Is the final image representing a real person?

For portrait retouching, I believe you should represent the client as they would look at their best. So, I only retouch temporary issues such as blemishes, stray hairs, etc. In this case, I only use Liquify for objects such as hair and clothes.

Ethically, transforming a person into something other than what they look like can cause misrepresentation and body image issues among viewers. In fact, some of the most epic Photoshop fails comes from the misuse of Liquify.

Photoshop Fails

Case in point, here is the infamous ad by a major brand. On the left is the overly retouched version of the model on the right:

Thigh gaps are caused by genetics and bone structure but overzealous retouchers have been behind the perpetuation of the unrealistic expectation that having a thigh gap is a sign of health and femininity.

Want to see more? Here is a blog post from shefinds.com about the above fail and more!

Is the image the basis for creative manipulation?

As artists and illustrators, we often start with an image of a real person then manipulate it to further our communication. This is where I find it perfectly okay to play with Liquify and create a whole new person. I liken this to painters who interpret their models in their paintings. 

For example, Dora Maar, who was an artist in her own right, modeled for Picasso for this painting:

The Weeping Woman, 1937 by Pablo Picasso

Girl with a Robot Earring

This brings me to my image created as an example for my Photoshop class. It's named after the Dutch master Vermeer's famous painting Girl with a Pearl Earring. Although it's not the same pose, lighting, etc. that name is the first that jumped out to me so I went with it (as an over-thinker, this was harder for me to do than it sounds!).

Girl with a Robot Earring, 2021.

Technical Information

• The original image was shot on an iPad using GVM 800-D RGB LED lights:

• Global edits were done in Adobe Camera Raw.
• Once in Photoshop, I used Frequency Separation for retouching, the Liquify Filter to distort my features, the Paint Daubs Filter for the skin, and the Watercolor Filter for the rest.

Photoshop Time Lapse

Check out the time-lapse video below to see the transformation before your very eyes! 

Love this image and need it in your life? Check out my shop where you can buy this image as a Fine Art Print, Canvas Wrap, Metal Print, and more! Note: When you go to the artwork page, click on "Visit Shop" to see ALL of the available print options!

Photo by Mahin Alibabae

Our joint Artist Statement:

"This exhibition aims to showcase the charm and splendor that we see ​in the place we call "home​." So often,​ we feel ​our civic pride is disparaged by way of "Top 10 Worst Cities" lists and the everyday challenges of living in an economically depressed area.  We choose to instead focus our attention to the landscapes, architecture and interplay of textures and light that make our lives here a visual treat.  Come see Fresno through our eyes!"

Positively Fresno Show Photo by Emily Redondo Photo by Mahin Alibabaei

Positively Fresno Show Photo by Emily Redondo
Positively Fresno Show Photo by Emily Redondo Positively Fresno Show Photo by Emily Redondo Positively Fresno Show Photo by Emily Redondo

Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Positively Fresno Show Photo by Emily Redondo Positively Fresno Show Photo by Emily Redondo Positively Fresno Show Photo by Emily Redondo Positively Fresno Show Photo by Emily Redondo Positively Fresno Show Photo by Emily Redondo

Thank you all for the wonderful feedback and for attending our receptions!

Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei

Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei Photo by Mahin Alibabaei

Congratulations to the winners of the raffle!  Four 4x6 prints of the "Tower Theater Sunset" were raffled off on the last day of our show, below are the prints and a video of the raffle drawing:

Positively Fresno Show Photo by Emily Redondo Click to watch the Raffle Drawing!

Thank you to our family and friends for your continued love and support.  

A special Thank You to our patrons who helped make this our most successful exhibition to date!

YOU make it possible for us to continue to create new art! Until next time, xoxo

Photo by Mahin Alibabaei

More artists whose work was showcased as well:

Thank you so much to everyone who came out and checked out the show!

If you missed this exhibition, the work will be at Spectrum Art Gallery December 3rd-27th!  Message me for more details or sign up for my email list!

For example, this piece is a silver gelatin print printed with a cyanotype over top:

Of course, none of my shows are possible without the help of my handsome husband/assistant:

My dear friend Jessica Hanna also displayed her beautiful ceramic creations alongside my photographs.  She combines found objects from nature with glazed and raw ceramic pieces that convey the order, chaos and life giving properties of the ocean.

Thank you to friends, family and collectors who came by! 

