Every Artist Deserves A Look Back (A “Best Of” Remix)
This has been a fantastic weekend. I am the featured artist at the dVerse poets pub. Many of the poets that participate and share their poems have given me a lot of positive response. And I certainly do appreciate it. It is motivating and inspirational. Late last night, it came to me that I should share some of my most popular posts. I have only been blogging for 13 months, and have explored a host of themes, concepts and ideas. Below you will find links to the 5 most popular posts so far. They were determined by the number of comments and likes by my readers. I have included thumbnails of each image in the posts. They are in the order of their popularity.
Enjoy
To the right side of my design (a force of nature remix)
Weekly photo challenge - between
The silence series: urban meditation
The path to everlasting consciousness and love (a yellow brick road remix)
We are the everlasting consciousness (a centered moment remix)
Bridges
burning the bridges…
leaving the memories behind you
or following the yellow brick road
across that new bridge
the bridge of hope and beauty
and colors in transition….
Bridge
I would like to thank Sheila for inviting me to be the featured artist for the poets at dversepoets. I thought I may write a short poem as well, reflecting my thoughts for the challenge.
Peace
A Tribute To The Family (A Full Of Grace And Love Remix)
The love of family is vibrant and colorful … enriching the very essence of our union with life….
A family reunion celebrating my Aunt Mary's 81st birthday
The centerpiece of love is the family….
I have been thinking lately about the legacy of my family. Both on my mother’s side and my father’s. The lost of a child (my daughter) can bring these thoughts and memories to bear. This evening I found myself asking, how can I celebrate the love of family?
– Our Family.
How can I bring together the many cousins, children and grandchildren that are all a part of the love we have as one large family? We are the Thorne Family. My Grandmother Aline Pearl Thorne gave birth to my mother, her three sisters and her brother. Now over several generations there are children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
My aunt Wilhelmina was a painter and my “uncle Bubba” as well. They both were inspirational in my pursuit to be an artist. In honor of them as well as the family as a whole, I am beginning a new series that will celebrate the many facets of our family; a celebratory life, a life full of giving and receiving in the bond of love. It is my hope that members of my family will collect some of the work created for this series and pass them down throughout the generations creating a legacy of remembrance.
Together we can do all things….
Peace and Love to Family and Friends alike.
A Love That Resonates Forever – A Tribute To My Daughter
Throughout the years my daughter Lady and my sister Patricia, have been at the very core of my being. The very essence of my Joy….
Patricia and Lady
I spent February 25th in quiet reflection; thinking of my lovely daughter “Lady” and remembering the things we shared. A few days earlier, I had sent a text to my sister Patricia, telling her I how much I loved her. Reminding her of my appreciation for all that she had done for my daughter over the years. On February 25th 2012, my daughter would have been 34 years old. Young and vibrant. Intelligent and strong. Beautiful and adventurous. A mother of four. A friend to many. A gift from God to me. As I approach March 7th, the day of her passing from this physical realm, I will continue to lift her up in my heart. Embrace her dreams as my own. And thank God for the blessing she is to me.
Lady taking photographs at family reunion 2006
Dionanna Mcfadden my “Lady Pooh”
A Different Kind Of Day (A Turning The Page On Tomorrow Remix)
Sometimes in the waking the mornings with you….
The memories you leave behind when we wake
a morning glow
thoughts of you
– linger
with soft anticipation
a morning light
– embracing
dreams of you
and
unrelenting rays of sunshine
turning the page
– on Love
in a different kind of day….
A Night Of A Different Kind (A Turning The Page On Yesterday Remix)
A beautiful night of memories … always seem different in kind….
You bring back memories
at night…
we share a place
away from everyone
– different
at night
we embrace something
in each other
– beautiful
at night
the moon rises
in our hearts
– seeking
Everlasting Light with
Love
– in a different kind of night….
Moments In Time (A Yesterday Video Remix)
Sometimes moments in time are like the possession of precious jewels only remembered briefly…..
