Monica McGivern-Creative Thinking & Artful Living

Creative Inspiration: The Singing House

2012-01-17T11:38:00.000-05:00

Wow, talk about being connected to nature! Please watch this demonstration of Quintron's genius:

New Year's Day with Friends 2012

2012-01-09T15:40:00.000-05:00

Thank you Aly and Liam for the amazing food and even more fabulous company. :) Thanks to everyone who made appearances in the video as well. What a fun, relaxing day!

Location Scouting: South Florida

2012-01-04T18:53:00.002-05:00

Despite the sun, the weather finally dipped into a temperature which warrented a "snuggle alert." My self-assigned task yesterday was to do some test-shooting in and around the Boca Raton area. I have an engagement shoot coming up this weekend and I wamt to keep my portfolio fresh by shooting in a new location.

Here were a few of my discoveries:

Found this beach with some nice rock formations:

It's cold to us Floridians!

Perfect surfing weather though:

The Hillsboro Lighthouse:

If you look closely, you can see this pelican is shivering...maybe that's just me?

Wow, this location doesn't even seem like Florida anymore!

Then the sun began to set, time for just a few more images:

Ah, Florida Winter!!

What is Namaste?

2011-12-26T08:45:00.001-05:00

In most Western yogic classes you may hear the word "Namaste" used as a greeting or in the closing of the practice. In other traditions, Amrit Yoga for one, the greeting is "Jai Bhagwan." In the Kundalini yoga tradition, the saying is "Sat Nam."

While the words may be interchangeable, the heartfelt expression defined below, is not:

Art Basel 2011: South Florida Photography & Ecology

2011-11-25T18:07:00.000-05:00

If you're a fan of my Photography by Monica page on Facebook you may have seen that I was invited to show work at Art Basel this year! Everytime an oppotunity comes along I realize my gratitude and don't know where to begin thanking people. It's all connected in one way or the other. One opportunity connects to the next, but most recently I need to thank Brady Newbill for his generosity in extending me an introduction to Breven Angaelica Warren, the host of the Angaelica Show where my work will be displayed. (I met Brady through his brother Travis, whom I met through the New Times crew, and the thread of gratitude continues....)

If you have some time/interest, please take a moment to check out Angaelica.com, which is a non-profit eco-organization expressing socially conscious messages through and for the support of artists. Sounds perfect for me, right? (I thought so too.) Most importantly, if you're going to be amongst the festivities in Miami, try to make it to the show!

Hope to see you soon!

Show Dates: December 1st-4th
Address: 2060 NW 1st Ave, Miami FL 33127

October Highlights, 2011

2011-10-31T22:53:00.018-04:00

What a month! Here are a few of the highlights & some of my personal favorites:

Stitch Rock slideshow.

Loved these rings! (If someone know who's pictured here I'd love to link to their shop...)

Lowell of Jinx Remover Prints

J.Cole at Ft Lauderdale's Revolution Live! New Times slideshow.

Arctic Monkeys and Smith Westerns (playing Revolution instead of Langerado!!) New Times slideshow

Slideshow of Oktoberfest in Lantana.

Possibly the biggest fan of the chicken dance, ever!

They've either been drinking bottomless boots of beer or are just this happy to be out of the hour and a half wait for parking. Maybe both?

Legendary punk rocker, Keith Morris at the Culture Room! Here's a link to the New Times slideshow.

A couple of firsts...a first opportunity to cover a show for Beached Miami, as well as photograph at the historic Fillmore in Miami Beach. Please look at how my images turned out, as displayed by the beautiful presentation on Beached Miami's blog. Oh, almost forgot to mention that it was a little band called TV on the Radio!!

First 100 people or so out of the venue were given these free posters!

A personal image I took of Bruise Cruise co-captains , and Jonas Stein of Turbo Fruits flavor, and Michelle Cable of Panache Booking fame. Polaroid film is instant magic! Get some at the Impossible Project.

Moonshine cherries and a Polaroid pack cover at KISMET's Delray Beach Vintage Halloween party and sale.

For the Swarm666 (Hosted by Black Locust Society) I returned to Ft Lauderdale for a consecutive night (previous night caught up with friends at the Laser Wolf costume party) to find a well, swarm of people braving the less than ideal weather to reach the Black Locust Society's warehouse. Here's my slideshow from the Broward Palm Beach New Times.

RikoLus

Tranced by the great music at SWARM.

These guys really wanted their photo taken.

Swarm666-Continued:

A shoutout to PUREHONEY for doing what they're doing. It's the newest way to get the word out about your band, shows, or business. Featuring a new artist every month as well as a free CD's worth of music. This was the first month I advertised with them and am extremely pleased!! Interested? Check out the buzz, HERE.

UP NEXT:
1. Looking forward to covering the Radio-Active Grand Re-opening on Saturday, November 5th.

2. A chance to WIN a free photo session in my studio!! In connection with a Holiday shopping party I'm giving everyone a chancce to win. Simply "Like" my Photography by Monica page on Facebook, go to the party page HERE to comment that you want to win! Winner annouced on Sunday the 6th.

3. PLUS I'm showing some work and going to be guiding a meditation at the "Oneness" event at the Bubble in Ft Lauderdale on 11.11.11.
You can RSVP to the event by clicking the flier below. Meditating bunny image is the genius of artist/photographer Sean Murdock who will be exhibiting at the event as well.

A Harvest Wedding: Devin and Kate in Michigan!

2011-10-21T23:01:00.009-04:00

You may remember I had the amazing opportunity a month ago to visit my homestate for vacation, but more importantly, I was there to photograph a lifelong friend's wedding. It was so refreshing to get back to the crisp cool air and the warm friendly mid-western dispostions. The trees were bearing their fall colors and the wedding took place in the perfect location at a rustic barn near Brooklyn, Michigan. There's so much I could say about the generosity and thoughtfulness of all of the people involved in this event, but I'll let the pictures speak for themselves. :) Enjoy!

The morning was beautiful but the cloud cover looked like there might be rain...luckily it cleared up!

The guys show up in style. Love it!!

The beautiful bride, Kate.

A mother and her daughter.

Invitations/Programs by Lindsay Pavey

The "survivors." Last photo of the night :)

THANK YOU Kate and Devin for allowing me to make many photographs of your day. It was very special!

These are just a few of my favorites. Here's the link to the full proof album if you're curious about all the details from Kate and Devin's special day.

Last Wedding of the Summer: Mary and Sean SNEAK PEEK!

2011-09-24T00:40:00.004-04:00

UPDATE-Here's a link to all of the photos! Enjoy :)

Cape Cod has always been an amazing destination for generations of families who enjoy the traditions of the freshest seafood, blue hydrangeas, and beautiful seascape scenery. Recently I had the opportunity to capture this in celebration of Mary and Sean's wedding. Mary was one of my bridesmaids last year, so being a part of her special day was truly an honor! I hope you enjoy some of these images from my trek up to "The Cape" to photograph my last Summer wedding of 2011. CONGRATULATIONS Mary and Sean!!

The bridesmaids and one very lucky photographer (me!) enjoyed a relaxing massage the day before the "big day." Look at this view!! Thank you Mary for such an amazing gift!

1. Hydrangeas! 2. Gluten-free wedding cake. Mmmm, I had the lemon flavor! 3. Custom welcome baskets for each guest including (of course) Cape Cod potato chips! 4. Eastham/Orleans landmark

An intimate bay side beach wedding on a picture perfect day!

The beautiful bride.

Sean and Mary.

"Just Mary'd"

HAPPY WEDDING!

Girls Night In: Fancy Party

2011-09-03T23:37:00.001-04:00

I've never been the wine connoisseur but I'm open to learning. I'm very knowledgeable about teas, and have always been curious about learning the different flavors of wine but haven't really taken the time...yet! A friend, Amanda, had the brilliant idea to have a "fancy party" which entailed a few of us girls getting dressed all fancy and bringing a fancy bottle of wine that we've always been interested in trying, with some fancy hors d'oeuvres, of course! We're thinking of making this a monthly event. With food like this, why not?

UPDATE: A friend on facebook just referred me to her website, gulpclub.com. Wow! I had no idea about here expertise on this subject. If you are wanting to explore more into the world of wine and perfect taste pairings visit Coreen's website. I'm happy to know I have such a resource at hand. Maybe she'll make a special appearance at our next fancy party!

South Florida Live Music: John and John at the Speakeasy

2011-09-03T00:18:00.008-04:00

It's been awhile since I've posted and I've got so much to share! Does anyone ever feel like they're so busy that just by waking up in the morning they're running late? Luckily I have yoga and a meditation practice to keep things in focus. Speaking of meditation, there's an event slated to happen on October 11th (11.11.11) at the Bubble in Ft Lauderdale that I was invited to participate in. I'll be exhibiting some artwork and leading a guided meditation or two throughout the event. More details to come...

Last night was a great show for live music at the Speakeasy in Lake Worth. It was my first time there and as always Reed Fischer, of the Broward Palm Beach New Times, adequately summed up the the very eventful evening.Here's my pictorial commentary:

John Ralston attempts to rock his own face off.

Twinsies!

John, Dan Bonebrake (bass), and Jeff Snow (drums).

Jesse Dalton receiving applause for his drumming and memorization skills.

Jonathan Wilkins providing the tunes between sets.

Dan Bonebrake attacking his guitar.

Chris Horgan appreciates all fans. Here he plays for some ants walking across the stage...

An unkown person reads a sweet paper...

David Vanderslice begins his set. Wow, look at that rembrandt lighting! My instructor at the Art Institute of Ft Lauderdale, Mr. Sheffield, would be proud.
ET audition?
Then John invited this guy onstage....
...to PROPOSE to his girlfriend!

She said "yes!"
Luckily there was a photographer to capture the moment! :)
John invited them to dance while he played his next tune
in celebration.

And they all jammed together happily ever after.

The End.

For more images from the night, visit my flickr page.

Juno Beach Sunrise: Florida Photography

2011-07-26T08:42:00.001-04:00

A couple of images from my morning. Enjoy!

Sea oats before the sunrise.

Have a great day!

The Domino Effect: Entertainment!

2011-07-20T09:27:00.001-04:00

Here's a video showcasing a photo themed Rube Goldberg "machine."

Thought my photog friends would enjoy, although I gotta admit it's a little less entertaining without Ok Go's great tracks behind it. Example below:

AND this one doesn't showcase Rube Goldberg's handi-work, but it's amazing too:

Happy Wednesday!! Now get back to work. :)

Fine Art Prints: South Florida Photographer

2011-07-13T18:22:00.003-04:00

I'm excited to announce a new fine art limited edition series! Lately I've spent a lot of time posting images on Facebook. I love sharing via social networking knowing I'll receive commentary almost instantly. While this does have it's value, having a couple of exhibitions recently reminded me of the importance of printing. The quality of printing just can't be beat. The colors and clarity, i.e. sharpness are completely lost once uploaded and compressed onto Facebook. So I've decided to organize a few images that I think would make beautiful images for your home or office. Beginning with the first image below entitled, "After the Rain."