And of course the Jesse Merrell and Travis Rockett who hosted this exhibition at their space in the beautiful M Street Art Complex in Fresno, Ca.

This coming ArtHop (November 5th) I'll be sharing photographs from my Fresno Series at the Pacific Southwest Building in Fulton Mall, hope to see you there!

Elvis comes out of hiding!Photo by Mike Schwabenland Photo by Mike Schwabenland

Overview of the exhibitionLove that brick wall!

Artists and art lovers at the ReceptionPhoto by Marc Blake Performing artists at the receptionPhoto by Marc Blake

Click here to watch video!

To see more of the project click here!

Thank you to all who attended the reception!  Until next time-xoxo, Emily

Coastal Foothills leading to the Pacific Ocean Ano Nuevo State Park

Growing up, my family went to Pismo Beach every summer:

Pismo Beach Sunset

​ Splash Cafe in Pismo Beach Pismo Beach at Dusk

Me and my husband's first date was a spontaneous midnight trip to Santa Cruz so it holds special memories!  Here we are in front of the last remaining arch of the "bridge" on Natural Bridges State Beach (there used to be an arch on each side of the remaining arch, visitors were once allowed to walk and even drive on the bridge until it collapsed in 1980!):

From October to February, Monarch Butterflies migrate to the eucalyptus grove by this beach:  

Natural Bridges State Park Walkway Monarchs, Natural Bridges State Beach

Natural Bridges State Park Lagoon

During this time the tide is lower so you can walk through the natural bridge and see the different creatures that call this place home:

Starfish, Natural Bridges State Beach Anemone, Natural Bridges State Beach

A sunset shot of the bridge:

Natural Bridges State Park

See you on the beach!  XOXO, emily

The creativity and "question authority" attitude inherent in Classic Hip Hop culture drew me in as a pre-teen; gravity defying dance moves, colorful murals and poetry set to a beat are thrilling to watch and participate in!  KRS One is as classic as you can get so I knew I had to be there!

Hip Hop fact! Didya know that the dance style "Popping" was created by Fresno's own Boogaloo Sam in the 1970's? 

WARNING EXPLICIT LANGUAGE!  The video below starts off with a classic song, goes into some of KRS One's beliefs then ends with some freestyling! 

I had a blast groovin' to da beat with you KRS One!  XOXO, Emily

Keep up to date with them on their Facebook page!  XOXO, Emily

Pacific Southwest Building

On the 2nd floor is the George Garcia's popular salon "The Loft" and there are plans to open a restaurant on this floor as well:

The current owner has opened up lofts for lease (only a few left!).  We got to tour one of the inhabited lofts on the 11th floor:

Next we ascended to the 14th floor where there are plans to open a restaurant as well.  We got to walk the balcony (which goes along the entire building) and catch views of across Fresno:

Up another flight of stairs we found ourselves in the peak of the building where there are plans for a lounge:

I can't wait for these businesses to open so I can enjoy the view any night!  

Stay tuned for the next blog post featuring Circus Etcetera!

Below is an overview of the show and photos from the opening reception.  Thank you so much to those who attended!

XOXO,

Emily

Manhattan Bridge Views from the Manhattan Bridge

After walking back to Manhattan we headed to the Sky Line, an old, above-ground railway that has been turned into a walking path:

Silliness on the Highline

The Highline

Then over to Soho Photo Gallery for the opening reception of their 10th Annual Alternative Processes Competition.  I was pleased to see that my piece Mumaaso Ekisimbe #2 received an Honorable Mention, but even more pleased to see my old pals Erica and Dilia and meet new friends as well:

After the reception we headed to the beautiful Grand Central Station where I got this panorama (almost 20 photos stitched together!)

Grand Central Station

That wraps up our stay in NYC, if you'd like to see even more photos click on any photo above!  Thanks for following, xoxo Emily

The view from the ferry heading to Liberty Island

Lady Liberty

Ellis Island Immigration Museum The Great Hall

After dinner, we went to the World Trade Center Memorial Pools  :

WTC North Pool

Then went over to Brooklyn Bridge Park for this fantastic view:           Manhattan skyline from Brooklyn Bridge Park

My husband/assistant and I on the Brooklyn Promenade :)

We had a great time and thanks for checking out my photo blog-feel free to leave a comment!  

