Fotografaire - Blog and Photography

Holocaust Remembrance Day

Holocaust Remembrance day…Yom Hashoah…is a holiday that is set aside to remember those who were murdered during the Holocaust, those who survived, and those who fought for survival for themselves and others. This year it takes place on May 2nd.

Why not visit a Holocaust memorial, a cemetery or synagogue, or you might light a candle, recite a prayer or a poem, or read a few pages from an inspirational book, such as a memoir.

Let us not forget all those who died and suffered.

The photograph above was taken by me.

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© Copyright 2007 - All Rights Reserved - No permission is given or allowed to reuse my photography, book reviews, writings, or my poetry in any form/format without my expresss written consent/permission.

The Luncheon of the Boating Party, by Susan Vreeland

The Luncheon of the Boating Party

Vreeland’s exquisite and beautiful prose make this novel of historical fiction one to read. She details the events leading up to the finished painting, how Renoir chose his models, his relationship with each one, how they connected with each other individually within the painting, and how they interacted with Renoir and the other models, externally, separate from the painting. We find out that Renoir painted on Sundays, in 1880, after actually having lunch with the models on the terrace of the actual restaurant in the painting, with all the dishes, silverware, glasses, etc., left on the table.

We feel his frustrations, his joy, his anxiety over each minute detail, each brush stroke. We imagine his presence, with his models in front, some more self-absorbed than others, some humble and understanding individuals. Some models don’t show up, and he has to rely on his canvas, during the week, to fill in faces, attire, etc. Renoir met his future wife while painting was in progress. We glimpse bits of life, within the realm of the painting, both figuratively and visually, as Renoir endeavors to paint “la vie moderne”, the modern life.

Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s painting, The Luncheon of the Boating Party, took months for him to finish. It was at a time when he was struggling to make ends meet, and a time when he was trying to establish himself as part of the Impressionist movement. This painting was (in his mind) the one major work that would establish him in that genre.

If you want an understanding of the time period, the Impressionist movement, life in Paris, and how Renoir managed brush stroke by brush stroke to finish this masterpiece, then this is the novel for you, as much of it is based on historical fact. Vreeland’s prose is fluid, beautiful and is a masterpiece, in itself. Word-paintings and images abound. I could go into detail, make in-depth statements, but that would take the joy out of you reading the novel, so I leave you with the above prose.

I have actually seen the original painting, The Luncheon of the Boating Party in the Phillips Collection, in Washington, DC. The Phillips family has had it in their possession since 1923.

The photograph above was taken by me, when I saw the incredible painting in Washington DC, last autumn. I was enthralled, mesmerized, it was quite emotional. It is enormous in size, and in its illumination, and is mounted on a wall of its own, overpowering the room. The minute you walk into the room, it beckons you towards it. You stare in awe, not believing you are physically viewing this beautiful masterpiece. It is a testament to the power of the artist and his artistic skills.

If you are ever in Washington DC, it is a must see.

© Copyright - All Rights Reserved - No permission is given or allowed to reuse my photography, book reviews, writings, or my poetry in any form/format without my expresss written consent/permission.

Bear With Me

My site is undegoing some changes due to hosting issues. Please bear with me, as it will take a few days to rectify things. Most of my sidebar links are not working, and there are a few other problems. They will be resolved as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, have a great week!

The Best in 2008!

From my house to yours: Happy New Year to all of you, and best wishes for a fantastic 2008, filled with love, joy, wonderful memories, prosperity and peace

Anniverary Wishes

Happy anniversary dear mommy and daddy, together in another realm.

Married December 6, 1941, the day before the attack on Pearl Harbor…I can’t even imagine the glow of being newlyweds, married for one day, and having this tragedy occur.

You both weathered so much throughout your married lives together. But, more importantly, you gave Howard and I a sense of Self, your strength, your love and devotion (not only to each other, but to the two of us), and you both enriched our lives in so many ways. Thank you isn’t adequate enough…but…thank you.

A happy anniversary toast to you both. Cheers!

May love and peace surround you both on this anniversary day…your presence is constantly felt.