "Your images don't do you any justice. I'll do it much better."

But according to others, they don't do it better.

James McKinnis
"Contemplation"

For instance, there is a particular image where everything inside shows a sadness of some sort. Things are sullen and drooping, including my breasts and posture. Yet, I would have others say that they'd do it differently in order to have a more glamorous look and to make it look more appealing to the eye.

Joseph Bravata
"Relaxed. Just Me."

Yet, the whole project of that image would be destroyed if I perked up, moved in a way where things would be aligned, and had a more elegant look. The feeling of sadness would not be noticed.

So someone tries to do something better.

And then what?

The next person wants to do it better.

And then what?

OnePixArt -
"Indigo Princess"

What happened to analyzing images for their stories?

And analyzing the reasons why that artist chose to have the end result look a certain way?

No, the lighting is not bad.

No, the posture is perfect.

When so many photographers look at other images and think, "I'd do this better!" it makes me wonder what others say about their own work. What would they have done to make your image look better?

A. Villa
"Pan Restoring Life"

Lady Anais's comment on this image :

Influenced by the mythical Pan, this work was actually quite tough. The objective was to make the notion that Pan was restoring life when all else had been in ashes.

Mistaki
"Rainy Day"

I do admit that there are images out there that obviously have inexperience behind them, but even then

...instead of making negative comments, why not positive?

What did they do RIGHT?

What did you LIKE about it? Could you find a story or symbol within it?

Constructive criticism goes a long way.

Fine Art Undressed
"Standing Stretch"

Be open. Be accepting. If you think you can do something better, then do it! Don't bash other people's artwork just because you have a different style, technique, and equipment. It's not even
fair to the model who puts up the images because she/he sees something wonderful in it and knows the story behind it. When criticizing a model's portfolio, your comment reflects not only on the work of that photographer but also the model's hard work.

OnePixArt

Sometimes I feel photographers do not understand this. I may be a model, but I know how to appreciate an image and analyze it. I know all about symbolism, lighting, and artistic projects.

"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder."

I so agree with you - indeed, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. As for my eye, I admire your beauty, of course, and also the versatility in your modeling and storytelling. Furthermore, your words resonate with me, and I am sure with many other models. We have all most likely heard, from time to time, "I could have done this better" and felt the smart of the unintended insult inherent in the remark.

Your new work, "Despondency," could very well be my favorite among all these incredibly beautiful works. It rises to the heights of fine art in its complexity, its classic surrealistic style, and in the purity and honesty of your modeling. Congratulations!
~UL

Mistaki
"Sensual Eyes"

Lady Anais

Isobella Jade : her life, her books !

2009-07-09T09:11:00.019+02:00

Based in New York, USA, Isobella Jade is a model, the author of "Almost 5'4", hence her height. Her graphic novel "Model Life" is due fall 2009. She writes daily about the modeling industry from a shorter girl's perspective.

by Robert Caldarone

You may find her at : her official site, her very active blog, Barnes&Noble to order her books, her YouTube Channel, her model talk radio.

Isobella, you're a renowned model and you're also an author who has published two books (the second in October), "Almost 5'4" and "Model Life", available at Barnes&Noble. Congratulations ! I know what a publication means.
I would like some words more about the process of creation of each of them : " how did the story begin ?..." Seen by You.

The story of these two books starts when I was really struggling as a model actually. However, at the time, any small success I had found was inspiring and if I ever had a chance to tell my story I had to be brutally honest about it.

So both of these books involved my adventures as a model and I show it in a very honest way. I do not shy away from revealing the grit. We have all heard the stories of girls being discovered on the streets of Paris, and I small towns in Kentucky , but I felt my own was about a different type of modeling. One that involves being self-made. Without an agent, without the fabulous photographers to meet and greet, without the glamour and more about the honest shit that happens when you are trying to be who you want to be.

by Robert Caldarone

As a shorter model I have had to use other things to get ahead.

The most important thing has involved knowing how to market myself, not being afraid to skip the middle-man and simply taking a chance. I have had to art direct my shoots, mail, re-mail, try again and again, mail magazines, editors, agents, and I can’t tell you how many No’s I have heard. However I focus on the “yes” getting the next “yes” and I live for the chase.

