L U M E N   N E W S

 
I N S P I R A T I O N  *  I N F O R M A T I O N  *  I N V I T A T I O N S

M A R C H   2 0 1 2
 

Warm greetings.
 
The last edition of "Lumen News" generated notes from many of you, renewed connections, valued suggestions, and much encouragement.

Thank you! 
 
I write to provide further updates ...  

Recent Workshops 

In February and early March, I led photography workshops in Death Valley, San Francisco, and Point Reyes - all greatly enjoyed. 

In Death Valley, we shared a beautiful full moon, stunning sunsets and sunrises, and the captivating quiet and color of the desert. 

The schedule produced little sleep and many cherished memories. 

A few images from these wanderings ...











New Photography Website 
 
Over the last few weeks, I developed a new, separate web site from Lumen's site that is focused solely on photography.  The site provides sample documentary and fine art imagery, highlights from new photography projects, information about exhibits and workshops, and an expanded print catalog. 

If you wish to take a quick tour, please click on:

www.jeffreydavisphotography.com


A while back ... 

While working on this new web site, I came upon a picture that may produce a touch of laughter within your day.

That's me on the right of the image below.  I am working with a group of Tibetan children at a large school in Northern India ...



I remember the day well.  One of the kids asked me "What's a frog?"  Then, he paused, smiled, and said: "How do these funny shaped animals move from place to place?" 

Apparently, he had never seen a big frog in Tibet. 

Of course, I engaged the group in an important educational experience.  A playful, joyful moment evolved. 


 
Expanded Fine Art Collection 
 
At the end of 2011, for the first time, I released a Holiday Collection of eighteen fine art images.  The positive response far exceeded my anticipation.  This original collection has been expanded to include sixty images.  

These images may be viewed on-line at this link: 

 
If you scroll down to the thumbnail pictures on this web page, you can quickly browse through the print options and click any image to enlarge the picture.  If you prefer to download a PDF to view the images on your own desktop, there is a link at the bottom of this same web page to access this resource.  It's a large file, so I hope the download will not be too cumbersome (connection speed helps).  Other images shown on my website may also be available upon request.

All feedback on this image collection is welcome and appreciated.  I am exploring a number of new directions.  Sometimes, my heart pulls and tugs with the inspiration, possibility, and mystery of creative work.  

If you wish to explore the purchase of a fine art print in the near term, I am pleased to offer a $100 discount on each print to all individuals who receive this newsletter and purchase images between now and March 31st, 2012. 
Please call or write me if you wish to pursue this option.  Pricing is highlighted at the end of the PDF. 

Yosemite, Tibet/Nepal, And Iceland Workshops 

Please consider joining me for one or more of these upcoming travel workshops.  Note: the Iceland trip in September has only a few slots remaining.

Here's a link to workshop overviews:

Jeff's 2012 Workshop Listing

Call or write to discuss any of these options.


A Lingering Midnight Sunset - Northwest Iceland 

REI Presentations 

In February, I provided presentations on Iceland at three REI stores in the Bay Area - Corte Madera, Saratoga, and San Francisco. 

Fifty to ninety people attended each session.  I shared imagery from Iceland and spoke about the character and wonder of travel on this scenic, volcanic island. 
Great fun. 

Last week, REI asked for more presentations.  We are considering three to five new shows in the Fall of 2012. 

 
 
 
Lumen Production Company  
 
Lumen, my company, remains focused on a range of media, advocacy, and management consulting initiatives.  

Education, Health, Child Welfare, The Environment, Human Rights, and other causes are central themes in many of these engagements.  To support the journey, I continue to spend a portion of my time working with commercial companies as well.  These projects involve strategy, business development, and general management.     



New Role As Interim Executive Director 
 
I recently agreed to serve in an interim leadership role (roughly half time) with a new, innovative non-profit organization focused on children's health. 

The programs produced by this organization are titled "The A-Games."  The founder, George Selleck, is a legendary athlete, coach, teacher, and child development specialist.
  He believes strongly in the importance of empowering children to drive their own athletic and health experience in schools and communities.  At the heart of this strategy is play, fun, and measurable outcomes.  The organization has prototype programs on the West and East Coast.  

We are currently working to refine the "A-Games" design, craft a compelling business plan, test a range of concepts, and develop funding to expand the program nationally.  

In many ways, George is an inspiration.  I am fortunate to be a part of a small team driving this exploration and high impact vision.

March 9th, 2013 - Save This Date 

In March of 2013, a large exhibit of my images from across the world will open at Mumm Napa Winery.  The current theme for this presentation is "Serenity, Spirit, and Wonder."  Mumm will present this work in the winery's Fine Art Photography Gallery which holds a permanent selection of Ansel Adams photographs.  The show will be in place for six months. 
I feel fortunate. 

Yes.  There will be a party!  Think great champagne, food, time with friends in Napa Valley, and a tour of large colorful prints. 

Invitations at a later date. 

As a side note on this project, I am exploring corporate partnerships for this exhibit. 
70,000 visitors are expected during the six month show.  Private events for a sponsor's clients, corporate presentations, a partnership with Mumm, and special artwork purchase options are part of a potential sponsorship package.  If you are aware of any promising possibilities, let me know.   

Parting Reflections 

I will finish by sharing one last memory from Death Valley ...



This image, which I titled "Cloud Fire," was taken from Dante's Peak just before sunrise.  It reminds me of a quote by Proust:

The real voyage consists not in seeing new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

A child's eyes and way of seeing are so often open, curious, fresh, and powerful.  Emotion is rarely tied to yesterday, tomorrow, or later today.  The wonder, hope, and exploration of the present moment roars. 

Experiences throughout my life that cause me to pause, appreciate, and engage in this state of child-like wonder remain a gift. 

May you find these moments often!

Best wishes,

Jef
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About Jeffrey Davis

Jeff is an award winning Public Television Producer, early-stage Documentary Film Director, General Manager, and passionate Photographer, Advocate, Non Profit Fund Raiser, Wilderness Fan, Athlete, Lifelong Student, and Teacher.  When he gets older, he plans to focus his work, creative endeavors, and play more tightly.  Laughter.