Playing it by Ear

 

( A drawing that was in progress at the time of this photo.)

Well here we are in October. I had planned to make a post before September ended, but that didn't happen. I'm trying to come up with a plan as to what I want to do. I have a list which includes everything from creating an income to making repairs and getting organized which has been an ongoing project.

I can't stop and evaluate everything before I throw it out. There are some things that I want to hold on to for research; sentimental value, but there's other stuff that needs to go and can go without hesitation. How mmany art books do I need? How many fashion magazines? How many home decor books, etc.?  It sounds easy enough, but it really isn't. I look at all of the art supplies and I have to ask myself will I use an item? When will I use the item? There is no real time line. I like creating art when the mood hits. Somethings, like greeting cards I may start, but until I know exactly who the card will go to I can't finish it. Most of my cards are made for the individual.

I have hundreds of pencils of different brands and varieties. Many bottles and tubes of paints. Crayons, pastels, charcoal and paper, lots and lots of paper.

Books on photography, art, films, writing, screenplays, stageplays. Everything that I could possibly need.

I was moving some furniture last week and I injured my back. I knew that would probably happen, but I had to do it. I probably shouldn't have moved as many large pieces in one day as I did. I thought I was doing it correctly, but when you get older and stretch those muscles, you pay the price. I'm blaming it on the furniture, but it could have been the files in which I had to bend over to move magazines. I'll try to take it easy this week and see how long it takes to get back in shape. 

I am hoping to start exercising again on a regular basis. This is something I have to do. I need to get back on a healthier diet. I do my best, but from time to time I will splurge on a few things. I have to start slow and stay consistent. If I had more things to keep me busy things might be different. When I had somewhere to go I was more active then I am now. It does bother me, but I have to take it easy and think things through.

I was trying to get into that frame of mind of getting some work, but now I have to think about being in a place for more than an hour and the germs that could be floating around. The only way to really be safe is if I figure out a way to work from home.

I was thinking of setting up my photography studio. I have been trying to write, but I'd have to pick up the pace to generate any money from that. I could try to sell my art on Etsy or Ebay. The opportunities are there, I just have to figure out what is best for me. Just have to take things one day at a time. This is not a place I ever thought I would be in at this stage of my life, but neither was anything else I've experienced in the last 20 plus years. So, what's new? We learn and we move on. Navigating life is an adventure sometimes of epic proportions.

I want to start getting the blog format together as I am going to combine all four blogs and that way you can just visit one location, but they will all have the same content. It makes it easier on me. The poetry, the art, the movies and the window into my everyday will all be one.

(Local musician I photographed last year)

I wrote this poem earlier in the year.

Co Vid

by Dlonzo (c) 2020

There is an unfamilarity in the air

along with the smell of hand sanitizer,

bleach and other disenfectants

It doesn't seem fair

To shelter in place

to cover the face

to stay safe

Life can seem unfair

during a time of a crisis

some get help, some don't

some too much, others not enough

Businesses closing doors, shutting down

Out of work, unemployment, furlough

Food lines, school closures

This is not normal

What is normal?

Was there ever normal

a term created 

to feel comfort?

Language, another beast to battle.

Stay inside, if you go outside

wear a mask, cover your face.

Shelter in place,

stay safe.

(Next up: What's in your bubble?)

Thanks for stopping by; Keep an open mind. Do return to see where the journey leads.

www.dlonzo-OpenYourMind.blogspot.com

www.artbyDlonzo.blogspot.com

www.filmlover4pg@blogspot.com

www.psychedmaster.org

Computer generated art.

(The Angel, top and the Diva below.)

The Art behind the photograph (Models) Part 2

The first time I was offered a modeling job was by accident. The model I am featuring is how it all began for us both.
My aunt was not crazy about the modeling industry. She had read the stories behind Brooke Shields and didn’t want her daughters to be a part of it. So once they turned 18 they were allowed to go on auditions. I do know there were many preparations before hand.
Modeling is not an easy industry to get into and if you’re planning on making it a career you have to meet the requirements.

(This has always been one of my favorite photographs when it comes to fashion. It's interesting how clothes really do help a photograph. When the model feels comfortable and confident, things just come together.)

I decided I was going to try something different and that was by making sure all of the models were the same height, on the runway no one could tell the difference.
When I started Dlonzo Modeling Troupe most of the girls were about 5’ 4”, they had the look and they had the walk. I had become tired of going to the fashion shows and seeing the same faces over and over.
I also didn’t like the way the agencies got a percentage even when you got a job on your won. I decided at that point that I would get in on the business and learn as much as I could.

I was already taking photographs and putting together portfolios. The next step was to find jobs for the models.

I then created Dlonzo Models and covered the spectrum from petite to regular size models. For every four female models I have one male. The models all had unique looks and I showed them how to use this as a stepping stone to whatever they wanted to do.
Some of my models have since told me they were no longer shy in front of people.

I learned to deal with people, write up contracts and model releases. I also taught my models how to manage themselves so that they could make more money. Unless I had to negotiate something their money was their own.

I enjoyed meeting people and the perks that came along with modeling.

Thanks for stopping by; and keep an open mind.

Check out some of my art at Bluecanvas.com/Oznol. Some of these are for sale. Remember Artist Trading Cards (ATC) are available simply by asking. Send an email with ATC in the subject and I can email one to you.

http://www.dlonzo-OpenYourMind.blogspot.com

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While you’re here, why not become a follower (fan).
Taking it one day at a time and keeping the faith.

Check back and see where this journey leads. Check out the links below to my other blogs and videos.

Coming up: Simone, Wilbert, Ron C, Ronald, Merlin, Dino, Carolyn

Donna Summer the Artist

The passing of Donna Summer came as a big surprise.

 Although she hadn't been in the light for quite sometime she was still an integral part of my life and I always listen to her music.

 It's fun, energetic and inspiring.
 Donna Summer's music was a big part of the soundtrack of my life.

This is part of a drawing I did many years ago of the Legendary singer.

Aside from being one of my all time favorite singers, Donna Summer was a great artist.

 Her lithographs went for substantial amounts of money. Everything will be up in value now. Here are some of her lithographs.

Thanks for stopping by; keep an open mind. Rest in peace, Donna Summer.