To see more photos of New York City click on any photo above!  xoxo, Emily

Chinatown

Chinatown Chinatown

Next we headed to Soho to check out galleries (no photos allowed!) and ran into Washington Square Park where couples, friends and families were lounging about, enjoying their Sunday afternoon:

Soho wall of love

Washington Square Arch

We went out for dinner and drinks then returned to this beautiful arch for sunset photos before heading out towards Rockefeller Center.  The original plan was to go to the observation deck in the Rockefeller building (named 'Top of the Rock') for shots of the skyline but was sad to find out tripods are not allowed (anywhere on their property, street level included) without a permit!  We still found some great shots at street level though:

Washington Square Arch at Dusk Empire State Building through the Washington Square Arch

Rockefeller Center

Swarovski Chandelier in the Rockefeller Lobby Radio City Music Hall

Thanks for checking out my photo blog and to see all of the NYC photos click on any photo above to go to the gallery!

Tomorrow's post will be on visiting Lady Liberty, the World Trade Center site and the view from Brooklyn!

xoxo, Emily

Our first day in New York City was cold and rainy, but it didn't stop us!  We had originally planned to go to Liberty Island our first day but opted to change our itinerary to an indoor venues: the Metropolitan Museum of Art and The City of New York Museum!  We spent hours wandering these beautiful museums and still only saw a handful of the available exhibitions.  We saw Assyrian reliefs, Greek and Roman art, Asian art, New York Activism, Photography and the Musical Instrument Collections.  I could see how one could spend days wandering!

Metropolitan Museum of Art Early Greek Kuros at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Buddhist Tapestry at the Met

Next we headed to Central Park for sunset views at Jackie Onassis Reservoir and to visit Strawberry Fields where there is a mosaic in tribute to John Lennon:

Twilight at Jackie Onassis Reservoir in Central Park

Imagine Mosaic in Central Park

We ended the night visiting Times Square and having dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe:

Times Square

Hard Rock Cafe

You can click on any image to see the full New York City Album! Check back soon for day two of our adventure!

From the train station

Old Sacramento Saloon Old Staircase

We enjoyed a stroll by the Sacramento River:

Tower Bridge The Ziggurat I Street Bridge

Visited The Crocker Art Museum where we were greeted by Folklorico dancers:

  Crocker Art Museum Crocker Art Museum

And strolled downtown and around by the capitol:

Downtown graffiti Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament State Capitol

Click on any photo to see more of Sacramento!

My fave part was the sunset of course, well and getting called on stage to dance (you'll have to pay off family members to see those photos haha!

That concludes my posts on Hawaii.  To see more photos click on any of the photos above to see the full album, Aloha!

LJ-Standard-428

We hiked around an awesome arboretum (beware of the mosquitos!) and took our time at each stop

we didn't quite make it all the way to Hana before turning back but it was definitely worth it!

Click on any photo to see more! Aloha!

img_0855b

We were greeted with views of the stream and local flora:

We explored the park and had a lovely lunch, click on any photo to see more of Hawaii! Aloha!

""

After the show we hiked around and caught some photos of the Silversword plant which only grows in this location!  

The drive down was stunning with views of Kahului:

Of course we stopped several times to photograph the flowers as well!

Click on any of the photos above to see more of Hawaii!  Aloha!

Flying into Honolulu was a treat as we flew over historic Pearl Harbor:

 The grounds at Honokeana Cove Condos are bursting with native plants:

And the views are gorgeous!

Click on any of the above photos to see more photos!  More posts to come, including Haleakala Summit and The Road to Hana, Aloha!

With your help, my cyanotype Mumaaso Ekisimbe #1 won the People's Choice Award!  

Screenshot of the online Winner's Gallery

From hot bands to car shows,  dancers and graduation, check out some of the sights around town from the last few months!

In order of appearance: Basura Punk Ska performing at Art House, DJ and Drummer (didn't catch their names), Richard Stark laying down tracks for a Smells Like Monica recording, One Hot Minute at Sequoia Brewery, dancers with paint at Tower T-shirt Factory, car show at Fresno City College, Rockville at Sequoia North, and Sioux City Kid at Peeve's Public House!

I was also lucky enough to participate in documenting (part of) Kearney Park and the interior of Kearney Mansion in a project between Spectrum Fine Art Gallery and the Fresno Historical Society:

Memorial within Kearney ParkPart of a project between Spectrum Fine Art Photography and the Fresno Historical Society to document Fresno's historical sites.