If interested in purchasing, please comment below. Or send me a quick e-mail at info@foodshelterart.com
Prices are extremely reasonable! How reasonable, you ask? For a limited time, you can purchase an 8x10 professional print for $20.00!! (plus S+H.)Custom printing options available upon request.

Look for more limited edition print images added SOON!

Totally Rad Despite the Wave of Rain: Longboard Grand Opening

2011-07-06T00:12:00.000-04:00

Last Saturday I had the opportunity to connect with a lot of the Broward Palm Beach New Times crew as they made the drive "up north" in support of the Longboard Restaurant Grand Opening and Block Party. Take a look at what went on via the slideshow, PLUS some additional photos below:

They were excited!

This guy, not so much....

Jacuzzi Boys' lead singer, Gabe.

Danny seems pretty excited to see this piece of fruit land on stage.

Diego on drums.

The rain begins.

Driving shades

The rain continues and so does the Surfaris' set!

They seemed quite happy. Must be all the surfing...

Dancing in the rain

"Lady Gaga" even showed up! I heard this guy used to dress as Beyonce prior to this outfit. Amazing.

Sweet board painted by local artist, Adam Sheetz.

Speaking of great local artists, here's Teresa Korber and the board she painted.

This little skater girl was fearless!

Look her board is almost as tall as she is!

wow

AND a couple of fun (digital) polaroids:

My editor, Reed Fischer. Read his review of the night HERE.

Crissy without the "H."

Reed and Ian making me laugh.

South Florida Artists: Upcoming Art Show in Tequesta, Florida

2011-06-13T18:47:00.000-04:00

I'm thrilled to have a couple pieces included in the Lighthouse Center for the Arts upcoming contemporary art show! Here's the flier:

I hope to see you there!!

South Florida Wedding Photgrapher: Belanger/Perry Sneak Peek!

2011-06-12T22:23:00.003-04:00

Last week I had the pleasure of photographing the Belanger/Perry Wedding at the Jupiter Beach Resort. Catherine or "Katie" for short, married Matthew Perry. For anyone who follows pop-culture you'll realize what great names these two have!

I had so much fun and am grateful for having had the opportunity to celebrate my love of photography through taking photographs of a couple very much in love! Here's a sneak peek of the gorgeous beachside wedding that took place at the Jupiter Beach Resort in Jupiter, Florida.

The Bride

This is Happiness! Katie with Mom (left) and Sister, Amanda (right)

It's all about the details...

A beautiful day for a wedding!

Travel Hodge Podge: DC and the Bahamas

2011-05-26T08:39:00.007-04:00

A visual diary of some of my recent adventures in Eleuthera, Bahamas and Washington, DC:

My last day in the Bahamas was a long one. It began at 5am with me driving my golf cart "off road" to a very remote part of Harbour Island. It was dark, I had no cell phone service, and I knew if anything happened to the cart it was going to be a loong walk back! This photograph was totally worth it though!!

Went back to my room to pack and check out. Turned in my golf cart and hopped on a single engine ferry boat back to the island of Eleuthera where I'd be catching my first of three flights for the day. This marked the official end of my "work" portion of the trip, and with an hour to wait for the plane, I finally allowed myself to have a Bahamian beer to celebrate the occasion. (Am I allowed to classify photographing custom luxury fishing boats on an exotic island work??)

Either way, here are a few personal images from the island:

So I caught my flight from the island to Ft Lauderdale, then caught my next flight from Ft Lauderdale to Newark, continuing on to my final destination, Reagan International...almost! I landed in Newark at 6pm. Flight was delayed for 5 hours, then eventually cancelled. While in line to re-book with about 50 people in front of me I was weighing my options when finally I just asked aloud to anyone within earshot, "Anyone want to go in on a rental car with me?" Three people thought it was a great idea so off we went to Avis! I didn't get a photo of them, but we had a great time making the four hour drive from Newark to DC together! Actually I don't even remember their names, I just remember that the man who drove us worked for Chevron and was the choice to drive because he was coming from L.A and was on Pacific time. I really didn't want to drive after the long day I had and the other two traveling with us were a couple on their last day of their honeymoon, coming in from Italy! Finally got to the DC airport where we returned the rental car and went out separate ways via taxi cabs. I had never been to where I was staying, at a friend of my brother-in-laws house, so I only had an address to give the cab driver. He had never heard of it. BUT he did have a GPS which I inputed the address into and then directed him on which roads to turn. He didn't seem too familiar with how to use the GPS, maybe I should have caught onto this when he got the GPS out of the trunk! I finally made it to my destination and spent the next couple of days in DC. Here are a few images in and around the Smithsonian:

South Florida Live Music: John Ralston and Invisible Music at South Shores

2011-05-21T17:53:00.001-04:00

Last night was fun! Someone needs to make a documentary already...

Images are on my flickr page. Or just watch this slideshow:

Art, Wine & Music: ANNIVERSARY WEEK

2011-05-20T09:34:00.006-04:00

One year ago this happened:

TOP PHOTO: Credit, Steev Rullman BOTTOM PHOTO: Credit, JoMarie Porcelli

I exhibited a project that came to be known as the "horse in the house" party. It was just a few days before my wedding and in the middle of Loxahatchee. Initially my intention was to have the images placed in the trees and people to walk around the property to view the exhibit with live music happening too. Invisible Music was slated to play, along with Black Finger and the now defunct Northwood Social Club. We got rained out but people showed up anyway! (Much due to the support of Steev Rullman of theHoneycomb.com)

Some of the images from that series are on exhibit at Kismet Recycled Vintage and Designer Boutique in Delray Beach. In fact, Kismet is celebrating their 3rd Anniversary with an event this weekend. RSVP here. Live music, photobooth, amazing vegan treats, unique clothing and great art on the walls!! I'll be celebrating my one year anniversary that night as it falls on the 22nd, otherwise I'd be there!

Aly, photographed by Husband Liam. Owners of Kismet. Havers of fun.

So with my wedding anniversary rolling around, it also means the anniversary of me meeting some great new friends who have helped me share my art with the world. Tonight some of those very talented friends will be performing at South Shores. RSVP here.

AND in exactly one week I'll be displaying a fun new series at Harold's in Northwood. RSVP Here. The event is going on in conjunction with Northwood's Art and Wine Event. Lots to see and drink ;)

Also, fire Zuave will be playing live.

Chuck Zuave.

Did you know their "Starving Like a Pack of Wolves" track is featured on the WeMerge "Free Pizza" album? Look for it when you're out and about, wherever WeMerge is distributed. Or pick one up when you're at Harold's on the 27th ;)

I hope to meet you/say hello/catch-up soon!

South Florida Musicians: John Ralston

2011-05-06T17:22:00.001-04:00

Here's one of my favorite images from an impromptu photoshoot with John Ralston last week.

With the excitement of tonight's 3rd Ave Festival, it was def necessary to shed some light on the musician who is headlining the New Times stage at the Green Room. Did you read Reed's Ralston interview yet? It's in print and online. Tonights line-up reads like a dream "South Florida mix" CD missing an obvious few, I'm guessing just from scheduling and touring conflicts. If I had my way, I'd add Sumsun, The Jameses, Sweet Bronco, The Band in Heaven, Guy Harvey, Surfer Blood, Jacuzzi Boys, Love Handles,and Weird Wives. Of course with a line-up that huge, that might mean we'd be partying all night. Just for that reason I'd have to throw in Miami's Suenalo to keep us dancing with their funky "Afro-Cuban" beat. It's much more likely that I'll just keep listening to my iTunes "South Florida Playlist" while editing, followed by more photographing, then editing and listening and editing. Thanks to all of the great South Florida musicians (too many to list) for the inspiration!!! :)

Orange Door and Record Store Day Recap 2011: South Florida Music Photographer

2011-04-22T17:10:00.002-04:00

First off, congrats to the GIVERS who made it into the Bonnaroo line-up. Their infectious and upbeat tunes have cycled regularly on my "Monica Mix" CD's since I saw them play live at Propaganda last year. Just a few days after my wedding! Hadn't left for my honeymoon yet and Steev from theHoneyComb.com kept talking about this show so I had to go. So glad I did! Listen to "Up, Up, Up" while you check out a couple images from the Prop show:
Up Up Up by NYLONmag
The GIVERS on Fire!

Even the Dewars had to dance!!

If anyone would like to send me to take photographs of them plus all of the other bands live at Bonnaroo, I have the dates available. Just putting that out there...

Friday eve I caught the show at the Orange Door in Lake Park;
Love Handles kills it @ the Orange Door.

Love the Jameses!

I left around 1:30am before the Blank Dogs went on. I heard that's what a lot of people did. Hope they didn't take it personally. My excuse was that I was planning to catch them at their next gig, the Record Store Day celebration in Ft Lauderdale. Drove there early just in time to photograph the mad rush of people getting first grabs at new/limited releases.
Following Images Originally Shot for Broward Palm Beach New Times.

Upon my recommendation, this guy bought John Ralston's new album, Shadows of the Summertime. Very cool! The album and this guy ;)

Another cool person I met amongst many throughout the day is Phil, from Consequence of Sound. Photographed below, doing his share to document the day.

Then I had a brunch/coffee/nap/ice cream break before I went back to the store for the live music. Who said the Blank Dogs don't like photos?? They were very kind to let me do a mini-photoshoot before their set.
Don't Laugh!

"Do you guys know anyone named Jimmy?"
"No."

Love their feet in this photo.

From Blank Dogs to a cute dog.

Speaking of cute...

Jacuzzi Boys (Go to their show tomorrow!!)

Congrats to Mikey Ramirez and staff of Radio-Active Records in Ft Lauderdale for a truly successful event.

Did you get your Radio-Active sticker yet??

GOOD NIGHT!

(Thank you to Travis Newbill and Courtney Hambright for the tea and wine!!!)

(more photos on my flickr page...more to be added...)

Breathe, RELAX, Let Go and DANCE!!

2011-04-15T14:47:00.005-04:00

So much going on this weekend! The perfect kick-off to the week started off with another installment of 1810 Yoga. While I enjoyed spending time with everyone who came out to the event, the only photos I took were of this frog:

I was especially grateful to see fellow New Times freelancer Alex Rendon and his wife, Catalina, attend for the first time. His unofficial review via Facebook message stated:

"Just wanted to drop you a line and say thanks for being such a great yoga sensei (don't know the yoga jargon.) My wife and I had a great time. We had been so stressed out for a multitude of reasons that a little relaxation was just what we needed. It was a blast. You made a believer out of me."

Thanks again to everyone who attended! YOU are helping me to manifest my vision of creating a space for artistic minded people to re-connect and focus on their internal source of power and inspiration. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

So after a little relaxation, then what? Live your passion!! I've been told many times that people enjoy watching me take photos because I look like I'm having fun. Clearly I can't hide the truth :) Tonight is going to be a very fun night of dancing/photography/awesome music! That's because of this event going on at the Orange Door. View my photos from the last event there of a mix of some of the same bands.