I truly believe I am the shortest model out there working.

The title of my memoir is "Almost 5’4” but I am a couple inches shorter than that next to a measuring stick.

My graphic novel "Model Life", due this fall, was inspired by the growth of girls who want to be models these days, ten years ago it was not like this.

The internet has changed everything. However being a model takes more than just posting your photo on the internet. Modeling is a challenge, being one and working with great brands, but honestly if it was easy I might be bored with it. I like the chances that are involved with my pursuits.

Modeling is a choice for me, it is not my only option, I want to be here, at the casting, modeling this product, and I am ready to stay overtime if needed to get the job done."

by Joey Quintero

Almost 5'4"
Her original modeling memoir

Available here

Synopsis at Barnes&Noble :

" When she was nineteen she posted her photo on a free Internet modeling website unaware of the risk, passion and self discovery that would follow. From that day, being a college student in New York City wasn't exciting anymore and instead being a model in New York City sounded so much better. Despite her slim chances of getting a modeling agent based on her height, she grabbed her bootstraps and used the Internet to promote herself. Except after months of running in-between her college classes to shoot with amateur photographers in their basements, penthouses, and living rooms it was inevitable that one day her mother would see her naked on the Internet. After this embarrassment she had no other choice but to change her name to Isobella. With her new name, now giving up before she made something of her self wasn't an option. Two years later, after graduation, Isobella only had three magazine tear sheets and one lead role in a music video, but it is enough to convince her to not be sucked into the corporate world and to keep trying to model. Even if it meant giving up stability and most of her belongings, going homeless and becoming her own agent, all while fighting the doubt given to her along the way. Her story, first typed at the Apple Store on Prince Street in SoHo New York City, will inspire you to try any dream you have had."

Inside the new one to come in October 1 : "Model Life"

Model Life

A fictional graphic novel based on her experiences in modeling, illustrated by Jazmin Ruotolo

Will be available : here

Synopsis from Barnes&Noble :

"Isobella Jade, a student at the New York Institute of Technology, begins exploring the possibility of working as a lingerie model — despite her nontraditional height of 5'4”. A Google search leads her to ads posted on Craigslist, and soon Jade finds herself turning up at private apartments for model shoots that more often than not turn out to be seedy, disappointing, and sometimes downright dangerous.

After she is sliced across the eyebrow in a fight with a sleazy so-called fashion photographer who will not respect her boundaries in a photo shoot, Jade decides that she's finished with answering ads on Craigslist. She’s determined to get professional, get an agent, and become a real model.

Model Life reveals her glamorous and not-so-glamorous on-the-job experiences in New York City. From her first photo shoot and her close brushes with soft porn to her appearances in ad campaigns for national retailers and magazines, this height-challenged model shares her past in an edgy, illustrated exposé. The original story of the ultimate underdog, Model Life is a celebration of the self-discovery that comes with being self-made and the triumph of beating the odds."

Isobella Jade ©

"Fashion will always hate the short chicks, but as advertising calls for more types of models more opportunities will arise," she said. "The average American female is shorter than 5 foot 4 inches, and I don’t think she would mind if a shorter girl modeled the clothing in the ad campaign. Modeling is more about marketing than being perfect or a certain height. That, and the 'being discovered' thing is over. It is all about discovering yourself."

Al Calkins, Two Years Later

2009-07-08T04:57:00.033+02:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Univers d'Artistes !

By Unbearable Lightness
and Chris St James
with Al Calkins, photographer

"Jesspond"

Al Calkins was featured on UdA on July 9, 2007, when the magazine was only two days old... A little baby with an unknown destiny and a lot of love and passion to help him to find his way in such a troubled world.

He's a boy ! Don't ask me why. Maybe because he loves the strong articles against censorship, his fight for our freedom of expression, like our ancestors, the words instead of guns.

He has grown, and Carrie Leigh's NUDE too, together, if we forget the Atlantic Ocean between them. He's still young ! With so much to learn.

Then is arrived Unbearable Ligthness ! He needed to see better, both sides of the human being. A woman and a man to take care of him ?! What luck ! Incredible... Re-united, he began to change. He's no more the same. And so happy to share !