Kearney Park and Mansion

Thanks for checking in, next I'll be unplugging while taking in the views in Maui!

Until next time, xoxo Emily

Tower Theatre, Fresno, California

This first slideshow are images from a day trip my dad and I took up the 180 freeway,

through the foothills and to Grant's Grove in Sequoia National Forest:

180 to Grant's GroveDay trip up the 180 Freeway, through the foothills and into Sequoia National Park!

All week I snapped photos of the sky, the next set are taken on different days but arranged by location: 

Fresno City College, Tower District, Downtown, Freeway 168 and ending in my back yard:

Fresno: Urban LandscapesAll week I snapped photos of the sky! These were taken on various days but arranged by location: Fresno City College, Tower District, Downtown, Freeway 168 and ending in my backyard.

Until next time!  xoxo, Emily

I love processes where the results vary...I guess it's my form of gambling!  

The Calling and Refusal, 2014.Digital transfer on aluminum, 5" x 7"

Here's a few snaps of my classmates in the midst of the process:

Dipping into the sauce.DASS Supersauce is used for this process. Applying the image.An image printed on transfer film is being applied to the treated surface. Transfer complete!After 3-4 minutes the solution has released the image from the transfer sheet and onto the receiving material!

I played a bit in the darkroom as well, using the Sabatier Effect to give a new dimension to a portrait I took of Chris on 35mm black and white film:

Chris March 2014Silver Gelatin 8"x10" Chris Sabatier, 2014.The Sabatier Effect causes the highlights to go dark which creates a positive/negative look. Chris Sabatier/PhotogramMade by exposing the photo, adding shapes and re-exposing, then adding the Sabatier effect during development.

The photogram technique was used in the last photo to add the shapes!

Here's another photogram made with shapes cut out from pages of a book.  

The portrait below was taken by my friend Mohammed, but when I saw it I knew I wanted to try the Sabatier effect with it!

Mohammed was kind enough to let me borrow the negative :)

Alchemy Head, 2014.Silver gelatin photogram, 5"x7" Leen, 2014.Silver gelatin photograph using the Sabatier Effect, 8"x10"

 Feel free to post any questions or comments below!

 xoxo, emily

Circus Etcetera Photos

The performers really inspired me to sketch out some photo ideas revolving around their "characters".  In one of my classes we are getting ready to try Digital Emulsion Transfers so I used a couple of the aerialist photos to test out the process, below are the images in photoshop, next week I'll post the transfers!

Can't wait to transfer this image to an aluminum sheet next week!

     Come out next Arthop (March 6th, 5-8pm) to Fresno City Hall for the FCC Photography Group Show, below is the flyer (image by Imelda Cardona)

My series 'Mumasso/Ekisimbe' (view under the Collections tab) are portraits taken in East Africa with plants overlaid (Mumasso/Ekisimbe means Face/Plant in Luganda, the local language) then printed as a Cyanotype.  When selecting the plants to overlay I chose plants shot in the same areas the portrait was taken to create a metaphor or tell the story of the relationship between the person and their environment and how it might bear on their life.  

The Process: These all started as digital photographs which were then turned to black and white, then combined and refined in Photoshop.  Next the image is inverted to create a negative and printed onto a transparency.  Now that we have a negative we start the Cyanotype printing process (one of the oldest photographic processes, discovered in 1842!) which involves mixing chemistry, hand coating the paper to be printed on, exposing the photograph, developing the photo then toning with green tea.  If you have any questions feel free to email me (emily@emilyredondo.com) and if you are interested in learning (and live in Fresno) I HIGHLY recommend Fresno City College's course Photo 27: Alternative Photography.

Coinciding with the show is the Rangefinder Alternative Photography contest. Voting for the People's Choice Award has been competitive and I am so thankful to my supporters for keeping me high in the rankings!  To vote visit: http://www.rangefinderalternative.com/bin/Rate?image_id=2014200019

This is the last weekend of 'One Off" so if you haven't made it tonight, Friday, February 21st, 7p-9p there will be a LIVE DEMO of an Alternative/Historical Process and our Artist Reception is this Sunday, February 23rd, from 3p-6p.  The Artist Reception is always great since the artists are on hand to answer any questions and give insight to their work!

See you this weekend!

Life has been great: hanging out with friends and family, doing volunteer work at the Storyland Mural project, celebrating passing lives, and rockin' out with my band Smells Like Monica. Below is a slideshow of some of these moments, enjoy!