While I'm not shooting this event officially i.e. getting paid, they def deserve the attention as it promises to be an amazing night. Oh well, nights like this help to keep my blog pretty and where else can you let go and dance on a huge orange and white checkerboard floor??

FYI there's always the option to click the little "Donate" button if you feel so moved to help me along my journey of documenting the South Florida music scene....the truth is, I'm going to do it anyway. BUT we could all use help along the Way!!

Another event deserving of press is the Top Five Records line-up going on tomorrow in downtown Lake Worth. Unfortunately I won't be able to see some of my favorite local acts as I'll be covering the Record Store Day celebration at Radio-Active Records in Ft Lauderdale. Here are some photos instead of the most recent Invisible Music show at the Bamboo Room, to help you get your John Ralston fix.

Lake Worth's Musical Savior...

Seriously great music. Dan Bonebrake and Tiffany Jezek.

With Jeff Snow on drums!! Download Invisible Music's "Let Me Be" single to support the Snow family with their son's road to recovery :)

If this isn't enough, check out a great review by Arielle Castillo with images by Ian Witlen from the Further Seems Forever/Legends of Rodeo show here.

One of the bands performing tomorrow at Radio-Active is the Jacuzzi Boys whom I last saw live on the Bruise Cruise!! Here's a Polaroid I took of them with an SX70.

Really looking forward to this weekend....see you on the dance floor!

1810 Yoga & Creative Meditation, and Amish Friendship Bread

2011-04-02T00:01:00.005-04:00

"Yoga Day" is almost here again! I keep meaning to take some overall photos of the tropical backyard that serves as our outdoor meditation space during the events coined "1810 Yoga." (1810 is the address of the house.) If not before this event, I promise to document the space during!

In my excitement for the next "1810 Yoga" I decided to make some Amish Friendship Bread. It was very popular "Up North" where there was actually a significant Amish population. One particular memory stands out as we had stopped off at a McDonald's on the way to my Grandmother's house in Mid-Michigan. As we pulled around the curve of the drive-through, there was a peculiar sight. Alongside a row of cars was a parked Amish horse and buggy! Apparently even the Amish can't resist the devilish temptations of Ronald McDonald.

Anyway, if you don't know already what friendship bread is, the easiest way to sum it all up is that it's a non-vegan, gluten containing, but very tasty sweet and edible chain letter. Because it contains yeast, the batter grows/ferments over the ten day period that you have it, resulting in enough dough for you to bake bread with, plus two batches leftover. Then you give the leftover "starter" dough to friends for them to let grow for ten days and the process continues.

So with ten days until the event, this is what the batter looked like on day one:

The hardest part is deciding what bread you're going to bake it into once you have the starter. I think I'm going to go with this recipe. :)

South Florida Musician: Evan Mui

2011-03-31T23:46:00.003-04:00

After a day of expected rain, it was a nice treat to have the sky open up when it was time for my shoot today with Evan Mui.

I always love photographing in Lake Worth. There are plenty of Spanish architectural influences, especially when it comes to the paint colors on the buildings! Not to mention a whole town worth of artistic awareness. We found a bright orange Volkswagon van and had to use that in the shoot! Here's a sneak-peek of the session(click photo to see entire image if not already displayed on your screen):

I look forward to sharing more...

Bands Making Music Part II: Yellow #6 Album Release/Anita's Birthday

2011-03-29T14:34:00.002-04:00

Just a few images from the night from PROPAGANDA in Lake Worth. I don't make it down there too much anymore because I'm not a fan of the smoke. Luckily this show was a smoke-free show. I hope this trend continues!!

It was Anita's Birthday. (Happy Birthday Anita!!) Andrea Duclos, winner of my photo giveaway made this for Anita.

Look at this cool set-up. (looks like the crowd loved it!)

Armand, whom I photographed for the Lake Worth Photo Project, seemed very happy to get to press buttons.

That's Jason Fusco who came into town all the way from Athens, GA! Check out that nifty can holder cymbol attachment.

And here's Thomas Beals who was another Lake Worth Photo Project participant.

Thought this was a funny scene to find. It's the alcoholic version of Hansel and Gretel. Leaving a trail of empty shot glasses...

The album that I have yet to take out of my car's CD player since I've gotten it.

And finally, a conceptual image. :)

CONGRATS guys!

Bands Making Music: Black Finger CD Release

2011-03-28T18:55:00.050-04:00

Nothing makes me happier than knowing that I've gotten to where I am because I love what I do. When you love what you do, chances are you're going to connect with others who love what they do. The result of these connections is a mutual admiration of support and understanding. Saturday night I got to photograph some of the people who I am honored to know, and grateful to have the opportunity to photograph! Congrats to the members of Black Finger on their album release number THREE! Here are some images from the evening:

You can listen to or purchase their new album HERE

John Ralston's new guitar.

Sound guy at Elwood's in Delray Beach.

A candid moment...?

Black Finger members before the show begins

The "new" Elwood's. Apparently used to be a gas station.

Black Finger Members from Close to Far: Jesse Dalton, Sean Fernandez, Greg Lovell, and Andrew McAusland.

The Delray Beach venue, The New Elwood's.

Courtney! (She makes me laugh.)

Friend of the band, Ben Cecil, gets up to help sing the lyrics to "Cats in the Alley," which he wrote.

More performances by Marisa, Ben, Dan, and a trombone guy too. (Accurate reporting, I know...)

Jonathan Wilkins with John Ralston's new album, Shadows of the Summertime. The one with my photo on the front, remember?

Black Finger and friends! From LEFT: Dan Bonebrake, John Ralston, Sean, Marisa Dinino, Greg, Jesse, & Andy.

Broward Palm Beach New Times Gig: DR. SEUSS Live art group show by Art Nouveau Events

2011-03-25T17:56:00.001-04:00

Welcome to the blog post with the OFFICIALLY longest title ever! I met Teresa Korber and Angela Tronick of Art Nouveau events on a fateful day of cupcakes and crafting, i.e. Amanda Linton's Stitch Rock.

Seconds later after this image was taken Teresa (pictured @ left enjoying cupcake, with Angelea looking on) laughed as she realized I'd captured her in action! I believe her words were "Oh no you didn't..." Well I'm glad I did, because this gave me the opportunity to hear what she and Angela were up to with Art Nouveau Events! They gave me a flier for the Palm Beach Art and Music Show which took place back in November. I didn't get a chance to go to this event or any prior to the Dr. Suess show so I was eager to FINALLY see all of their hard work that goes into their events. I wasn't disappointed!! So thank you to Teresa and Angela for being gracious hostesses, and CONGRATS on such a fun show!

Here are a few images from my night:

Sushi :(

First Official ANE "Best in Show" Award went to artist Cary Polkovitz

Thank you Teresa for having me try the "Green Eggs and Ham". "It's not real ham," she explained, "it's just a sour candy." Thanks, Teresa. ;)

Wow it's very rare to hear so many songs I like in one night! I had to make a point of complimenting DJ Joshua Daniel that night for his selections.

"I want to see the art inside too! Please?"

Appreciating the fine craftsmanship of the headband.

"There's even candy in the green eggs! Teresa thinks of everything." -ANE's Official photographer, Angela Tronick.

Allison Kapner def wins for having the most theme related Dr. Seuss memorabilia! She was wearing a red and white "Cat in the Hat" hat when I first arrived and when I saw her later in the eve as pictured she said, "This is what happens when I take the hat off!" Cute :)

Should people under the influence be allowed to play with fire? The girl pictured seems to be having the same questions about artist Ryan David as me. Oh well. It was his birthday & no one got hurt.

Other notable moments can be seen via my flickr page. ((Sorry if there are repeats!))

South Florida Musician: Chris Horgan

2011-03-24T18:01:00.004-04:00

Recently had the opportunity to photograph Ft Lauderdale musician, Chris Horgan.

Spring is Afoot.

UPDATE: New Times just used the following image in a little article. CLICK HERE to read.
Reflection

We took the photos in Delray Beach as Chris was playing a show at Dada's later that eve. I've been there several times to photograph bands but hadn't there before, so I thought this would be a good chance to try the food. So Chris and I grabbed some food since he wasn't going to be playing for a couple hours. I was recommended to try the 7-cheese grilled cheese sandwich. This non-vegan yet still veggie sandwich was very good, accompanied by a tomato bisque. I didn't take a photo of the sandwich so instead here's a photo of some bread, cheese and tomatoes in homemade pizza formation that I made a couple nights ago:
(Yum!)

Hodge Podge

2011-03-14T16:22:00.003-04:00

I went mouse shopping after my old one (which was still quite young in technological mouse time) died. Actually, I got it just this Christmas and while I do remember something about a lifetime warranty, I think I was supposed to register but didn't. I figured the cost of shipping and handling to send the mouse in for repairs would be more expensive then just purchasing a new mouse. Yes, the old consumer mentalities will getcha every time. So on to the store. I took extra care to select a mouse this time. Previously I got the cheapest (obviously) mouse available and that didn't work out too well. I never noticed all of the options until I tried them out side-by-side. Then I found it! A mouse that barely made a peep... er, click. Often I'll edit images in the living room while my husband watches TV, so in awareness of his sanity, I wanted a quite mouse. What is the advantage of having a loud click-y mouse? (And why do mice "click" anyways? Wouldn't it be cute if the actually emitted the quietest little mouse squeak?) Just some things for Microsoft to think about... I know for super-intelligent people like Bill Gates sometimes the simplest ideas can be overlooked. I got your back, Bill. One question remains, though. If you look at the packaging you'll see the label below:

It left me very confused, yet intrigued. I immediately imagined myself purchasing this mouse for the thrill of attempting to smuggle it outside of the U.S. and Canadian borders. I don't know where this adventure will lead me, and when I decide, I don't know that I can tell you for concern of my mouse's safety. I hope you understand.

Okay, silliness aside, here are a few bits of press/work I haven't written about yet. John Ralston has his full album out now, Shadows of the Summertime.
JOHN RALSTON "Love Will Come Around" by sonshine

Yea, John! Congrats on the work. It's currently available at some of the best record shops in South Florida, including: Top Five in Lake Worth, and RadioActive, in Ft Lauderdale. P.S., yes that is my photo of John taken in Steev Rullman's backyard. Also, he's got a big show coming up this weekend at the Bamboo Room.

The music festival SXSW is coming up. Athen's band Casper and the Cookies will be there this year. Kay Stanton, a member of the band was nice enough to send me a copy of the Athens Banner-Herald where a photo of mine was front and center, online and in print.

Thanks Kay! Best wishes at the fest and on tour.

Also, here's a link to the Retro-Indie Market SLIDESHOW I shot for New Times. It was another VERY successful show put on by Michelle Parparian and Amanda Linton.