"Motherhood"

Each of you, with your comments, through your eyes, and your so kind and appreciated participations, followers, readers, contributing artists and editors, each of you teaches him how wonderful life is, how much Art is our essence and we need Beauty, how much he's right to keep going on and on, always ravished, speechless, the mouth full of huge WOWs! and a lot of thanks.

"ACV"

As a celebration of the second birthday of Univers d'Artistes,

here are some outstanding artworks from one of the first featured artists : Al Calkins.

Al Calkins ©

Les enfoirés - Aimer à perdre la raison
by Louis Aragon et Jean Ferrat

Interpreted by a lot of great French Artists for a noble cause :

Les Restaurants du Coeur

Reminder ! Minon Minon : "naked view" self-portraits Exhibition, Berlin

2009-07-07T19:12:00.000+02:00

Don't miss Minon Minon's first exhibition "naked view" :

From july 10th, 2009 : opening 19:00
To july 11st, 2009 : 14:00 - 18:00

At Ballhaus Ost (Hinterhof, 3. Etage)
Pappelallee 15
Berlin, Germany

"Trust me"

"All I need..."

Minon Minon ©

Her first feature
All her articles

Rest In Peace Michaël. :)

2009-07-07T18:22:00.002+02:00

I don't know who you were... Someone special if I believe all what I saw, heard, read about you ! A strange man, nobody really knows, except you, but there is a thing I'm sure : you were a true Artist, a pionneer, a winner, a worker, an example.
Today, you're on the good way to become a myth, with Elvis, another King, and so many more. A "post-modern" visionary as they say. Out of fashion, I'll say.
I will be 50 this year. Like you. And I know you since my childhood, you began so young, one of your greatest concerns, don't worry, you'll have the answer.
Now, dear Artist, these times are over.
Be sure that our world will keep your talent, all your very best !
Look how beautiful you were !
Keep it cool. :)
And see you soon !

Ciaran Whyte's interview

2009-07-07T10:00:00.000+02:00

Ciaran Whyte

" Being an artist is so much more than just knowing the rules. I'm continually amazed and inspired by some amazing photographers and models that produce art way above and beyond what I do today. But I hope to get there one day :)"

Interviewed by Jan Murphy
UdA Art Editor and Photographer

I was recently told about an Ireland based photographer by the name of Ciaran Whyte.

When looking at his work, it became clear that he was a very amazing artist and one that was happy to work hard to get the correct model for the image and/or message he was trying to convey.

He has worked with some amazing models and his work does truly show you a range of styles, forever evolving and I really would like you to hear the rest from the artist himself.

You'll find him on his official site (with his blog), Net Model, Model Mayhem, deviantART.

"Holly"
Art Model Ivory Flame

What I love about your work Ciaran is that it seems totally unpretentious - this is what pulled me into your images. When I read more about you, I can see that you REALLY enjoy what you do, you love the fun aspect but you take your work very seriously.

"Diptych"
Art Model Monilicious

Yes, I really do love photography. In "real" life I have my own business, which can be very demanding both in terms of time and also work load. I started shooting 5 years ago, when the business was just 2 years old and really just in it's infancy.

What started out as a hobby, something to do in my down time, soon became an obsession. Now, it's my only release.

It's an outlet, which is so completely removed from what I do day to day and I enjoy it thoroughly. I enjoy the whole process, from the technical aspects of taking an image through to the art of it.

As for taking things seriously, this probably spills over from my working personality. From taking my first image, right through to the last one I've taken, I've always wanted to improve, so I've worked hard at it. This probably makes me come across quite serious - possibly more than I really am :)

"Madame Bink"
Art Model Madame Bink

What was it about photography that drew you to it ? Or did the art find you ?

I'm not ashamed to admit, that it was the gadget freak in me that drew me to photography originally.

When dSLR's came down to a reasonable price point, I rushed out and bought one - a Nikon D70 at the time. This was my first ever camera and I really just wanted it as a toy. But as soon as I started to delve into photography I started to love images.
As for "art"... well this is something that came much later. For the first few years I only ever really focused on the technical aspects of photography. Sure I followed the rules of composition etc. but I never really thought about the art of photography.