My first few weeks back I've been having a blast being with family and friends and appreciating them more than ever before.  Chris had a gig with Acoustic Highway (boy was he happy to play his guitar again!) and school has started back up.  Photographically, I have started to take photos of the people and places I had previously taken for granted; being in awe of a foreign place has made me realize that (duh) my home is foreign to others- what is commonplace to me might be wildly unimaginable to somebody else!  So there are photos of the my co-workers, the meter man giving out tickets, traffic to find a parking space, my teachers and so on.  This is the life I've fallen into so I will show it to all!  xoxo, emily

The next day we headed to Heathrow for our 11 hour flight back to Los Angeles.  As we sat there I had time to start processing all that we had done and seen in the last 29 days.  We saw a wide spectrum of the way others in our species live, from the age-old yet modern, art infused London to the third world slums, villages and developing cities of Uganda.  My inner questions of place and purpose has been broadened to a global level and made both more complicated and simplified.  

This was our first trip outside of the United States and I am addicted, exploring what is new to me and being able to share it with you has been a great joy, thank you.

So if you see me staring off into space, know that although my body is here in Fresno, California, my mind might be thousands of miles away wandering the streets of London or strolling through the markets of Kampala.   xoxo, emily

After a quick wander around we loaded back in the van for the 5 hour drive back to Kampala.

 Along the way I wrote some lyrics for a song, here's the third verse:

           In the land of equal days & equal nights,

                       Their chosen way was fighting for equal rights~

                                       Found their love down on the equator line,

                                                        Both passionate to help human kind~

  So now we have two days left in Kampala, tomorrow we go back to the market and tour the town with John!   xoxo, emily

More info on Murchison Falls from the World Water Database:

http://www.worldwaterfalldatabase.com/top-100-waterfalls-list/5/

The Nile River harbors dozens of waterfalls - or at least rapids which have been named as waterfalls - but its most significant cataract is indeed among the most powerful waterfalls on the planet. Found within Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda, the Victoria Nile splits into two channels, with one side crashing over a wide block-shaped fall while the other surges through a narrow crevice, sliding and pounding down an inclined chute, dropping a total of 141 feet (43m). Thanks to its source in Lake Victoria - Africa's largest lake - the falls run with great consistency throughout the year.

A waterfall of over 100 feet on the Nile River is significant first and foremost, but that Murchison Falls is so unique in appearance and behavior makes it an even more worthy entry to this list. The strange contrast of a wide plunging curtain set against the opposing narrow sluice-like chasm isn't necessarily globally unique, but the other waterfalls which may have a similar appearance are either much smaller in volume or are part of a much larger set of cataracts. That Murchison Falls has been protected from the regulation that has hindered virtually all other waterfalls along the Nile further points to how special this waterfall is.

The last 24 hours has been filled with a new type of "firsts" than the previous few weeks; London, Kampala and Ekitangaala Ranch has been about how different people live, but this was about how different species live.  Infused with it a different point of reference to peace, life and beauty.   Sometimes it's easy to say that one person or group might be "right or wrong" this makes me realize that concepts of good versus bad are constructions of our own minds for who judges nature?  It is what it is, in its beauty and carnage.  

Tomorrow we drive to the top of Murchison Falls before heading back to Kampala!   

Soon we saw herds of giraffes, elephants, bushbuck and water buffalo grazing over the savanna.  We stopped along the Nile and was able to get some close-ups of the local flowers.  The morning went on as we continued our search for the lions, every driver we passed stopped to exchange information and nobody had seen them.  After 4 hours of searching we finally headed back to the hotel for lunch and relaxation before our next adventure, a cruise down the Nile!   xoxo, emily

After entering the park we drove to the Nile ferry crossing that would take us to the other side and to Paraa Lodge.  While waiting for the ferry we watched hippos in the river and a beautiful sun streaked sky unfold in front of our eyes!

Checked into the lodge then dashed off for our first game drive!    xoxo, emily

Rhinos were declared extinct in Uganda in 1983, the rhinos at the park are Southern White Rhinos and have been brought in from different places in an effort to repopulate Uganda with rhinos.  