Path to Peace: A Meditation

2011-03-11T12:08:00.002-05:00

My is heart is weighing heavy right now. I've been watching updates of Japan's earthquake and tsunami this morning, while also watching my reaction to this news. I can't help but to feel sorrow for those whose lives have been tragically effected. I recognize in my own journey it's easy to have the tendency to push pain away. Instead, the invitation through the practice of yoga is to just be with what you are feeling. It is a practice of expanding your capacity, despite chaos and disruption. To share peace, I must feel what it is like to be peaceful. To help others find peace, I must share EXPERIENCE of how I myself learned to move from distraction to peace, many times over. It's a path after all. There will be days when sharing peace seems like the last thing possible, and on those days when your heart feels heavy, instead of pushing the pain away, I hope you find a welcoming space to allow yourself to just feel. Allowing yourself to breathe, relax and let go. Let go of the need to DO anything. Simply be present with peace, as it's manifesting through you, with each breath.

In addition to this I wanted to post again about Baby Snow. He was one of the "Love Music" babies from the triple maternity session I did months ago. There's been a fund set-up to help him and his family along their journey to peace. Please help if you can.

Please VOTE

2011-03-08T15:19:00.000-05:00

In an effort to have my work seen and to expand the awareness of the return of Polaroid photography via The Impossible Project, please VOTE for me! You don't have to sign up for anything. All you have to do is CLICK HERE then click on the bright blue VOTE tab in the upper right hand corner. That's it! Thank you!!
<3 Monica

Inspirations, Part II: Do you Know "What's Weird?"

2011-03-06T21:51:00.001-05:00

I'll tell two versions of this story, one short, and one long. That way you don't have to read a lot of words if you don't want to.

THE SHORT VERSION:
I once bought a CD based solely on the album artwork.
Now the artist (David Barnes) that created the design is selling a book that I think you should check out. Or at least visit his website, because he's using a photo I took of him.

THE LONG VERSION:
In 2008 I was driving down Northlake Blvd. in North Palm Beach, Florida when I saw the CD Warehouse was going out of business. It was in it's last days, where the owner was even pushing you to buy the store shelving units with your steeply discounted CD purchases. There were only a few CDs left. I took a look around and picked up a few world music albums that I thought would be great for the long drive to Michigan that I was about to leave for. I didn't see to much else that looked interesting. I went over to the "Employee Recommendations" shelf and immediately fell in love with the artwork of the only CD left on the rack. At that time, I didn't know the band "of Montreal". I did know, however, that the artwork looked amazing! It turned out to be this.

So I bought the CD based on the artwork, and listend to the CD the entire drive from Florida to Michigan. Somewhere around Southern Ohio I began singing along as it helped to pass the time. When I got to Michigan, I gave the CD to my sister and her boyfriend as they'd heard of of Montreal but hadn't really listened to them yet either. Eventually I returned back to Florida and forgot I had left the CD there. Like a three year old who is more enthralled with the box than the present, I did still manage to have the cd packaging with me.

A couple months later I saw of Montreal perform live at the Langerado Music Festival. I left halfway though their set though, not because I wasn't entertained, but because they were one of the last bands to play. It was a very long four days of camping. Growing up in Northern Michigan I'm no stranger to camping but this was unexpectedly extreme! I went to the fest by myself and the first thing I did (as did many fest attendees) was get out of my car and kick of my shoes. Who needs shoes in the wilderness? Huge mistake!! Immediately the FIRE ANTS began attacking! It my first experience at a large festival and although I'd lived in Florida for a few years, I'd never actually experienced being bitten once, much less SEVERAL times by these terrible ants. OUCH! (Well, more like: OW!Ouch! OUCH! OWWWWW!!! GET THEM OFF OF ME!!!)So anyways after the extreme weather shifts from record lows to unbearable highs, in addition to the blisters and the dirt, I was quite exhausted by the time of Montreal played. I remember walking away thinking, "they seem cool, but I'd really love to go home and wash my feet."

SO, a week later I attended an art event of a group that had honored my work before. They had hired a local band, Fire Zuave, to play that I'd never heard, but instantly took notice of. After that show, Fire Zuave hired me to do photo work for them and we became friends. It turned out that the lead singer was cousins with Kevin Barnes, lead singer for of Montreal, and David Barnes, the artist responsible for me taking notice of of Montreal in the first place. Then I went on a couple tours with them and got to take photos along the way. A couple months ago I was hired by the Broward Palm Beach New Times to photograph another one of their concerts and an image I took is being used to help promote David's book. This makes me very happy as it reminds me of the day a few years ago that I bought a CD solely on David's (which I didn't know was David's, yet)work.

Back from the Boat

2011-03-04T17:03:00.058-05:00

"Learn something new! This is where everything is going to go. On the computer in over a year." Recently overheard from a middle-aged woman in a bookstore predicting the future of the internet...

Maybe someone missed the boat on that one? Speaking of missing the boat, the Bruise Cruise is done and over! Clearly I made it back safe, and am just now attempting to put words to the experience. I want to go back!

How did I got on the boat in the first place? January 26th (my birthday) I got a call from SPIN Magazine saying I had WON their grandprize!! Needless to say, it was a great birthday present.

So here's a little bit of music to listen to while watching the slideshow of Polaroids I took while onboard the cruise. Personally I believe every band should have an obligatory song containing lyrics of "la la la" in some repetitious manner as to increase the audience's drunkest member's ability to participate in singing along.Thee Oh Sees fulfilled this need for me and so much more. Listen to my unofficial Bruise Cruise anthem, a song that's so catchy and danceable. Thee Oh-Sees - I Was Denied by hells-belles

Then press the play button below to view the slideshow. (Make sure to maximize the show in the bottom right hand corner.)

These actual Polaroids were taken with an SX-70 on The Impossible Project's Push! film. It needs a ton of light for the images to be clear, and responds really well to being heated to "push" the intensity of the colors. I found the tiles by the pool were great for this as they retained a lot of heat.

Here are some of my favorite images from the cruise. (Obviously not Polaroids.) I'll do my best to narrate:

Why were the creepy animals always put on my bed?

I was hoping to photograph people here...

and here, too. Pina coladas got in the way. It's a good time to admit that I know my limits with alcohol. For this reason, I don't drink at all under normal working circumstances. However, a free trip to the Bahamas is not a normal circumstance. I'm allowed to have fun, too. ;-) Although, I did learn my lesson. Some people get drunk and regret things they've done, I got drunk and regret not taking specific pictures.

This was my travel companion, Aly. She knows how to dress well and offers me direction in that area. On the last day I packed everything and then put on some comfy clothes. She saw me and said, "Are you wearing your yoga clothes? **Sigh** I guess it's okay, it's the last day."

Here are a couple more of Aly wearing some of her vintage finest:

"I'm on a boat!"

LIVE MUSIC/BAND MEMBERS:

Tyler of Surfer Blood

The Black Lips

Ty Segall

Jacuzzi Boys

Strange Boys

Turbo Fruits

Everyone loves the Vivian girls

Bass guitar overboard

Every lounge act drinks like a fish, right?

And this happened:

Get Ready...

Get SET!

Elevator Par-tay in full effect!!!

Captain Booze Cruise.

A lively bunch :)

CONGRATS to these two! They got engaged on the cruise! Watch it here.

SERIOUSLY documenting the action!

Lido deck tango with Surfer Blood's Marcos

Day 3: Organizer Michelle Cable, still working hard!

THE END! Or is it? Rumor has there's a Bruise Cruise Reunion slated for New York this Summer...anyone interested??

VIEW the rest of my Bruise Cruise images HERE

Bruise Cruise Fashion: Part Two

2011-02-18T11:56:00.019-05:00

Update: The passport has arrived.

I'm now official to travel internationally as Monica McGivern.

Yesterday was just an amazing day. I was wearing everything from Versace to vintage! Thanks again KISMET!

All Images by Liam Milano

You can view more of Liam's artwork here!! Including a Polaroid of our shoot yesterday.

And now, more photos! Please feel free to comment about which outfits would be best!

Outfit # One. With and Without jacket

Outfit #2
Classic tourist dress made hip with the cotton belt.

Me with a Flamingo

Aly & Me

I have to admit with my normally yogic balanced brain it's been quite some time that I've been this swept up in the current of excitement. An important lesson I've experienced through my practice has allowed me to recognize that it's not that yogis find a way to permanently relax, it's the the ability to create the capacity to relax DESPITE all that is happening. Exciting events and happiness can be just as (if not more) distracting as their opposites. No need to judge for or against that which arises. Enjoy each experience as it is, an opportunity to learn about ourselves. :)

Bruise Cruise Fashion: Part One

2011-02-18T01:12:00.001-05:00

What a day! I am very grateful to Aly Gore and Liam Milano, as well as Daniel Millay. Today I relinquished my camera to "model" a bit. More photos soon, but for now enjoy this silly one from today's shoot:

Me photographed as I re-enact the "Jack and Rose moment."

Bruise Cruise: ANTICIPATION!

2011-02-16T11:28:00.005-05:00

Made the trek to Miami yesterday to get my passport in order. The form was the last of the paperwork to organize in the "I'm Never Changing my Name Again" file I'd made sometime close to my wedding in May.

Who knew there's so much involved??

The passport process was pretty simple considering there's only nine days until we set sail on the Bruise Cruise, and I'll have my amended passport in hand just two days* after I submitted the paperwork (*IF I want to drive back to Miami to pick it up.) I opted to receive it by mail so the worst part is awaiting for it to arrive in the mailbox. It SHOULD be here either Monday of Tuesday.

What are rockers supposed to wear on a Bahamas cruise anyway?
To help the time pass, my Bruise Cruise guest and friend Aly and I are doing a fashion photoshoot tomorrow featuring the clothes found at Kismet! I can't wait to see what Aly picked out for me to wear :)

In anticipation of the trip I posted this little video of my last visit to the Bahamas in 2007.
My dorky laugh makes me laugh every time I watch this.

The view.

Shark behind glass.

In the Studio: Palm Beach County Music Photographer

2011-02-10T11:17:00.002-05:00

I love the sound of the sitar. Yesterday Kevin R. Williams joined me in the studio for a photosession.

Free download of Kevin's personal project:

Download the whole album here.

First we hit up Kismet in Delray Beach to grab a few clothes options. I can't say enough about Kismet. While waiting for Kevin to arrive I enjoyed watching peoples' reactions upon entering the colorful shop. There's always so much to discover! Each piece selected is done so through the discerning and fashionable eyes of Aly Gore. In most stores you have to look for a particular style and then see if the size will fit. At Kismet there are so many beautiful pieces that it's really just a matter of making sure it fits, and then the trouble of not buying EVERYTHING!

Sorry if it sounds like I'm trying to "sell" anyone on this place, but as you might guess, I really like the place. Aly and I were chatting one day and came to the mutal agreement that we both try to make people look, and feel "cool." She uses fashion, and I utilize photography. Look forward to more photos with Kismet as we're planning a photoshoot around our preparations of our cruise attire. So excited for the Bruise Cruise! In fact, the next time I see Kevin it will most likely be on the ship as he's currently playing bass guitar for Surfer Blood and someday I hope they'll add sitar to the mix...

More sitar! Sitar is the new cowbell.

South Florida Music Photographer: John Ralston LP is here!