Now that I feel comfortable with the technicalities of capturing an image, I've started to try and develop my artistic side. I find this quite rewarding (at times) but also extremely frustrating. Being an artist is so much more than just knowing the rules. I'm continually amazed and inspired by some amazing photographers and models that produce art way above and beyond what I do today. But I hope to get there one day :)

"Iveta"
Art Model Iveta Niklova -

I really love the images with the stunning effect such as 'Monika' (shown here) - they really stand out to me. Would you share with us your favourite from this set and tell us a little about how and why you decided to do these works ?

"Monika"
Art Model Monilicious

In Ireland, we have a photographic federation which is called the Irish Photographic Federation (IPF), very similar to the Royal Photographic Society (RPS) in the UK. These societies offer various levels of distinctions to it's members, where you submit panels of images for accreditation. Your panel is judged and if it is successful you are awared a distinction.
There are 3 levels of award with different requirements for each level. Once you have received one, you are then allowed go forward for the second and then on to the third. This body of work was for my Fellowship panel (the highest accreditation), which I'm delighted to say was successful back in April.

"Montage"

I decided to opt for natural light, artistic nude images, with no styling or make-up (well maybe just a little make-up). The texture was something I added to try and make the images my own, something I've added to the image.

I wanted the panel to be viewed as art as opposed to a simple set of photographs and I certainly think the texture overlay helped achieve that goal.

As for my favourite image, it's probably the one you linked to of Monika. Unlike most of the models in the panel, I hadn't worked with Monika before and I was blown away by how beautiful she was. So yes.. probably that image out of them all :)

You can see here my whole fellowship panel and my previous panels here : Associateship and Licentiatship

The models you worked with have a specific look yet they are all so unique too. Why did you choose the ones you did and do feel free to share a little about those you shot with ?

I tend to work with models that focus primarily on artistic nude, as opposed to other genre's like glamour, fetish or erotic (although some models do cross over into these genres). I'm interested in trying to create beautiful images as opposed to sexy or sassy images, so pure art nude models are the perfect fit for the shots I'm trying to create.

It's a pretty small community in Ireland/UK and I've been really lucky with the models I've worked with so far. At this stage now, I've probably shot with over 40 models, primarily from the UK. Obviously I can't name them all... but I would like to say a big thanks to them regardless, because my images really are nothing without them. However there are a few whom I either continue to work with time and time again or ones that have made me think "wow" :

Art Model Ivory Flame

My all time favourite model has to be Ivory Flame - an Oxford based model. Ivory is the ultimate art nude model... beautiful (inside and out), graceful, elegant... everything ! Ivory Flame's images continue to inspire me.

"Morning Light"

Art Model Madame Bink

A model that frequently works with Ivory Flame, her partner in crime so to speak, is Madame Bink, another UK model and another outstanding model.

"The female Christ"
Art Model Iveta Niklova

Others of note are Iveta Niklova , who's featured on your site before.

"Feral"
Art Model and Illustrator Ulorin Vex -

"Kayt"

Art Model Kayt Webster Brown

"Ballet"
Art Model KatyT

Katy T, originally from the UK but now lives and work in the US but travels back to Europe once a year.

On your website you cover Street Photography and Places to name two other categories. Where do you feel most comfortable with your photography ? Or do you see that you have more then one niche so to speak ?

"Behind the wire" - Iran

Ever since I started shooting, I've been shooting people.

This is my main and possibly only personal interest in photography.

At the start I worked with models, simply until I had a grasp of the basics of capturing an image. From there I went out into the big bad world and started shooting on the streets.
I found it very easy if I have to be honest and had no problems approaching complete strangers asking them could I take their picture. I think this direct engagement with the people I was shooting added a lot to my images. So where ever I travel, I tend to bring my camera with me, walk the streets and capture the people I meet.

One great example of this was where I travelled to Iran spending two weeks travelling the length of the country shooting the people there.

Art Model Hannah Ashlea

But, as much as I love street photography, I don't find it as rewarding as working with models, simply because I'm not exercising my creative side as much. So I guess you could say I'm more comfortable at the moment in my model photography.

