| Some years ago, I had the pleasure of attending an exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria of the works of an artist new to me. Her name is Annemieke Mein and she lives in Sale, country Victoria, with her family. The work on show consisted of items I would have, then, regarded as craft and probably not bothered to have a look at, despite my interest in all arts including handcrafts and the fact the exhibition was held at the NGV, usually an indication that the work had merit, at the least, and most likely would be excellent enough to stimulate our imaginations and interest, otherwise they would not have been on show there. Well, I am glad I decided to go into that particular exhibition gallery as my ignorance about the potential to turn ‘craft’ into ‘artwork’ was quietly and unashamedly dispelled at that moment, after viewing Ms Mein’s work.
Taking plenty of time to view each piece from all angles, and just gazing at it transfixed, I was in awe of her talent! Her way of seeing, and her sewing skill, had allowed her to produce such phenomenal sculptural works on a flat surface I’d never seen before, nor seen since. Her work is unique; her talent is unique, a word that is usually over-used but, in this case, is truly warranted. If I’d had the money, I would have purchased something of hers to treasure forever. All I managed to obtain was a bookmark showing a now classic image of open-mouthed bird chicks in a nest, and I have used it frequently as it’s one of my favourite bookmarks (I do a lot of reading) — refer to the Wikipedia link above to information on Ms Mein to see this image and you’ll see why I adore it. The image with this post is from the cover of her book, available on Amazon. Even ‘though it is ‘greyed-out’ a little, I guess to protect copyright, the colours look faded; however, I think you can still see the beauty of the works and, if you have imagination, can have an idea of what they actually look like. Have a look inside the book to see more examples of this wonderful work, and especially the back cover as it shows some early works. I heartily concur, many times over… |
Category Archives: Art & Design
In the local vernacular made popular by one of Australia’s music industry icons, Molly Meldrum, “Do yourselves a favour, and go and buy the book or, if possible if you’re lucky, go and see an exhibition of Annemieke Mein’s work that is showing in a gallery near you and buy something!”A bit of fun two
 Fun for me, too, is holding and looking through high quality magazines, especially on the subject of photography. They are a rarity…hence, whenever I come across an item of good quality, I like to keep it where I can see it, and touch it, and leaf through it at my leisure.
One such magazine is Black + White, an Australian gem! And, despite its title, it does include colour photographs, usually on the front cover, as well as linked to some feature articles and advertisements. Featured photographers often are those just emerging in the industry and sometimes those better known, too. The vignette accompanying this post includes the front cover of issue 87 nov06. Its front cover featured subject, ms Toni Collette, is one of my favourite Australian actors, and the article and photographs of her appear from page022 in that issue. The vignette image was taken on my old LG cellphone.. |
Composition: Shape
Photography is not something I like to expound upon as I know that I know very little, really! And others do it much better than I ever could! However, just recently I came across a post by another WordPress photography blogger on the subject of the difference between ‘form’ and ‘shape’ within photos. He gave a link on the subject, but I found a much better link from within that link. Here it is: http://www.photographyicon.com/shape/
The article on Shape within photographs is succinct and provides photographic examples, the sign of a good school!
I personally aim for a minimalistic approach, as you will see if you visit my photoblog, jmnartsy.com. For me, less is always more, especially if the compositional aspect has been considered thoughtfully. You may search jmnartsy with the tag ‘minimalist’ to bring up some examples.
Here’s a pic for your enjoyment!
Wings — © 2008-2012 jmnowak, all rights reserved
Sugar bowl
I really like these images. It’s a rarity for me to like photos straight out of the camera. I’d be interested to know what you think. There are five images in this gallery.
Borders provided by IrfanView and Picnik, a part of Picasa (the last pic in a fun Christmas mood).
PS: Happy Australia Day today! 
Some sugar
Editing software used: Picnik within Picasa.
May your Christmas this year be a time of joy with your family and good friends, and may the New Year 2013 bring much-needed peace and goodwill to all our fellow men.
Thanks also go to all my supporters throughout the year. I appreciate all your visits, Likes and comments. See you in the New Year! Cheers from Melbourne! :O)