2011-02-08T14:20:00.000-05:00

Thanks again to John Ralston for allowing me to be involved! Just got BOTH of my copies (yes I had him sign them!) one in a translucent red, and the other in white. Makes for a great Christmas in February present. It's John Ralston, he gets to celebrate the holidays whenever he chooses.

SPIN Magazine: Bruise Cruise Giveaway

2011-02-03T09:04:00.000-05:00

In an interesting twist of fate, I won SPIN Magazine's Grand Prize Giveaway. It's still surreal and yet surprisingly perfect news in every way. I know there are so many people who are sad that they don't get to go, but I hope that me being the observant person photography has trained me to be, I can report about the event to make everyone feel as if they were there too.

South Florida Music: John Ralston and Friends

2011-02-01T10:24:00.000-05:00

I wrote my first review for New Times!

CLICK HERE to read about John Ralston's official White Spiders album release party.

Friendly Fire

2011-01-31T18:15:00.001-05:00

The annual "tree burning" event hosted by friend and musician, Greg Lovell, happened over the weekend. Each year everyone saves their Christmas tree to donate for this event. Have you ever seen a pine tree burn in a fire in Southern Florida? Well let's just say that no gasoline is needed to instantly create a dramatic ball of flame! It's quite a sight and I thought I'd share a couple images. It was especially fun as I finally got to meet two of the three babies from the Invisible Music triple maternity shoot. Hope to meet the third soon, as he and his family have been at the top of my well-wishes.

Penelope with mom, Tiffany.

Frankie slept soundly the whole party. I think she took comfort in knowing she had Bob and Buddah by her side.

1. The grand finale! Luckily no shed siding was melted, unlike during last year's event.
2. Most appropirately, the AC/DC "Bonfire" poster hangs in Greg's shed.
3. Trees waiting for their turn. Light trails create a burn effect by a slow shutter speed, and pan of the camera.
4. The Jezek family inside. A safe distance from the fire. :)

Liam poses next to the fire. Ben (at distance)

This may be the last of this event as Greg plans to sell this property soon. Although, there were talks of hosting this event next year. Hopefully the new owners agree, as it could be seen as a hostile action to have 40 random people show up in your backyard to make a 20 foot fire, eat pizza, and watch The Big Lebowski, quoting the movie dude for dude.

South Florida Music Photographer: of Montreal at Revolution 01/14/11

2011-01-18T14:03:00.002-05:00

Here are just a few photos from my night that didn't make it into the NEW TIMES Slideshow. I'll be sure to add more later!! Plus a story about how I first discovered of Montreal's music....

Live at Revolution in Ft Lauderdale. All Images Originally shot for Broward Palm Beach NEW TIMES

The of Montreal passes got stuck in the snow and couldn't be delivered to Sunny South Florida in time for the show, so we got whatever random passes were laying around. The band got "New Found Glory" and I got the "Micheal Franti" sticker shown in the photo below:

Self-Portrait: Image Originally Photographed for Broward-Palm Beach New Times.

Portrait of Davey. Image Originally Photographed for Broward-Palm Beach New Times.

After the of Montreal show, I stopped at Dada's in Delray Beach as I was bummed I couldn't make it to the Grey and Orange and John Ralston show. Luckily there's a great review of it here.
Also despite the time, approx. 2am, I still got a chance to see some of my favorite hometown heros. (I especially love in this photo that Greg looks as tired as I was feeling at that moment.) It was also great to see Steven Copeletti make the trip "Up North" for the show.

L to R: Steev Rullman, Dan Bonebrake, Greg Lovell, Jesse Dalton.

A very special thanks to John Ralston for filling in my cd collection of some really amazing music!! This gift may even compete with the mangos...

5th Annual Yoga Day USA: January 22, 2011

2011-01-13T12:08:00.000-05:00

This is an amazing yoga event for practitioners of all levels. Plus, it's FREE! Click here to learn more.

See you there...after I get done teaching at BGI-South, of course!

2010: Through my Lens

2011-01-04T10:26:00.003-05:00

So here's what I was putting together that I didn't want to rush. I hope you like & ENJOY!

What a range of subjects! People and their stories intrigue me, as well as music and nature. So what kind of photographer am I? A GOOD one, I'd hope you'd say!

This has been a very special year both personally and professionally. I got married, and photographed many lovely couples getting married including some very close friends! I've said before, I'm so lucky that I get to celebrate my love of photography by photographing those who are in love!

I did my first printed interviews with CityLink Magazine, and New Times. I began freelancing with Broward-Palm Beach New Times.

I met some amazing people along the way and am already busy with projects to make this year even more fulfilling (is that possible?!)

Thank you for you support!

In Love and Gratitude,

Monica

2010's LAST Photoshoot!: Chris and Bekah, Maternity Session

2010-12-31T20:38:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year Everyone! Here's an image from my photoshoot this morning with Chris and Bekah, who are expecting their little one in February:

May this year bring you peace of mind, good health, and plenty of joy!

Love,

Monica

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-27T14:36:00.005-05:00

This year I was blessed with getting sick during the holidays. I am in no way complaining, in fact just the opposite. Work-wise, this was the best scheduled time for me to be sick with only personal parties to attend to. (No one wants a photographer that is missing photos because of sneezing and having to blow their nose every second minute or so.) I did have to back out of a couple personal enagements, but my friends and family were very understanding!

p.s. Thank you, Mom, for telling me I sounded like "Rudolph with that thing on his nose" when I called to wish you and Dad a Merry Christmas.

Reindeer, abstract. A present I wrapped for my Mother-in-Law.

I did have a wedding to attend yesterday, I was able to enjoy being a guest (though a mildly under the weather guest) which is rare for me. It was important to Cat and Barry to include their daughter/step-daughter in the celebration by having her perspective as the official wedding photographer. :) In addition they also had several disposable film cameras on the tables to include the perspectives of the guests. My contribution to Cat and Barry's wedding, aside from my well wishes of course, was their engagement photos (view some photos here) and also their gift to the guests. They'd asked me to put together a design for a musical cd gift. Here are a couple photos:

The process.

So Happy Holidays to everyone out there! I hope to have a photo year in review, up soon :) Stay tuned...

Year End Wedding!: Cat and Barry

2010-12-26T11:09:00.002-05:00

The third wedding in three months of another one of my good friends, this time it's Cat and Barry! Before I head off to the wedding at the Weston Hyatt, I thought I'd share a few of my favorite images from their engagement session that I shot last month:

Yes, they're ballroom dancers too :)

Photographed at a beautiful location in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida! Can you believe it's Winter??

CONGRATULATIONS!!

Yogic Inspiration: The Love of Doing Dishes

2010-12-15T09:27:00.007-05:00

As a yoga instructor it is my intention to share information that I've learned directly through my own yogic practice. My Guru, Yogi Amrit Desai says, "you teach who you are." So here is a website I stumbled upon which offers a story that I connected with. I've also included the story below:

Finding Enlightenment in the Most Surprising Places
© 2005 Corinne McLaughlin

"One of the most significant dreams I’ve ever had came to me over 30 years ago when I first began my search for enlightenment. I still remember it today and cherish its wisdom-- and I’m still working to embody what I learned, as it is the cornerstone of the spiritual path.

The dream began when I went to hear a lecture by a spiritual teacher, a young white man whom I admired and heard speak many times. There were hundreds of students attending his talk. They all saw him as a great guru and brought him flowers and fruit. He gave a very wonderful and inspiring talk, full of deep spiritual truths.

Then I blinked, and the scene suddenly shifted, and I seemed to travel into the future. I knew somehow that I had advanced spiritually, and was now attending another spiritual lecture. This time it was held in a very unusual futuristic building. But I noticed there were much fewer students in attendance than the previous lecture.

I realized it was because this time the teacher was a black man, and racial prejudice kept people from hearing the same deep spiritual truths from him. I was told that any type of prejudice could prevent someone from hearing the same great truths. Some people couldn’t hear it from a woman, or from someone of a different religion, for example. But I knew I was more advanced now, and I could accept deep spiritual teachings from any authentic teacher, regardless of how he or she appeared.

But then most remarkably, the scene shifted again and knew I had advanced even further on the spiritual path. Now I was in the kitchen of an ordinary house and there were hardly any other students left. I knew I was there for the same deep spiritual teachings, but where was the teacher?

Then the realization suddenly hit me: the teaching at that moment was doing the dirty dishes in the sink with love!

Now I’m one of those people who don’t exactly get super excited about doing the dishes. So this realization made me feel sick to stomach. I had to lie down. I just couldn’t believe it! So this is the really advanced teaching?!!

Yes, I was told inwardly. It’s all about finding the Teacher within you--not outside yourself. You find the face of God that is your own face. The Buddha said, “Look within: thou art the Buddha.” Your true Teacher is your soul, the Divine Presence within you. This is where you’ll find your most reliable source of guidance for your life. When you work with your inner Teacher, you learn to do everything with love, even the most mundane tasks such as the dishes. You learn to be more fully present in each moment, more fully awake and aware.

This dream reminded me of the ancient wisdom, “Before enlightenment, chopping wood, carrying water. After enlightenment, chopping wood, carrying water”—but now you do everything with love."

Here are a few more of my favorite articles from the site, some offering great meditations:
ATTENTION: The Most Precious Resource
How to Keep Spiritually Sane in Challenging Times
The Art of the Observer

Palm Beach County Photographer: Triple Maternity Session, Cont.

2010-12-13T11:00:00.015-05:00

As of yesterday, December 12, 2010 all three babies have arrived from the triple maternity session I did a couple months back!

I wish each family congratulations and lots of love. I hope to photograph the "rocker" babies someday but right now it's a blessing just to know that they've arrived. Special thoughts and prayers go out to the Snow family as they've been on a journey of events since their son Harrison was born. I encourage you read the blog about their story, and keep them in your heart while they overcome what has been placed in their path.

As I was speaking with a friend yesterday, I was reminded of a program that offers support in these types of circumstances for residents of Palm Beach County. Thank you to my friend, Tomas Boiton, for the reminder of Healthy Beginnings. Tomas is an advocate for many great programs in this County and the creator of the company "Citizens 4 Improved Transit."

Event Photography: Corporate Holiday Party, West Palm Beach

2010-12-10T22:52:00.001-05:00

Hailing form Northern Michigan, it's days like today that I am reminded why it's great to live in South Florida! The weather was gorgeous, especially after this cold snap we've had. I know "cold" to Floridians will never compete with the Lake effect snow and wind chill factors that reach into the negatives as is common "up North," but 37 degrees absolutely felt cold to me in comparison to Florida's humidity and heat. Here are a couple images from a corporate holiday party that took place today at the National Crouquet Center in West Palm Beach.

I didn't even know this place exsisted and am so excited about the discovery! They host events and are very open to having newcomers out on the course. Althought I was enjoying the weather and always love photographing the Kitson and Partners crew, I made sure to grab an events schedule and a menu as I'd really like to get a group of friends together to go play croquet!

Palm Beach County Photographer: November Contest WINNER, Andrea and Marlowe

2010-12-10T00:07:00.002-05:00

So I did a Thanksgiving weekend giveaway and the winner won a free one hour photo session from me. The winner was new mom, Andrea with her adorable baby Marlowe. I've been busy editing weddings but took a short break just to quickly organize some from this session. I had to post this. :) More soon!!