I enjoy the whole creative process from planning the shoot, choosing the model, the styling, the location, the lighting and the mood of the shot. This is something I don't get from street photography. But I'm hoping to try and combine both disciplines in the future.. watch this space :)

Ciaran, I would love you to tell to our readers some thoughts/tips/experiences, or just words of wisdom before you head back to creating beautiful artwork.

"Steps"
Art Model Ella Rose

This is a tough one ! I'm pretty good at giving specific technical advice or debating a technical point about photography, but I still feel very much a novice when it comes to "artistic" photography so it's hard to share any thoughts or offer any advice.

One thing that has certainly helped my photography and helped me enjoy this hobby which I love, is the models that have worked with me. So I guess I'd offer the suggestion that people should try and book and work with these models (not necessarily the ones I've named.. but models in general).

The models I know, spend so much time away from family and friends, travelling the length and breadth of their own countries as well as travelling internationally... all for very little renumeration. I think it's important that photographers support these people financially, by offering them work where they can. I know most of the models, model primarily because they love their art, but the income helps ensure they can devote their time to it and stay modelling for a longer time. So it's win, win for all of us.

"Polaroid"
Art Model Monilicious

Could you choose three of your all time favourite images and tell us why ?

Three of my all time favourites... you don't ask for much :) I won't order these if that's OK ? And I'm sure if you asked me on a different day, these would change :)

The first one I'll choose is this B&W portrait of Lloyd. This was from my first and so far only shoot with a male model. It was a completely different experience, but one I really enjoyed. This shot has probably been published more than any others and has been in more exhibitions too. Unfortunately Lloyd doesn't have a website that I can provide links to :

'Lloyd. A Portrait'
Art Model Lloyd

The second one and another B&W is one of Kayt Webster Brown. Kayt is an incredibly expressive model. I remember the sheer thrill and adrenaline rush I experienced when I was shooting her. I know I've said this about Ivory Flame, but Kayt's work and in particular her work with Paul Godfrey continues to amaze and inspire me. I was due to work with her again this year, but unfortunately the snow got in the way ! So hopefully I'll get the opportunity again in the future :

"Kayt in monochrome"
Art Model Kayt Webster Brown

For the third, I'll opt for this shot of Lou. It was terrible weather on the day and we all feared we wouldn't get any images at all. This was grabbed quickly between a short break in the weather and it just all worked :

"A break in the clouds"

Art Model Lou

Is there anything else that you wish to share with us ?

I think I've blabbed on for long enough. I just want to say thanks again for asking me :)

Thank you for your time, your inner thoughts, your passion and for sharing a part of you today. It has been most insightful. Speak soon and see you sooner am sure.

I Believe in Angels, collective exhibition

2009-07-07T03:42:00.024+02:00

by Unbearable Lightness
UdA Artistic Director

Digital image by Beautifire

(Amelia) Katarzyna Rzeszowska

Alcholado - "Angels II"

Andrew J Baran

S. Edward (DPX)
Art Model Empowered

François Benveniste - "Fountain of Grace"
Contributing Artist published in
Art Model Liloo

Carlos Gil Gamundi
"Angel"
Art Model Dark Moon

Carlos Gil Gamundi
"Love en Gomiel 2"
Art Models Dark Moon and Johanna Glam

Larisa Dydorova - "Angels"

Larisa Dydorova - "Love Day"

Vladimir Borowicz
"No Tiene Importancia, Dice"

Vladimir Borowicz
"Blinded by the Light"

B/W from the East

2009-07-06T09:36:00.022+02:00

Zanzib

" школьный роман" ("School Novel")

" клетка" ("Cell")

Andrejs Paulis
aka Haiduks

"Padjenije angela"

"Zabitaja kukla"

Martin Dimitrov
Click on his portrait for his official site.

Elena Vladyko

" куда приводят мечты" ("Which leads dreams")

Ruslan Lobanov

"Sex and fish"

"Sea of love"

The Beautiful Back

2009-07-06T08:00:00.003+02:00

by Unbearable Lightness
UdA Artistic Director

It has been on my mind ever since I saw the raw files of my shoot in New Orleans with Michael Siu : a woman's back is so beautiful, so graceful, so curvaceous, and exquisitely sensual.