There are now twelve rhinos at the park, for more info and to see how you can help please visit: www.ziwarhino.com  Next we went to meet Dani and Eric to go further north to Murchison Falls Park!  xoxo,  emily

We returned to the ranch to go get water how everyone gets water-pumping into a 5 gallon jerry can.  Getting water, gathering firewood and food is usually the job of the kids in a homestead.  Chris caused quite a stir since nobody had ever seen a muzungu carry a jerry can, let alone on his head!

We had dinner of posho and beans at CLA boys school where Chris entertained with Bob Marley songs on the guitar while I took photos in the near pitch dark dining hall.  We had so much fun and so many new experiences at the ranch, the simple and quite lifestyle was a nice break from busy Kampala.  The next morning we left bright and early to head off on safari!   xoxo, emily

We then toured the classrooms, everywhere we went kids wanting a "snap" followed, hugged and poked us (I guess to make sure we were real?).  We then went to the kitchen to see preparations and get our lunch of beans and posho (maize flour mash) which is a staple food in Uganda and what the kids eat for lunch every day.

After lunch we were treated to the school's dance, singing and drum group doing traditional dances.  There was a group of kids who were fascinated by my camera and followed me to see the instant images and video that popped up on screen.  

Next we went to see one of the ranch's herds where Chris and I milked a cow for the first time! We then rested before heading out to the the students vs. teachers football game (students won 2-1 and there was much rejoicing by the students).

On our way to dinner we met recent arrivals to the ranch, a family of Karamojong (a tribe from Northern Uganda known for their herding), which was a pleasant surprise.  We then went to dinner at the all boys Cornerstone Leadership Academy of, you guessed it, more posho and beans.  The boys had many complex questions about America's political and social system; heavy questions that we tried to answer as well as possible and led to a long dinner of good conversation.    xoxo, emily

Short uncut video of the kids dancing:

We then continued north passing trade centers (markets) and finally arriving at the ranch where we did an overall driving tour (the large building was designed and project overseen by my cousin Eric!  So proud!) then settled in to our guest cottages for the night.  As I walked around the cottages I found a dead snake draped over an agave(?) plant that had died with a gecko in it's mouth-there's a parable in that photo somewhere!  Maybe you can put into words the lesson captured?   xoxo, emily

On the 18th we headed out the door to our first destination Cornerstone Leadership Academy Jakana-Matugga which is an all-girls school. Along the way I snapped photos of a lady surrounded by chickens on a boda-boda (motorcycle for hire-the most efficient form of transport) and the roadside businesses that line all major roads.  

Once arrived we were greeted and given a tour of the chapel, the general assembly room (where some students eat too), kitchen and library.  We then were led by the mzee (Mmm-zay. A term of respect for older men in Swahili) who watches the gate and grounds to where the food is grown and down to the well and water pump (the child in doorway was at a homestead we passed while hiking to the well, fruit growing, and bird nests).  The water is pumped up to the large black containers by the school.  The students then pump the water into the five gallon jerry cans so that they have water to shower, wash clothes, and (after being poured through a Tiva water filter) used to cook and drink.  We then hit the road again to make it to Ekitangaala by night fall...more on that next post!   xoxo, emily

This will be my last post for about 5-6 days since we will be going out to Ekitangaala Ranch then on to Safari so will be off the grid!

Cheers and thanks for keeping up with us! xoxo, emily

July 13th we woke up early and headed to the slums in Khibuli for community service (no I didn't take my camera, this time was about them not me!).  We spent the morning with kids from Khibuli Boys home, Mengo Girls home and Mekere Boys home shoveling out rubbish from some of the wells where the people of the slums get their water.  I will try to go back to get some photos (but we've all seen photos from t.v. ads I'm sure), but no photo can truly prepare you for the slums.  Shacks made from anything that can be found create huge mazes where families fight to survive.  Disease is rampant and trash is everywhere.  Once you realize how cheap it is (on an American salary) to live well in Kampala it becomes even more depressing.  Kids with little to no clothes collect water and firewood, yet most everyone I have met has been joyous and full of life!  It is amazing truly realize that the "stuff" we cling to cannot bring happiness since those here who have literally nothing can be so kind and welcoming.

After community service, we went back to Khibuli Boys home for dance performances and a debate put on by the homes.  We got to know many of the kids one-on-one and has been one of the most enjoyable experiences so far!  The dancers (kids 10-16 years old) are incredibly talented and danced styles combining ethnic, RnB, Hip Hop and breakdancing.  The debate was Village Life vs. City Life and the kids were very well spoken and professional (more so than I ever was at that age)!  We made promises to return so that we could return the favor and perform some songs for them.