P.S. Andrea has an amazing blog that you should read. Lots of cute photos of Marlowe!

Action shot of Marlowe attempting to eat her mother's arm. (She didn't succeed.)

An Exciting Day: John Ralston Album Released

2010-12-09T15:52:00.000-05:00

It's been 3 years since the last John Ralston release so today makes for a very exciting day! Both musically, and personally as I was fortunate enough to be the photographer for the album. There's a very limited production of the special 7inch vinyl release so I'd suggest you order yours today! I already ordered both the red and white versions. They're only $5.00! Also, be sure to check out the label's description of the songs HERE.

(If you don't want the album you can get the digital downloads.)

Peace
Love &
Rock n' Roll,

~Monica

Palm Beach County Photographer: October 2010 Wedding: Robert and Stacy

2010-12-08T00:12:00.005-05:00

Mr. and Mrs. Howe.

CONGRATULATIONS to another amazing couple that I felt so fortunate to photograph. Robert and Stacy are neighbors and close friends to my husband and I. When they go out of town we get to dog sit for their very cute dog, "Bear."

Their wedding was intimate with around 30 guests and it couldn't have been more lovely. Stacy and Rob did a great job of making sure the details were completed with consciousness. All the way down to the beeswax candles that lit the room with a soft yellow glow, emitting happy ions as we all celebrated. (So the candle-makers say!) Personally, I didn't think we needed any extra reason to be happy on such an already joyful occasion.

Not just another beautiful bride! I'm lucky to have Stacy as a friend. She was one of my bridesmaids just earlier this year. In fact, she helped plan and coordinate my amazing bridal shower that took place in the very room where I created this portrait of her on her wedding day!

Palm Beach County Photographer: McGorry Wedding SNEAK PEEK

2010-12-06T16:56:00.004-05:00

***UPDATE*** View the complete McGorry wedding day photos here

Where do I begin with this couple? Two very beautiful friends allowed me to share in their special day. Greg and Justine were married on November 20th, 2010 and I am sharing just the tiniest bit of imagery that resulted from that day of joy....I will be sure to fill in the details as the editing slows down and I find the words to explain how spectacular this wedding was! Count this as the first of many installments ;)

The new "Mrs. Greg McGorry."

Greg and Justine were married at the First Presbyterian Church in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

Custom Photo Cards

2010-11-22T09:30:00.001-05:00

I knew after I had the shoot with adorable Mia that her Mom was going to have a tough time choosing the final images. So we did a very special project that I wanted to share: custom photo cards! She got four sets of 16 different poses of watercolor printed art cards to give as gifts to her family. I really loved how they turned out, and Mia's mom did too! Here's a quick snapshot:

Selection of the "Mia" cards

Printed on watercolor paper then hand-torn for the deckle edge look. The notecards pictured are a metallic gold, and come with matching envelopes. A great gift!

Monica McGivern - One Life Photos

2010-11-15T14:02:00.001-05:00

Here's a link to a photo competition I entered. Why not try? It's only ten dollars for a one in a million chance to win $25,000. And if I don't win the money at least I got created a few new images in preparation for it! Click the link to see one of my latest self-portaits, shot for this competition:

Monica McGivern - One Life Photos

For the Designers/Photogs in My Life...

2010-11-01T13:40:00.000-04:00

Does anyone else envision the world in PSD? I remember going outside after breaking from a long editing session one day and thinking the sky's midtones needed to be punched up a bit. Here's a cute video for those of you whose glasses are shades of Photoshop:

I Have PSD from Hyperakt on Vimeo.

Almost that time...

2010-10-28T08:52:00.003-04:00

Last year this was the result of a pumpkin carving get together that I thought was so much fun!

This year I'll be shooting West Palm Beach's Moonfest Festival for Broward/Palm Beach New Times! Can't wait to share the slideshow....looks like I'll be dressing as a photographer for my costume this year.

In the meantime, check out my FIRST ever gig shooting for the New Times HERE. It was the amazing indie Art Fair, Stitchrock, organized by local cupcake connoisseur Miss Amanda Linton.

Palm Beach Gardens Bridal Shower for Justine

2010-10-25T09:13:00.000-04:00

I had the pleasure of photographing a friend's bridal shower! Justine will be marrying Greg in less than one month. I'll also be photographing their wedding and if this shower is any sign of things to come, you'll be sure to know why I'm honored...the whole event this past Saturday was just beautiful! From the hibiscus iced tea to the gourmet buffet, to the devotion of the guests to honor Justine's committment to the blessed life that we know she and Greg will share together. Here are just a few photos of the day:

The Atmosphere

Table Settings

The Food!

Tasty Hibiscus Tea

The Beautiful Bride-to-Be and the Flowergirl

The Cake (Yum!)

Some of the Lovely Guests

Traditions

Junior Bridesmaids and the Flowergirl practicing their Smiles

Thank you Justine for an opportunity to share in your joy. You're going to make a beautiful bride!

Palm Beach County Photographer Documents Three Rockstar Mom-to-Be's

2010-10-21T11:43:00.004-04:00

PLEASE READ:New Times Magazine article.

So we did this photoshoot a couple months ago. The girls were amazing and so full of energy! Thank you to each of them for allowing me to document this special time in their lives! Also, many thanks to Courtney Hambright for loving the photo in the first place.

Jezek, Snow, and DiValentine

My favorite part of being a photographer is learning to see the passion and abundance that others are grateful for in their lives. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a photographer, and this allows me to see the spirit in others. To me, this is the essence of each photo project I embark upon. Thank you Courtney for combining my photographic vision of the beautiful spirits which Tiffany, Susan and Valerie embody, into an alluring portrait of words.

AND last but certainly not least is a huge THANK YOU (capital letters!) to one of my mentors "in the biz," Rhea Lewis. Rhea was the one who supplied the "l," "o," "v," and "e" for this photoshoot both literally and figuratively speaking. I knew how Susan was feeling when she said in the article that I made them feel "so special and beautiful" because this is exactly how I felt when I had the opportunity to be photographed by Rhea during my bridal portrait session.

Bridal Portrait of me by Rhea Lewis

Look for more of this session on Rhea's facebook page

Rhea has taught me so much from the business of photography to the amazing talent it takes to create a fine art baby portrait. So thank you Rhea for all of your help with this shoot and beyond! :)

YES!

2010-10-19T00:46:00.001-04:00

Chris Horgan (of Eskimohunter/Sweet Bronco fame) said I was a good singer. Courtney, my ego loves your boyfriend.

10.10.10- Worldwide Moment Captured

2010-10-10T07:12:00.001-04:00

Here's my "Worldwide Moment" image captured at 10:10am (6:10am EST!)

My internal clock has had me working LATE in the evenings so I knew 6:10 would come early. About 5 minutes before the "moment" happened I decided what I wanted to shoot. I had some paint laying around from my cd album cover experimentations. Since John Lennon's 70th birthday celebration had just passed, it's a tribute to him.

Palm Beach County Photographer Documents Local Band

2010-10-08T17:10:00.002-04:00

Wow what a busy last couple of months! So many photos to share...here's a few photos from the shoot last night with "Luna Rex." The band contacted me after they had won a huge competition sponsored by Gator Cases. Luna Rex won the grand prize of a complete custom outfitting of cases for their band! In addition they got a professional photoshoot to document all of their precious new winnings. So I was honored to be recommended by the band and Gator Cases accepted! While I work on the final commercial images, here are a few fun ones taken at the very impressive Dc Rhearsal in downtown West Palm Beach. What a great space to shoot photos! (I hear there rates for rehearsal space are great too.) Anyway, thank you to everyone involved. Enjoy these:

*Dc Rehearsal does not condone underground betting on arm wrestling matches

Jon-Guitar/lead vocals

Paul-Guitar

Heath-Bass Guitar

Angel-Percussion

Just for fun.

Inspirations, Part II: Andy Goldsworthy, Land Artist, Sculptor, Photographer

2010-09-12T01:31:00.001-04:00

This is a montage from the documentary of Artist Andy Goldsworthy, called "Rivers and Tides."

I do believe it's time to retreat back to nature. I am so inspired by this man's sculptures. Luckily I will be in Ocala next week. I look forward to sharing the result of this discovery.

For now I have the beach. This was my inspired photograph after having seen "Rivers and Tides". I wanted to capture the moment when the ocean met my footprint.

Continuing my Practice

2010-09-11T10:30:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I had an amazing yoga class (as always) taught by Laura at Harmony Martial Arts.

Laura Cole Baker
Photo: Monica McGivern

When I went to pursue my journey further at the Amrit Yoga Institute I was told how important it is that you don't replace your personal practice with your "teaching practice. In fact how could you? One quickly realizes that you can only teach who you are, meaning without the direct experiences, how do you have anything BUT the ego to teach from. To be a teacher you must be a life-long student. In fact this is the conversation that Laura and I had after class as she so humbly stated, I tell people I am just a "sharer. We are all just sharing our experiences."

Laura Cole Baker
Photo: Monica McGivern

What I love about Laura's classes is how thoroughly she describes the modifications and tips for getting the most out of the pose without going too far. It's a physically challenging vinyasa/ashtanga flow but her attention to detail as to where each student is at all along the way allows her to direct you in and out of the poses safely. It's very refreshing and iinspirational to hear your instructor describe their direct experiences instead of just relaying information.

Perspective

2010-09-10T19:51:00.000-04:00

Wow I feel blessed!

Old-fashioned oatmeal made by my husband with chocolate soy milk and organic bananas and coconut. Plus, french pressed organic hazelnut coffee with organic dark cocoa and cinnamon.

Supporting the Local Music Scene

2010-09-09T11:56:00.000-04:00

Hoping Ian makes his goal! There's a great "scene" here to document...

Good luck Ian!

Listening

2010-09-08T09:07:00.000-04:00

"The art of receiving
is learning to let go
and lose everything
we think is ours." -Yogi Amrit Desai

What we think, we can't possibly know. Knowing is the language of the heart, not the mind.

Featured Teacher

2010-09-07T12:36:00.002-04:00

I am honored to be featured by the Amrit Yoga Institute.

Here is a link to the article. Once there, click on the "August 2010" Newsletter.

Thank you to Daniel Millay for the yoga photo of me performing the "wheel" pose.

If anyone is interested in more information about hosting a yoga party please ask!

Album Cover Design

2010-09-05T08:20:00.002-04:00

Here's an album cover I designed for local band "Blond Fuzz." CLick here for the article by Reed Fischer at the Broward/Palm Beach New Times about my creative process.

"Stop It!"

2010-09-03T14:18:00.000-04:00

It's so easy for the mind to wander forward to fears of the unknown or back into reactions derived from the past...the trick is to train the puppy-like mind to "sit and stay" in the present moment. Here's a great technique as demonstrated by Bob Newhart ;)

Thank you to Yogi E of Yoga Pura for passing this along.