I love, I adore, I worship the human body. It is a miracle. People with perfect backs should look at them and give thanks for them. We take too much for granted about ourselves. Celebrate everything! The back, the lowly feet, the eyes, the soul.

Love your self - completely - everything. Not as Narcissus, but as someone who loves the great creations of nature.

A number of our contributing artists have paid tribute to this glorious part of the human anatomy in some of their work. So here it is, captured by our artists...

...the beautiful back.

Massalo - -"0906"

Andre J - - "Back Inside"
Art Model Nikki

Nad Iksodas -
"As the Light Goes"
Art Model Lela Rae -

Self portrait by Spilt Sugar
"Back in Black and White"

Stephen Haynes -
"Mayan Weave"

Matthew Scherfenberg -
"Tan Tube"
Art Model Heather

John Running
"The Sculptor Stand"
Art Model Natalia

Richard Tallent
Art Model Nettie R Harris

Self portrait by Laysa
- "Sunset"

Dave Levingston -
"Dirty"
Art Model Kelsey Dylan

François Benveniste - "The Bath"
Contributing Artist published in
Art Model Liloo

Peter Lime -
"Vacations 05 Alentejo Fields"

Jason Tag -
"World AIDS Day"

PWPimages - "Pearls"
Art Model AlexB -

Lohey, first feature

2009-07-05T10:40:00.031+02:00

A Sunday

With Lohey !

"Lohey smiles"

It's not usual, it's even the first time, I believe, check (1450 articles, good luck !), that I publish a text so... deep and high. But Lohey is also a photographer ! And so much more... Lohey "... is an illusion...", as he says himself.

Why a so long and so different a text in these columns totally devoted to the Art of the Photography (who is the artist, what he does, where does he come from, but where does he finds such an inspiration ?...) ? Because I'm also a writer... Before I was an Editor. I love both of course !!! And I'm working hard to unify these two passions !...

In a period of severe troubles, with so many amazing projects, these wonderful words have appeared in my life. And I feel better. With a delicious wish to run... Like Forrest.

So, why ?! Because the paralyzed man wants to share with you this incredible soft moment of tenderness, the French poet his enchantment for such wonderful words of peace and hope, the pure philosopher his agreement, the obsessive writer his coup de chapeau. And the so careful editor his "look" on a beautiful Artist's work.

That's all folks ! Now, you're are ready to read. And admire. Lohey ! Welcome on board.

"I'm creating myself"
Human being : Ch'Amanita

" Si jeu veux être chaman, alors jeu le suis maintenant... car il n'y a pas d'autre réalité que maintenant. If I mean to be a shaman, then I am one now... cause there is no other reality but now." Lohey

You'll find Lohey at : his official site, this other one, his space at deviantART.

"Rage against the Machine"
Human being Christelle

" Jeu ne serai plus esclave ! I won't be a slave anymore !" Lohey

« To put an end to outward war, you must begin to put an end to war in yourself. Some of you will nod your heads and say, “ I agree”, and go outside and do exactly the same as you have been doing for the last ten or twenty years. Your agreement is merely verbal and has no significance, for the world miseries and wars are not going to be stopped by your casual assent.
They will be stopped only when you realize the danger, when you realize your responsibility, when you do not leave it to somebody else.
If you realize the suffering, if you see the urgency of immediate action and do not postpone, then you will transform yourself.
Peace will come only when you yourself are peaceful, when you yourself are at peace with your neighbour. »
Krishnamurti Jiddu

"Integrity"
Human being : Elodie

" Libre comme l'air et enracinée à mes valeurs, jeu suis tellement magnifique... Free as the wind and rooted on my values, I'm so wonderful..."

"Trusting you"
Human Being : Elodie

" J'apprends... I'm learning to..."

Aimer

" I love you... body and soul together... If you show me yourself, then I love yourself ! Do you think I have a choice ? How could I close my eyes ? I don't have any !

I caress your mind. Why do you judge it ? I talk to your breast. Why do you judge them ? Too little, too big, too ugly ? Thoughts... comparisons... thoughts... authority... thoughts... Have you touched or tasted them ? The three of them ?