Next we went to our cousins Eric and Dani's home for a delicious peanut sauce dinner.  Pita bread filled with fresh carrots, cucumber, avocado, sage, cilantro, limons (a term coined by Dani, a fruit which seems to be a mix of lemon and lime, mmmm) topped with a spicy peanut sauce.  The vegetables were all from the local farmers market (which run every day in multiple areas of the city) and the entire dinner cost about $5 (take that Hot N Ready)!!!  After dinner we played "Corn Hole" which is an Indiana game (where Dani is from) while sipping on rums infused (by Eric and Dani) with cinnamon, clove, and vanilla.  Afterwards we headed to Gattomatto, a local bar where live music is played.  Although there was no live music we enjoyed the company of Dani and Eric's friends, a group of expats (expatriates, people from other countries) who had many fascinating stories to share! 

July 14th we had brunch at the Kreutter home where Cathy made a "traditional Graham breakfast" of eggs, bacon and taters!  We also had delicious fresh fruit (have I mentioned how amazing the fruit is here?  Best I've ever tasted!  No chemicals!) and lively conversation ranging from politics to religion to how to tan a hide (remember when I said Dani negotiated a price for a hide and skull? Well those were "fresh" too haha).  I then spent the afternoon documenting our Kampala home! Enjoy and post any questions about any photos here!  xoxo, emily

We went to a shop called The Bookend, one of the many places Aunt Cathy sells her book, I Know An Old Mzee Who Swallowed A Fly.  It is an African take on the classic American story "I Knew An Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly", all profits from the book go towards sending kids from Uganda to school, check it out: www.oldmzeebook.com and on amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Know-Old-Mzee-Who-Swallowed/dp/061563060X

We then went to a local shopping center, Garden City, to see if she needed to restock the book in a book store there. 

<<<Cement sculptures at Garden City.

Next we went by a local gallery called Aristock.  Outside was a traveling knife sharpener who has his sharpening wheel attached to his bike! Genius!

The art was awesome and different than the typical "tourist" art that is sold in gift stores.

Next we headed to a school field where practice would be, there were

lots of kids running around, below are some school girls.  To the right

is a small creek/sewage drainage running right next to the schoolyard.

The guys start practice!  Nobody wears shin guards and few have cleats!

The Wolves are a team sponsored by Cornerstone and is also a mentoring program. Stone (photo above left with blue 19 jersey) was on the national team in the 80's and was signed to a pro team when his knee blew out.  He now uses his talents to coach, mentor and recruit.

Chris and John (our guide, green shirt) pose with the team!  Find the mzungu (white person)! Haha

We then finished our evening with a walk to see the sunset and an overview of Kampala:

We are having a blast learning about the work my family does here, the culture and the city! Thanks for checking in on us! Cheers!

xoxo, emily

Later in the day we went on a photo shoot with my cousin Dani who wanted to walk down to some old railroad cars. 

To the right are ruins of a building being reclaimed by nature.

<<<Who needs a Home Depot to buy plants? Just buy them on the side of the road!

>>>Many people walk along the tracks as a shortcut, Dani got a great close up of the woman heading towards us.  She is an excellent self-taught photographer who is great at capturing people, check out her work at: https://www.facebook.com/PortraitsOfKampala

We came across a bunch of Maribu Storks and what looked like cattle bones and tails all over the railroad tracks:

After speaking to some folks in the area, Dani found out that we were behind a slaughterhouse.  We entered through the back and also found out that all of the people living in the slums behind the slaughterhouse worked there.  Dani negotiated a price for a hide and skull...

We then walked back to the car and went to a photographer's workshop being taught by photojournalist Tadej Znidarcic.  We didn't stay the entire workshop since it was basic stuff, but it was interesting to see some of Tadej's world class work!  As we arrived home the power went out briefly and we had a candlelight dinner with Aunt Cathy.  

These photos are all right by the airport on the way to Kampala....

As I said, these photos don't do the experience justice!  I will give you a real taste soon enough :)       xoxo, emily

Chris' favorite artwork at the gallery, looks like a peaceful scene but the details are made of writhing creatures!  The photo on the right is a room half filled with motor oil which creates an optical illusion; this installation has travelled with the gallery for it's last 3 locations!