"Once"

2010-08-29T12:40:00.003-04:00

Watched a movie that was recommended to me by the all knowing and powerful, Netflix. If you haven't stopped wasting your money on cable tv and just signed up for Netflix, I'd recommend it now. That in combination with FREE books and DVD and CD rentals from the library are more information than anyone could ever hope to take in. Plus reading a couple of choice Blogs or two. ;)

So this movie was about an Irish street musician who meets a girl and they make beautiful music together. What I loved most was that in real life the actors actually were musicians/actors and the won an Academy Award for the music that they wrote specifically for this movie. Listen to this song and you will know why:

As they wandered around the city I was reminded of the series "Before Sunrise" and "Before Sunset" starring Julie Delpy and Ethan Hawke who were each actors/musicians who ad libbed 90% of the movies. Both worth checking out.

Blessed.

2010-08-29T07:45:00.003-04:00

All things inspired have a tendency to come to me in the morning, before I've let the weight of the days tasks inside my head. Before I step to the computer to see how everyone else seems to be so far ahead of me. I tend to find my inspiration through quite moments of writing while drinking a cup of tea. I had the most perfect spot in my old apartment where I would read and write and drink my tea while feeling the sun filter through the shades. This self-portrait was born of those moments.

I remember reading somewhere a person who was saying that when they were young they felt the pressure to "have it all." Meaning the great apartment, the amazing relationship/family, a great career..all of the typical wants that people think will make them happy. Then she realized at a certain point that you can have it all, maybe just not at the same time. So then it becomes so important to truly value that which is before you. Count your blessings! I do believe I shouldn't free-write on the computer. In the years that I've been free-writing I take approximately 20 minutes (or longer) to write everything that appears in my thoughts. A to-do list, memories of dreams, things I want and things that sometimes just flow out of the pen beyond what I could've ever conjured up by allowing my thoughts to get involved. This is an amazing exercise to just move energy. For some reason I'm on the computer typing away today and I realized the reason I shouldn't do this on the computer is that:

#1 I can't see my handwriting.
#2 I never read back through my free-writing because if there's emotional things there's a tendency to get drawn back into them once you read it. Writing is a form of letting go
#3 I can't tell when I've reached my three pages!

So for all of these reasons I think I need to stick to the page for this exercise. But one of my to-do list items is to update my blog. I have a hard time thinking people actually want to read about my "stuff." Maybe there will be a day when I'm able to structure this more. Right now I just jumping from yoga to photography to free-writing ;) When all else fails, post some photos ;)

Enjoy your day!
May you realize the quality of your blessings...

"Love Music" Maternity Session

2010-08-25T14:58:00.002-04:00

I couldn't be happier with how the images turned out in my latest triple maternity session! These girls are all affiliated with John Ralston's Invisible Music which is why I wanted to do a music themed image. The lucky babies have already been exposed to some of the greatest music in South Florida ;) Just watch this Invisible Music clip as an example:

Do you agree?

p.s. The clip was filmed by Robert Rutherford, aka "Gingerman" Please check out more of his clips as he's got great dedication to filming what music is what here in S. Florida. He's also a nice guy.

Inspirations Part I: Ernst Haas, Photographer

2010-08-20T13:31:00.001-04:00

I first learned of phtographer Ernst Haas in one of my earliest classes while attending the Art Institute of Ft Lauderdale. I remember my instructor, Diane Blazy talking about how Haas was a photo-journalist for Life Magazine who was never really given assignments but was allowed to travel and send back his work for publication. If you see his images, you'll immediately know why. For example, the "Snow Lovers" image below was one of the first to capture my attention:

I feel the beauty is in the art of seeing the image in the frst place. Take a look at this image as well, another one of my favorites for it's abstract perfection, a black and white image entitled, "New Mexico":

There are so many more if you'd like to explore his work further at this website.

What is most intriguing is that along with Haas's photos, it seems to me that his philosophies are of great depth as well. His quotes have been especially inspirational as well which leads me to believe that much more in his artistic vision. Here are just a few of the quotes I have used in my journey as an artist;

"Photography is a bridge between science and art. It brings to science what it needs most,the artistic sence, and to art the proof that nothing can be imagined which cannot be matched in the counterpoints of nature."

"The camera doesn't make a bit of difference. All of them can record what you are seeing. But, you have to SEE."

"There is only you and your camera. The limitations in your photography are in yourself, for what we see is what we are."

Fresh Art: Monica McGivern

2010-08-18T20:19:00.001-04:00

When Collen Doughner of City Link Magazine called, I was a little concerned about the two cups of coffee I had just drank on an empty stomach. I am happy to share that she expertly sifted through my ramblings to create this piece about me as an artist:

Fresh Art: Monica McGivern

Did Andy Warhol predict this? I'd like to hope the "15 minutes of fame" allows me to showcase all of those people who have inspired me along the way!

My husband, for example...

of Montreal Polaroids

2010-08-17T14:57:00.000-04:00

I'll be updating this with time. Wait isn't that the definition of a blog? What I mean is that I know I have a lot of fun of Montreal pictures that I'll be posting so be sure to check back in the future if you're interested. Thank you.

Keep Going Keep Going Keep Going....

2010-08-17T11:24:00.005-04:00

I've been very fortunate these past couple of weeks to have had some attention from some very crafty writers. A lot of this attention has been garnered from the Lake Worth Photo Project series.

Article by Colleen Dougher of "City Link Magazine"

Article by Monica Uszerowicz of Broward/Palm Beach's New Times "County Grind"

Here's a photo I took of New Times' Courtney Hambright's article about the Lake Worth-It Music Festival.

This article also appeared online. Isn't that a great photo of John Ralston? (That was a trick because if you said yes I can now say:) I took it! After John's photo was done for the Lake Worth Photo Project, John asked me to do an impromptu photo session in Honeycomb.com creator, Steev Rullman's backyard. I don't want to get anyone's (MY) hopes up, but John said a photo from that session may go in his new cd.....

ANOTHER great write up from Courtney detailing the Lake Worth-It Music Fest can be found on her website, moodvane.com
The day after te festival was the first time I "officially" met Courtney, as I knew her name from various New Times reviews. This was the night I sang with fire Zuave as we and Sweet Bronco opened for of Montreal frontman, Kevin Barnes. This is what Courtney had to say about her night (again found on her blog):

"I went up early for the sound check, which put me in the path of Monica McGivern, with whom I spoke for about an hour. She’s the photographer/artist who did the black and white photos of Palm Beach musicians. I was slow to admit that I missed her exhibit at the festival. I was very happy to learn that she put the photos up on her website foodshelterart.She got up on stage to sing with Fire Zuave, and harmonized with frontman Chuck Andrews beautifully. Wow, how can one person have so many different talents? Spending a bit of one on one with Monica was one of my favorite experiences of the weekend."

Soo nice! I especially love what she said next as she referred to myself and New Times photographer, Ian Witlen, as rockstars who don't need guitars.

I've met so many interesting people through a shared love of music.......

Polaroids

2010-08-16T19:59:00.001-04:00

I've been making a few digital "polaroids."
While preparing for a drive down to Miami to see bands "The Jameses" and "Guy Harvey", my friend Anita and I listen to "Rat People" by The Jameses. We really enjoy local bands. We also really enjoy local bands that are putting out LP's. Thanks guys. It was a very lively show! I personally find Miami a bit intimidating but am always intrigued each time I go...this show was worth the drive!

I found a free font online. I'm hoping it's not laced with viruses because I really enjoy being able to use my laptop. I have been known to spend hours at Barnes and Noble oogling fonts and graphic design color scheme books. I look forward to using this font to etch beautiful pixels across colorful images again and again....stay tuned!

Lake Worth Photo Project-Part IV of IV

2010-08-13T12:10:00.000-04:00

Morgan Long
Nathan Jezek
Thomas Beals
Tiffany Jezek
Steev Rullman
Simone Puleo
Susan Snow
Terrence McBride
Paul J. McBride
Zachary Dewar

Lake Worth Photo Project-Part III

2010-08-11T21:35:00.001-04:00

Jesse Dalton
John Ralston
Mitchell Myers
Jordy Asher Cruz
Jordan Pettingill
Julie Blumel
Kenzie Cooke
Michael Kaminski
Kevin Williams
Jon Glassman

Lake Worth Photo Project-Part II

2010-08-10T09:19:00.000-04:00

Chuck Andrews
Dan Bonebrake
Evan Mui
David Barnard
Gene Pandolfi
Greg Lovell
Hannah Thorslund
Jeff Rose
Jeff Snow
Jeph Thorslund

Lake Worth Photo Project Part I

2010-08-09T12:34:00.002-04:00

My latest project was exhibited last Saturday. I photographed 40 musicians from the Lake Worth area to begin a documentation project that I plan to continue. Next year around this time I'd like to put out a book. For now though, here are the 40 musicians together on a poster, plus the first ten individual images in the series:

Adam Sheetz
Anthony Dewar
Andrew Locke
Armand Ignelzi
Andrew McAusland
Brea Burney
Brian Davis
Carmen Kinze
Cecil Lunsford
Chris Cartrett and "Fannie"

A Little Press

2010-08-04T15:17:00.000-04:00

Article about the Lake Worth-It Festival with a photo I did of John Ralston.
Click Here.

Just Add Light.

2010-03-10T08:31:00.000-05:00

While staying with a friend I was intrigued by these shadows.

You would think by this view that the whole house is covered in ivy but I went outside and the only place it was growing was in front of this window, making for an interesting illusion. You can only see shadows when there is light.

Stay bright ;)

One of the voices I hear in my head....i.e. An Amazing Instructor

2010-02-27T22:18:00.000-05:00

Senior Amrit Yoga instructor Eric Walrabenstein or "Yogi E" has been an inspiration in my ever expanding yogic journey. Please visit his website after you read these words of his that I found inspiring:

"Zen Master Dogen once said: “Practice as if saving your head from fire.” And in this, he was half right. The unfortunate truth is that for many of us, we practice ardently and with the best of intentions, all the while making strident gains in the wrong direction. The problem is that the ego stands perpetually ready to co-opt the practices that were originally intended to set us free—digging us deeper into the pit of the sense of a separate self.

I practice diligently; I am a good meditator, I am at peace, I am compassionate, I am humble, I am pure divine bliss, I, I, I, I, I. To become free, we must get clarity regarding who or what this “I” is—and not just intellectually, but experientially. Our practices were not conceived to make us calmer, more compassionate, or more pleasant; they were created to ultimately set us free from that which is capable of being calm/agitated, compassionate/greedy, or pleasant/irritating. They are offered for the purpose setting us free from the ego, not to spruce it up making it the shiniest, friendliest, and most spiritual ego on the block. In other words, it’s about freedom folks."

While at the Amrit Institute I was fortunate to be taught by Yogi E. The clarity in which he describes the practice of authentic yoga allows me to focus my intention of connecting with my Truth, so that I may teach others from this experiential space. His teachings inspire me to stay present with what is and let go of the rest, allowing my Self to be revealed which is the greatest present that I could ever (but would never) ask for.

