Here in Charlotte...

...the main library branch located Uptown (which is really downtown) has a walkway lined with columns. Attached to these columns are quotes like the ones seen in these pictures. Everytime I go to that libary, I read the quotes. I've read them maybe a dozen times. I love the all-encompassing brevity of quotes. One day, I hope to be quoted by a bunch of people, hopefully for sensible reasons or maybe even to win an argument if it has to get hostile.

The first quote really captures my passion for reading. I've been reading since I was three, and although I can't recall exactly when symbols turned into letters into words into sentences into thoughts, I've always wanted something to read nearby. There are two books that stand out as being the ultimate paradigm shifters, Black Like Me and Illusions: The Adventures of a Reluctant Messiah. I read them both when I was 13 and I haven't been the same since. The last two quotes represent the conflict within my artistic self. I'm a writer originally and a photographer recently. Somehow, I have not been able to reconcile the two. I always do one while feeling like I'm neglecting the other. This blog was an attempt to merge the two passions, but that process is taking a little longer than originally expected. Anyway, enjoy the quotes and if you're ever in Charlotte, visit the Uptown library (which is really downtown. Peace.

So far in my short endeavor...

...as a photographer, my only model has been my wife. She's been a real sport when it comes to helping me grow as an artist. She's even leant her services as a tripod since I have yet to purchase one of my own. Here are a few of my favorite shots of my wife. The first two are shot I just took of her without her actually posing. The last one, of course, is a posed shot.

I sincerely apologize...

...for the neglect that I have inflicted upon my blog and the readers of my blog. I don't want to blame anyone or anything, but I will say that I function as an artist when there is stimuli to help aid the creative process. This past winter was particularly cold and it seemed like Charlotte just shut down. I'd go out every once and a while looking for a shot only to find nothing. I eventually fell into lethargy and put my camera away.

Now spring is rolling in and the city is starting to thaw. I took my camera out today to get reaquainted. I found some good shots in my usual places and some in a few new places. This was my shot of the day. In Uptown Charlotte, there a lot of flower beds with tulips lining the curb. This one, unfortunately, had been picked and discarded in on the sidewalk. I had to use my viewscreen to get the shot as I was not too keen on getting down on a sidewalk that thousands of feet have trampled. I hope this shot is nice enough to be rekindling for you. Again, I apologize.