My latest video entitled “Moments In Time (A Yesterday Video Remix)” starts off with clips from previous videos and a multimedia performance before evolving into my most recent ventures of 2012; finding new forms in the mountains of Western North Carolina. My early video work began back in 1988. Of course there were no digital cameras, and we had to use those large, bulky, VHS Cameras. At the time I was fortunate to have some rather unique video editing software, and hardware courtesy of my Amiga 1000 digital suite and the third-party supplier of a video mixer called the Genlock. Now with a HD digital camera, there is much higher resolution, creating a more definitive, sharper image. I recently purchased the Avid Studio Pro video software, and hope that the quality, and versatility will yield several levels of high performance (within a modest price range).
One of the major traits in the processing of my previous video work, has been my ability to layer video sources. So I am looking forward to using this new capability (the latest digital hardware and software) to continue this process. In the end I hope to create thought-provoking video imagery that is abstract, ambient. and minimalistic.
So I hope you enjoy what I think may be a transitional video on the path to new ideas, and processes.
Moments In Time (A Yesterday Video Remix)….
The Silence Series: Chakra Colors For Meditation – ANAHATA (Green)
At the core of All That Is … is the Heart….
I think this is my favorite chakra. It seems to resonate with me in a deep and profound way. While meditating I reach out towards the heart within; rejoicing in its beating pulse, embracing the connection to my life’s blood, and falling in love with the healing energy. This is ANAHATA, the Heart chakra. The principles guiding this chakra are Love, Faith, Duty, Awakening and Devotion. The energy source of this chakra provides healing and functionality for the respiratory, circulatory, and immune systems. It’s related sense: Touch.
With gentle ease and focus bring your attention to the 4th chakra which can be found in the heart region. Breathe in the rich sustaining color of deep green. This is the source of unconditional love (in giving and receiving) and the home of profound openness. When open, you feel the power of love and the willingness to go forth without fear or resentment. There is a great sense of peace and harmony with yourself, life, and All That Is….
It is a good practice to try to maintain your focus on each chakra for about 5 to 10 minutes.
The sound of the 4th chakra is … YAM.
Breathe in the rich color of deep green and repeat the mantra … YAM … YAM … YAM …
The 4th chakra ANAHATA
I want to give a special thanks to Deepak Chopra, whose teachings are a major source of my inspiration and information for this series.
Namaste….
Music For Backgrounds: Ajad – Reiki Vol. 2 (Reiki Music 2: Music for Love)
The wonder of healing and finding the true Self … resting in peace with All That Is…
Today, I awoke to some very inspiring posts. They brought to my attention the essence of our lives spent in gratitude for All That Is and our remarkable ability to be creative, while discerning our immense capacity to love and be loved…
This morning I wrote a short text to my sister, telling her I loved her dearly. February, is a difficult month for us. Both my Mother’s and daughter’s birthdays are this month. Both, including my father, sadly have passed away. It is just her and I now.
I needed to reach out to my sister, share the love, tell her that she was in my thoughts and I hold her dear….
I am in the middle of my Chakra Colors for Meditation series. A collection of mindful images that I hope promotes a desire to journey within—to find a place of healing, peace, and love. I thought an interlude that included some soothing Reiki music would be just the thing to enhanced your contemplative experience of the day
Remember to breathe softly, focus your attention and stay centered.
Ajad – Reiki Vol 2 (Reiki Music 2: Music for Love) 59:53
Here is the link to The Silence Series: Chakras Colors for Meditation – 1st chakra Muladhara (Red)
The Silence Series: Chakra Colors For Meditation – Manipura (Yellow)
Moving through the moments in life we are empowered by … All That Is….
It is important to maintain your attention on your breath as you move into the energy surrounding the third chakra. Bring your focus to the area above the naval and envisioned the rich hue of yellow. This is the solar plexus chakra known as Manipura, the place of the shining jewel. This area governs how you digest your life, and focuses on empowering your life, and fostering confidence in meeting ones aspirations and intentions. When blocked one has a feeling of frustration, anger and digestive unease. The third chakra controls the liver, stomach, gall bladder, spleen and relates to the sense of light.