The Gentle Power of Tonglen

2010-01-21T11:13:00.146-05:00

I was first attracted to Pema Chodron's writing after seeing a beautiful photograph on the cover of one of her books. Note: I was not judging, just appreciating the artwork. The photograph was black and white of a steep wooden stairwell that led to the moody, wavy ocean below, appropriately titled; Comfortable with Uncertainty. Now I must admit, I have not read the book in it's entirity so if you are expecting a synopsis of the helpful information that has dramatically changed my life as well as lessons in how to change your own without spending $14.95 plus tax and hours of reading, you may be disappointed. However, if you are interested in the roundabout way in which a simple decision led to a gradual transformation of my ability to consciously turn pain into compassion, read on...

On this particular day I was playing the game that I often play with the Universe of, "flip the pages of a book and whatever sentence I land on is the Divine message that I am supposed to acknowledge." I also used to play this game as a kid with the omniscient Yellow Pages to find my true profession, although, so far the prophecy of me becoming a plumber has yet to fully take seat. So I flipped through the pages of the book whose content I was not judging based on the well designed cover and the profound message that was brought to me was, well, honestly I can't remember. However, I do remember that I loved everything about the cover of that book, so much so that I made a mental note to research the author.

I Asked Jeeves about(not quite as catchy as "Googel'd" but with my level of curiosity it makes since to save four letters' typing time with "aj.com" vs. "google.com") Pema Chodron and found out that she is a is a Buddhist nun and the director of Gampo Abbey, a monastery in Nova Scotia. I also found an audio set of cd's that I bought as I find it's easiest to find enlightenment while in trying situations such as a traffic jam. I began to listen to the cd's, Good Medicine in which Chodron talks about the power of
Tonglen Meditation

This meditation practice fits in beautifully with the teachings of Yogi Amrit Desai. In fact, Yogi Desai states that "we are all born with the urge to merge..." beyond the dualities which in this case Chodron uses, "pleasure and pain." By removing the isolation we feel in times of pain, we are able to once again connect with humanity into a feeling of comfort with uncertainty. The same goes with the separation we may feel in the pride of pleasure. Instead of pride, Chodron teaches us to share the feeling of pleasure through awareness and compassion which once again connects us into the wholeness of Divine spirit that is beyond pleasure and pain.

"Practice, practice, practice.
But even deeper than that;
Trust. Trust. Trust."-Yogi Amrit Desai

Yoga Day USA 2009

2009-11-18T08:08:00.001-05:00

For anyone interested in a FREE event in the Palm Beach area to explore yoga, mark January 17th, 2009 on your calandars! Last year I helped taking photos and was so impressed with how well this event was run. Click here for more info: Yoga Day USA

This is an opportunity to try different styles and teachers while coming together as a community and it's all free! Be sure to try one of my favorite yoga instructors, Andrea Pepper. She's scheduled to teach at 3:00. (Schedule subject to change) Andrea has done fundraising for a foundation called, "Off The Mat into the World" which helps the needy in Uganda. You can read more on her website: Amala Yoga.

I'll be there with my camera and my yoga mat...hope to see you there too!!

Photography by Monica

2009-11-10T17:36:00.000-05:00

I am currently working on a series with horses. Inspired by the life of a friend and great artist, Clementina Brown who is an amazingly magical spirit that I feel so fortunate to have connected with. If you have a moment, please look at her website. We're planning to unveil photos from this series in May 2010. The exhibition will be in Loxahatchee, Florida and it will be an outdoor gala with all of the horses present that I'm photographing. I'll be sure to keep you updated as the event appproaches...
Photo of "Ruby" the Pony

Shapeshifting

Grace

2009-11-10T17:12:00.000-05:00

When you truly let go you are able to discover that which already is.

How do you let go?

Recognize that you are holding on. (Don't get caught in your mind here, if you try to pin-point exactly what it is that you're holding onto, you will become stuck in struggle)
Accept whatever is as is.
Breath.
Let go.
Repeat as needed.

If it seems that you can't let go, accept that you can't let go.
Be okay with where you are.
Life unfolds in its own organic way.

Jai Bhagwan.

A Quote

2009-11-01T10:27:00.005-05:00

Genius, in truth, means little more than the faculty of perceiving in an un-habitual way.- Willam James

Pumpkin Carving and Potluck

2009-10-30T10:31:00.003-04:00

Halloween 2009.

FOCUSED on my Mantra

2009-10-30T09:54:00.005-04:00

MY PHILOSOPHY:
When I dream, I dream BIG! As an artist, I don't think I'm alone when I look at the world as a blank canvas in which I supply the colors. Why is that a problem? If you're too busy appreciating the subtle hues instead of painting, eventually the paint dries up before you've finished the masterpiece. Or like most dreamers, before you've even lifted the brush.

Creative thinkers often become distracted which leads to frustration. If you are distracted, you are "leaking" energy. This is why I've developed the mantra of "foodshelterart." Repetition of a mantra allows for stillness of the mind which leads to clarity of the true Self. If I can see myself clearly, then I can express myself completely. Through the techniques acquired under the direct study of artist and Beloved Guru, Yogi Amrit Desai, I have developed my own mantra of how to live artfully. Simple repetition of the mantra, foodshelterart (the basic necessities of my life) has kept me aligned along my creative path.

Artful living requires an observation about whether you are CREATING a block in your energy or expressing the energy moving through you. In my experience as a photographic artist I watch the world through the lens of a camera. But it is not about my passion for photography, it is about what I am doing in the moments that I don't have the camera in hand that allow me to express myself as a photographer fully. Being present allows me to observe how I interact with the world, and then document it when I pick up my camera.

MY MISSION:
I would like make "foodshelterart" the mantra of the modern artist. Relying on the knowledge attained through the teachings of ancient yogic traditions, I will help others learn techniques about how to use their energy most efficiently through conscious, artful living.

Other Side of the Camera

2009-10-26T12:09:00.003-04:00

Photos: Daniel Millay

I asked fellow photographer and friend, Daniel Millay to take some photographs of me practicing yoga. As with most photographers, it's rare that I'm in front of the camera, but this was a great experience! Please check out some of Daniel's work when you have a moment.

I'm really enjoying this journey of merging yoga and photography as there are so many ways in which my creativity is effected by yoga, and vice-versa. Possibly because when you are dropping into the "zone" as it is often called in sports, you are connecting with your higher state of being. Your greater Self.
You lose all track of time and therefore let go of self-imposed barriers and filters. You become enlightened from the burden of stress and get lost in the creation of BE-ing.

Let the world know you as you are, not as you think you should be, because sooner or later, if you are posing, you will forget the pose, and then where are you? -Fanny Brice

It's always there.

2009-10-25T19:18:00.000-04:00

It's always there for you to discover. What is "it"?

"It" is still amongst chaos.
"It" is still amongst emotions.
"It" is still amongst all sensations.

To discover "it," ask your Self the following questions:
What techniques do I use that move me toward stillness?
What habits move me away from stillness?

I'll give you some time to experiement and I'd love to hear of your discoveries along the Way....

Jai Bhagwan.

Great (short!) Video

2009-10-13T10:16:00.004-04:00

Please enjoy this video of my Guru, Yogi Amrit Desai. I can almost perform the posture flow he does but am still working on bringing my feet into lotus while in headstand. Keep practicing!

The first part of the video takes place in Salt Springs (Ocala) Florida where I had the pleasure of attending for my teaching certification. Here is one of my photographs taken while meditating on the beautiful Lake Kerr.

"The Quiet Choice" by Monica Kustra

The Organic Way

2009-10-11T15:31:00.000-04:00

Life is an organic process in which we must maintain a commitment to leaving unprocessed by the ego-mind.

KARMA Yoga

2009-10-09T08:36:00.003-04:00

Here are a few words of GRACE from Gurudev, Yogi Amrit Desai:

Grace
This non-reactive way of being is living in the "fire." It takes great courage to sit still and surrender. Meditation helps. That quiet approach to constantly alternating positive and negative experiences is the ultimate, invincible defense. Sitting in that fire is the real surrender of ego. When the ego burns, grace showers. You are taken to the unified field of all creativity - Self-sourcing. In this surrendered state, all evolutionary expressions and actions spontaneously and effortlessly emerge. In this grace, your highest desires are fulfilled without having to strive for them. Such desires are founded not in separative consciousness, but in the field of unity and integration. When intelligence is rooted in the field of unity consciousness, you are grounded in Self-sourcing, and can act with maximum creativity and efficiency. The action itself is self-fulfilling rather than the end result. Instead of reaction, there is only Reality.
Yogi Amrit Desai is a world renowned teacher and author on yoga and consciousness. Originally from India, he has based himself in the United States for over 35 years.

From the Trans Quarterly, Spring 1997, Volume 12, No. 1, Page 11-12.

Lions and Tigers and MIND, oh my!

2009-10-05T12:26:00.000-04:00

Yoga under palm trees
Gentle breeze
Reminding you to breath
Observing the animals
You're not supposed to feed...

This sign on the way into the park made me laugh as I knew immediately I could mention it in class. What "animal" should we be mindful of? The mind, of course! We have the option to use our attention to feed our thoughts, or we can remove our attention and simply observe the problem-making monster in progress.

NOW

2009-09-26T12:35:00.005-04:00

Photos:Rachel Kemper

As I mentioned before, I'm now officially certified as an Amrit Yoga Instructor! I am so happy about this transition in my life that allows me to share with others what I myself have experienced through the teachings of my Yoga Guru, Amrit Desai, also referred to as "Gurudev" which means "Beloved Guru."

As I begin this journey of teaching it's almost overwhelming to think, "where do I start?" I have received so many gifts that reach far beyond knowing the correct position of the asanas on the yoga mat. I say ALMOST overwhelming because one of the most powerful gifts from Amrit Yoga is the skill to observe your thoughts, reactions and habitual patterns as they come up, and then realize that you have a choice to either dismantle that reaction, or to REACT to the reaction. For example, my first reaction would be the thought arising, "where do I start?" As I notice this thought I am then at a point where a habitual pattern might be to attach myself to the feeling of stress that arises with that thought. I could allow my mind to continue with, "how am I ever going to teach people everything I know?" or "will they understand me?" or "what if they don't like me??" This is a great example of what Gurudev says that, "we think we have control over our minds, but really our minds have us!" So how do you let go of the destructive second reaction? As soon as you realize that you are caught in a habit, the simplest thing to do is to connect to your body and the present moment by taking a slow deliberate breath (or a few!). When you are in a destructive thought pattern you are not aligned with what is present in the moment. You are worried about what will happen tomorrow, or reacting to a condition of the past. The TRUTH is, all that you have and all that you could ever need is happening right NOW! How can anything ever be different than how it is right now? Align your Self and ACCEPT that everything is as it should be, right now.

All of the energy we give toward fear and our ego minds is exactly what you'll learn to dismantle with Amrit Yoga! As we practice on the mat, we observe what our mind is doing during the deliberate action, willful surrender, and each transitioning moment in between the poses. The more we learn to observe, the less we react from our mis-alignment to what is happening NOW.