catalyst: jody + matty

The weather is turning cold here in Portland, and before hibernation begins, I feel compelled to reminisce in a sun-drenched evening among dear friends that wasn’t too long ago. Even though this kind of warmth feels decades away, it was October sun, which always seems a little bit sweeter before the gray descends. We headed to The Dalles and enjoyed an evening of friendship, music, beauty and late autumn light surrounded by rolling hills. Shooting in an expansive landscape with big skies is something I absolutely love to do and hold dear.  
Late November, I posted a little something about a new project of mine, called cat·a·lyst, where I acknowledge people that have caused some type of change in my life, or perhaps I just want to let you know about these individuals and their artistic talents, share a story, or give thanks.  Allow me to introduce two of my own personal catalysts, Jody and Matty. They are creative powerhouses. Jody and Matty immerse themselves in music, and Jody also creates beautiful, vibrant paintings, and Matty some of the most gorgeous pieces out of wood and metal. 

My first meeting of these two included them bringing over a collection of homegrown vegetables and a warm welcome to my new neighborhood. This first interaction says a lot about them – they are salt of the earth, engaged in their community, and meet newness with open arms. Since then, they have grown from neighbors to kindred spirits, and perhaps without their knowledge, they have been memorable teachers for me. They have taught me how important it is to get back to the roots of things, the value of togetherness, and how life can be rich with artful experiences, all while helping me find the courage to accept the creative lifestyle that I love to live. These soulful songbirds also remind me that especially during difficult times, the small, simple moments – in nature and with others, can be the most precious.

Forgive me for being long-winded. I guess I had a lot to say about these two. I hope you enjoy the photographs from our evening, celebrating their affection for music, nature, friendship and each other. 

(Click on the photos to view larger. I think they look nicer that way). 

To learn more about the premise of this project, please feel free to click here.

To learn more about Jody’s work, please visit here, here or here.

To learn more about Matty’s work, please visit here or here.

cat·a·lyst

I feel grateful all year long. But, it is this time of year when I am reminded in a powerful way of the amazing people that grace my life. And for that, I feel very lucky. Because when difficulty comes your way, it is not things, but individuals that help you through it all, sometimes in a crucial way, and sometimes in a minute fashion that make your days a little bit brighter. Large or small, they both hold great importance for me. Despite the whirlwind of holiday madness, I am awakened by the strength of togetherness and am thankful for those who take care of me – near and far, with and without their knowledge. I am always an advocate for taking time to savor what truly matters, and to slow down. Yet, I am guilty of not doing it enough.

Because of that, I decided I would take time to notice and acknowledge the individuals that have made a difference for me. Maybe I want to give them thanks, or let you know about their artistic talents, or just share a little story. I love having an ongoing project. Some of you might be familiar with my collaborative “hello” project that I did last year. (Even though we miss her so, I am happy to report that beautiful muse is now taking flight in Germany). So, I am excited to introduce a personal project of mine, cat·a·lyst, hopefully to grow in 2011. A catalyst is loosely defined as something that causes change. I’d like to share with you the people that have caused change in my life – taught me lessons, created cause and effect, or precipitated an action or reaction that has catapulted me in a new direction.  Coming soon. Stay tuned.