Bring your attention to the color yellow and let go of all of your frustrations and fears. Feel the energy propel you, transforming negative and unwanted emotions into positive and life affirming possibilities.
Breathe in the color yellow and repeat the mantra … Ram … Ram … Ram….
Namaste….
Breathe in the color yellow
The Silence Series: Chakra Colors For Meditation – Svadhisthana (Orange)
As we look within the centered Self, we find … All That Is….
The second chakra is closely associated with the Self or Soul. It is an energy chakra that promotes the reproductive system and assimilation. This chakra’s location is centered in the pelvic region. It governs our sexuality, sensations, appetite and our family associations. Svadhisthana means the Self’s dwelling place. This is a powerful energy center that promotes our sexual expression and creative impulses. It is associated with the sense of taste.
As you continue your practice, move your attention from the first chakra into the second. Visualize the color orange and quietly repeat the mantra Vam … Vam … Vam.
Namaste….
Breathe in the color orange
Peace, Love, and Light to All….
The Silence Series: Chakra Colors For Meditation – Muladhara (Red)
Our Mind, Body and Spirit is of one Source … All That Is….
Over the next week, I will be working on a series that will be revolving around the beautiful spiritual essence of the various chakras. And how through a meditation practice we can access their vital energy for harmony and healing. I am going to post each chakra individually, as I build towards a concluding series of all seven chakras. As I progress I will be making different visual versions of each chakra. In the end, I will choose seven that I believe have the greatest continuity as a whole for a meditation practice.
Each chakra represents a core dimension of human life.
First up is the Muladhara (Sanskirt) chakra. It’s color is Red and its sound is Lam. This chakra is associated with basic survival skills. It affects the skeleton, lymph, and elimination elements of the body. The sensory component associated with it is the sense of smell. It is in this chakra center that we are released from uncertainity.
When beginning a meditation practice, it is good to be in a relaxed position. Make sure you are comfortable and have your eyes closed. Quiet your breathing by focusing your attention on your in-breath and out-breath. Then bring your awareness to the first chakra at the base of the spine. Bring your attention to this energy center and visualize the color of deep red and begin to repeat the mantra Lam … Lam … Lam.
Namaste
The Path To Everlasting Consciousness And Love (A Yellow Brick Road Remix)
The obstacles we find on the path to Everlasting Consciousness….
The road we travel is often paved with the things that stand in our way.
as I started my journey….
i looked
to the memories behind me
– only once
as i walked along the path
i remembered
the things I’ve forgotten
– only yesterday
as you join me
i embrace
what we share together
– only forever
on the path to Everlasting Love….
We Are The Everlasting Consciousness (A Centered Moment Remix)
In a centered moment. in a vision of clarity, I saw the “I” am as All That Is….
Towards the moment of clarity
a future moment of being
is here
an everlasting presence
to seek
and embrace
– the soul is free
to wander
– the Spirit Is Always….
When We Look Skyward An Everlasting Consciousness (A Sky And Earth Remix)
Sometimes I feel as if the universe is not beyond my reach….
A hidden name found in earth and sky
art as improvisation
and
a hidden name –
inside
the universe within….
Feburary 7th 2012 Featured Artist of the Day at ImageKind.com
Dear friends, family, fellow artists and bloggers….
I recently began to showcase my digital art, which is for sell, on the online store ImageKind.com. I was quite surprised and very pleased to find this email in my mailbox telling me of my selection as the “Featured Artist of the Day.” I would like to thank all those who over the past year have inspired and supported me. Below is a copy of the letter I received.
You can access my store at the links provided on my blog or website, or just click the link below.
http://www.newdigitalscapes.imagekind.com
“Congratulations! You have been selected as the Featured Artist of the day at Imagekind.com!