I lick the curve of your expressed intentions and I faint, I disappear in the waves of your shivers. I see you, accept you, take you, talk to you, put you under light and sensations, touch you. An encounter where I don't fear you, I don't fear me. What are you scared about ? There is only you. Or me... what difference ? Why would that be important ?

I let my breath dawdle on your words, I skim through the reflection of your sex. In love, no judgment, no separation... Don't you see that One starts when there is no more tension between two, between three, between forty, between one billion, no fear anymore ?

You want your pleasure and you want to fulfill your needs... but you are so much more. You want to be respected but you disrespect yourself each second.... In my eyes amazed of the whole you, you see your own defects, separated from your own qualities... You separate yourself ! Then you mime some future path, that you've been taught, conditioned to. You have fantasies about serious projects of future accomplishments. So you despise your present ! You tell yourself stories, you turn yourself into a kid... a mental-embalmed mummy.

"Bow"
Human Being : Morgana

"Jeu suis d'accord d'avoir des noeuds seulement si c'est de l'art sur ma peau... Sinon, jeu suis libre ! I'm ok to have bow only if it's art on my skin... else I am free !"

"Clean from stuff"
Human Being : Alixia

" Jeu me nettoie de ces choses et objets qui me possédaient... I'm cleaning myself from things, objects that used to possess me : [link]"

When will you face yourself the way you actually are, you and me ? With your fat and your ugly behaviours... your scars and your past... your diseases and your immaturity. Let all this melt in the intensity of our union, the union of us all... all humans. Let all this finally found something else than this dual and pretentious morality. The same that creates wars and paths to get to them.

Words explode suffers and reveal them... Were there not already in you before ? Words explode suffers because there are both illusions... the climax of the matter that amazes the white light and make it see colors...

You think you're important... but you're so much more than that ! So much more than this idea ! You're the whole humanity, only if you accept to be loved without hiding, without judging. If you accept to be seen naked, your nature facing storms, fires, earthquakes, tsunamis.

"Cute"
Human being : Jessy

" Certaines expressions humaines sont simplement adorables... et l'environnement aide. Some human expressions are just cute... and the environment helps."

"Power of lightness"
Human Being : Mahéva

" Jeu peux ajouter de la légèreté même sur les situations les plus lourdes... I can add lightness on top of even the hardest situation..."

You hide, then you judge! You avoid, then you judge ! You deny, then you judge ! You complain, then you judge ! I love you... body and soul and humanity, with no judgment. But if I would accept to watch what you wanna show, then I would cheat with you. We'd lie to ourselves again... So I penetrate you and reach this core that is no longer your property, that is not your own prudery anymore.

I touch life behind your appearances !

"Contact"
Human being : Alixia

" A chaque instant jeu peux redécouvrir le monde... Each instant I can discover the world again..."

You think you're cold or hot ? But you are the Temperature ! You think you're ugly or beautiful ? But you are the Vision ! You think you're sad or happy ? But you're the Source of emotions !

You think you're human ? Why do you only think it ?

You think you're important ? You're the creator of importance, a game of the ego !

"Choosing Softness"
Human Being : Barbara

" Le monde entier est pure douceur si jeu le choisis ainsi ! The all world is pure softness if I choose it so !"

"Diving"
Human being : Stéphanie

" Plonger au coeur de moi me ramènera à la vie... Diving inside of me will put me back to life..."

I reveal my skin on yours, my muscles under your claws, my tenderness under your anger... I remember who I was, who I am, and who I will be, when I look deep into your limitations. Your limitations are beautiful... like a growing child. I carry them in the core of my heart, and you don't want to see them, you run away... you erase yourself !

But you can only run away from yourself... you never lose anything but yourself. You're the only one on earth ! You're the only one when you're loved... as you ARE love.

Quit crying, quit tearing you apart... It's beautiful ! Only beautiful... And you, you are the ocean and also the earth hugging it !"

"Fully adapted"
Human being : Barbara

"Elle s'est souvenue comment être humaine en harmonie avec la nature... She recalled how to be human in harmony with nature..."

Lohey

The original article in french