As we went to Hard Rock Cafe we passed a broken water main that had flooded two blocks and Buckingham Palace:

We got to the Hard Rock shop in time to take a tour of the vault

We then rushed to the airport to start our 8 hour flight to Entebbe, Uganda!  Until next time London!

<Chris ordering the goods.

Here is a local mosque, there is a large Muslim community in this area.

Although the galleries we were looking for were closed we still found some awesome examples of how street art is still ART!  We had fun cruising the streets and pub hopping our way back to the hotel!

         xoxo, emily

We were bummed that we were not going to Africa when we thought but at least we were "stuck" in our new favorite city!  Free hotel and free meals for two days definitely eased the pain along with the 1000 pounds they compensated us!!! So our adventure in London continues!

                    xoxo, emily

We started by walking over one of the pedestrian bridges. Note the video camera, did you know London is the most watched city in the world? There are few public places that are not monitored!

We walked by the London Eye (the ferris wheel looking thing) but were unwilling to stand in the massive line.  My favorite photos are the "abstract"

<<<Where's Cinderella???

The bubble man (below) was a crowd favorite!

The bridge below is covered by large solar panels that supply up to 50% of the city's energy!

We finally found the Tate Modern!  It has four floors of exhibits and construction has begun to add more space, how I love this city that loves art!

<<<From the African Modern Art Exhibit, each chess piece is about 2ft high- one side covered in U.S. dollars the other side covered in euros.

Above is a Man Ray sculpture, to the left is a Matisse painting and below is one of Picasso's reclining nudes.

South Bank is a very nice walk (once you get through the crowds of tourists)

This was supposed to be our last full day in London...

                                            xoxo, emily

On July 5th we went to Denmark Street so Chris could do some drooling :)

Later on in the week we went back so Chris 

could pick up a new toy: 

12 Stage Phaser Moogerfooger...

Some sights along the way: Soho Square where locals chillax and eat lunch, the Queen musical and the Once Musical!

Thanks for keeping track with us!  

We are now in Kampala, Uganda...but before we get to those photos I have a few more days of London to share with you! Cheers!

                               xoxo, emily

A couple blocks off the main road we found a farmer's market:

Next we found a Community Garden where there were lots of trails, flowers and people tucked into corners enjoying the lovely day:

We took a break at a cafe; most cafes serve espresso, americanos, lattes or flat whites (frappuccinos, we win today! Mwahaha) and beer!

 Check out this sweet system, cycles for hire! Pick up and drop off at numerous locations throughout the city (and the first 30 mins is free, so if you're traveling close or are fast you can get around for super cheap)

Fossil...

As we headed back to the hotel...

<<<Solo drummer jammin' to backtracks!

View from the park by our hotel>>>

Below are some street views!

Tomorrow we are planning on hitting Denmark Street aka Guitar Heaven!  Stay Tuned...

                    xoxo, emily

Of course we hit pubs along the way, then settled into a pub by the hotel called 'Round Midnight which has live music EVERY night!

We caught an awesome big band called The Spanner Big Band:

We counted 15 musicians on the stage! We had an awesome time and are planning on seeing the changing of the guard in the a.m.

Stay tuned for more photos!!!

xoxo, emily

Throughout this last day I've been embracing what I have with the realization that in a month I'll be back with a whole new appreciation for my life.  It is interesting to feel how much love I have for my family and friends yet also know that that love will have grown exponentially by the end of this journey.  I am excited to take in a thousand new sights, to be so overwhelmed by every moment that it will take months to truly process the experience.  

Now it's time to pack up the laptop and finish tiding up the house for the house sitter.  Next post will be from "the other side of the pond!" Cheers!

                                                                                                                xoxo, emily

We've got everything packed and I even branded my luggage with my logo :D 

Can't wait to have a whole month of no deadlines, just living life and going with the flow.  

So a little background to answer your questions:  

Why Africa?  My Aunt Kathy, Uncle Tim and cousins Eric and Dani are doing some amazing work with kids and adults in Uganda.  

Finally, after waiting over 10 years to go visit them we decided to stop making excuses and MAKE IT HAPPEN!

So about a year ago we made the decision to stop spending money (besides the absolute necessities), that meant no going out to eat,

no buying new anything, no makeup, etc. and we were able to save what we needed.  

The possibilities are amazing when you set out to accomplish something!

                                                             xoxo, emily