Greetings!
Welcome to Whirlwind, a Substack about what it takes to make great art
I wanted to start this Substack in order to share how I think about art, how it relates to our existence here on Earth, and why I think human creativity will ultimately help solve many of the problems we face today.
A little about me.
I’ve had many careers in my life involving aviation, music, publishing, and photography. I’ve been labeled ADD (attention deficit disorder). I consider this a plus, although I vehemently take issue with the disorder part. These interests have led me down many varied and fascinating roads in my life. But now, in my older years, I’m busier than ever as an artist, and that’s just fine. In fact, I love it.
I live in Los Angeles with my wife, Pamela Foard, who is a writer, formerly a violinist. I have four sons: two from my first marriage, and two with Pam, and four grandchildren. I played bassoon in the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra for twenty-eight years, and before that, the Louisville and the Buffalo Symphonies. I learned to fly, got my pilot’s license, and began a newsletter for a particular kind of antique airplane to help people maintain and restore them. I also managed a small airport for a while. I began to photograph as a child, and sold my first photograph in 1968, after studying with Ansel Adams. Also, many notable cats and one golden retriever have come through my life; respect must be paid.
My photography has evolved to the point of abstraction, something that truly excites me. I love combining photographs using digital tools to see what I can mold them into. I still do traditional photography, but I’m mostly working in this new mode of expression, as it’s simply more - more creativity, more possibility, more excitement. Here is an example:
Of course, I have a website studio, where I sell my artwork to the public, and another one where I show my work to people in “the biz”, like collectors, curators and museum directors.
So that gives you a bit of an introduction to me and my passion. I hope to inspire you, my readers, to stretch yourselves in ways that help you feel empowered and joyful.
I hope you enjoy my Substack Whirlwind!
Great opening, congratulations!