Imagekind is the fastest growing online art site and it is our privilege to showcase your work as being outstanding amidst a field of so many other great artists and photographers.
Did you know Imagekind is the only art and photo site where artists can set their own prices?
Our success is entirely about you, our creative community. Please tell your colleagues, friends and family about the #1 place on the web to discover and purchase original art.
Have a great day and we wish you continued success! ”
Walter W. Smith
First You Make A Roux (A Window Shopping Remix 03)
The city series….
First you make a roux
Yes we are still cruising down Magazine Street—just seeing things from a different perspective….
Vintage Clothing On Magazine Street (A Window Shopping Remix 02)
The city series….
Nothing quite compares to finding a unique place to shop and browse.
Stopping to check out what's inside
We stood at the entrance as a glimpse of what was inside called us to enter….
Magazine Street – New Orleans (A Window Shopping Remix 01)
The city series….
New Orleans is famous for two distinct areas; the nightlife and party vibe of the French Quarter with its Bourbon Street, and the rather cool, hip, and very left of center (in a moderate way) Magazine Street. M St. runs parallel to its more famous counterpart, Charles Street. But unlike C St., with its two Universities (Tulane and Loyola), trolley cars, beautiful homes and churches, Magazine Street has a rather unique quality about it. Interspersed with its numerous art galleries are small vintage clothing and antique shops, various ethnic restaurants and small corner parks. I really enjoyed this part of New Orleans and would consider living in this neighborhood than any other. If you visit New Orleans, you will find that this is a great place to hang out and enjoy the day.
Window shopping on Magazine Street
Hope you enjoy this three-part series, a short stroll down Magazine Street….
January 21. 2012. 05:59 PM (A Heavenly Slideshow Remix)
2011 and now 2012 promises to bring to the forefront—images and ideas for the contemplative and visionary mind.
Here is just a sample of recent work.
Music by Tomasz Bednarczyk
To The Right Side Of My Design (A Force Of Nature Remix)
A beautiful perspective just to the left of my mind….
To the right side of my design
In the evening I sometimes wonder if that walk today has yielded a new perspective.
Something I can hold onto….
Perhaps the thought that will change my life … tomorrow.
Contemplating The Beauty Of Nature And Design
An Afternoon with the beauty of nature brings the life of design to the mind….
Self portrait with nature and design
Have a great week ahead. Get out and enjoy some nature. Design something beautiful….
Asheville And Art For Cities (A Post Canvas And Paint Video Remix)
Asheville the Paris of the South….
I have had the pleasure and opportunity to travel to some rather unique cities such Paris France, Amsterdam in the Netherlands, and here in America, cities like Washington DC, NYC, and Los Angeles. In these major cities there are never a shortage of great art, fine dining, and exciting culture. The streets are always alive throughout the day and into the night.
But I have also come to love the small to medium-sized cities such as Greenville SC, Burlington VT, and my favorite Asheville, NC. Asheville is very beautiful. Bohemian and unique. It is a gay-friendly city and a haven for those who seek a more spiritual lifestyle. It is nestled in a valley surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. It host for the visitor or long-time resident, diverse experiences to discover the world of art, theatre, music, and outdoor adventure. I simply fell in love with the city many years ago.
Here is my tribute to a great city….
Winter Fog On the Blue Ridge Parkway
On a cool, brisk Sunday afternoon the fog rose along the ridges of the Blue Ridge Mountains….
In 2012 I hope to explore in-depth various elements of video, video art, and video abstraction. There is a lot to process in the machinations of creativity, productivity and presentation. And it will certainly take a moment or two to master linking all the various social media outlets to accommodate the various video formats.
Some of the elements I will be working with are natural atmospheric landscapes, seascapes, and cityscapes. “Winter Fog On the Blue Ridge Parkway” was filmed while ascending from Asheville, NC to the higher elevations along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The mountains here are quite beautiful, even when shrouded in mist. Hope you enjoy the piece.
n e w d i g i t a l s c a p e s 