2010 Photography Workshops: Soulful Fine Art Black & White Portraiture

Perth | Sydney | Melbourne | Cairns

35mm | 120 roll film | digital | professionals | keen amateurs

2010 Soulful Fine Art Black & White Portrait Photography Workshops

in Australia with Nicole Boenig McGrade

Join Nicole for an interactive, hands-on workshop to explore the art of natural light black & white fine art portraiture capturing emotive, soulful portraits. Learn technical aspects of natural lighting, metering and composition, how to work with difficult and low natural lighting. Explore the emotive and personal side to portraiture. Discover the beauty and challenges of photographing people, including children.

Fri, 15 January 2010 - PERTH

1 day workshop with Nicole Boenig McGrade
in Perth, Western Australia
For details and to register your interest contact Nicole Boenig McGrade.

Fri, 29 January 2010 - SYDNEY

1 day workshop with Nicole Boenig McGrade
in Sydney, NSW
For details and to register your interest contact Nicole Boenig McGrade.


Fri, 23 April 2010 - MELBOURNE
1 day workshop with Nicole Boenig McGrade
in Melbourne, Victoria
For details and to register your interest contact Nicole Boenig McGrade.


9 July 2010 - CAIRNS
1 day workshop with Nicole Boenig McGrade
in Cairns, Queensland
For details and to register your interest contact Nicole Boenig McGrade.

For international photography workshops in 2010 contact Nicole Boenig McGrade.

Diana Krall, Melody Gardot & Madeleine Peyroux

Three of my favourite musicians coming to Perth in 2010:
Diana Krall, Melody Gardot & Madeleine Peyroux
See you in February 2010.
Creatively yours,
Nicole Boenig McGrade

Why do we make photographs?

Photographs are not just to enhance a collection on one's walls, or as an investment in art, but also play a big part the history of  society. A historical record or a memory of an old ghost town in the outback of Australia, changes in the life of a growing city, a park inhabited by old whispering trees, ... - and of course memories of family, friendship and life.

Often vanity stops us from having photographs taken of ourselves and our own lifestyle, our memories of today - because we are not the right age, or the right body size, or the house is not perfect yet, or the garden needs more growth, or the next baby has not arrived yet - or we are uncomfortable photographing our own children in public due to society pressure in the noughties.... There are many excuses not to take photographs. I feel sorry for all the Dad's who feel they can no longer comfortably photograph their own children in public. It also concerns me a great deal, when we are told we can no longer photograph within cities, of buildings, public spaces and places. We are effectively wiping out a generation or more of photographic history. Our libraries will have few records of this era.

Years ago, I offered to create a historical record of student life at my children's primary school whilst my children attended the school. One person was concerned about the photographs (before they were even taken) and so the whole idea was cancelled. My children will all be in high school from next year. I feel sad for the primary school's loss, the parent's loss, shire council's loss and society's loss. I hope this attitude will change where minority rules changes very soon.

Photographs we make today are not for ourselves. Their main purpose is to save our failing memories for the future - our children, to keep and pass on to their children or even to public collections. Today everything will always look so much more interesting than in 10 years time. Even pictures of ourselves will look so much better in 10 years time... when we were younger.

My husband is a firefighter and until just a few years ago, after saving the lives from burning homes, the firefighters would try to recover some of the most important personal items - family photo albums. Today most photographs are stored on computers and discs.

I recently completed a photography workshop at a primary school and the work created by the students was very impressive. I was touched by the enthusiasm displayed by many of the young children. My next photography workshop is with people who could use a little helping hand. If our only lifetime achievement was to brighten the eyes of someone in need, then life was worth living.

By Nicole Boenig McGrade

Exhibitions & What's On In Perth WA Nov 09

SUMMER DREAMS
by photographer Nicole Boenig McGrade (28 Nov 09 - 28 Dec 09)
Exhibited at The Herdsman, 9 Flynn Street, Churchlands WA

20 YEARS / 20 HOURS
by photographer Tim Buesing on the Berlin Wall
Exhibited at the Luxe Bar in Mt Lawley. Contact Luxe Bar for details.

FABULOUS PEOPLE WITH FABULOUS LIVES
by photographer Douglas Kirkland (until 29 Nov 09)
Exhibited at the new Wesley Quarter, cnr William & Hay Streets, Perth

FOTOFREO 2010 PROGRAMME & FESTIVAL LAUNCH
4th Nov 09, 7:30pm at Kulcha 1st Floor, 13 South Terrace, Fremantle (above Dome Cafe)
Special Guest Speaker: Graham Howe, writer, curator and CEO of Curatorial Assistance Inc. (Los Angeles/Sydney).

BOOK LAUNCH "ATLAS MONOGRAPHS"
by photographer Max Pam
4th Nov 09, 6:30pm at New Edition Bookshop, 82 High Street, Fremantle
Opened by Dr Stefano Carboni, Director of the Art Gallery of Western Australia

EVE : MARILYN
Marilyn Monroe by photographer Eve Arnold (12 Nov 09 - 20 Dec 09)
Exhibited by Gadfly Gallery at the Perth Concert Hall

WOODLANDS PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENT PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION (28 Oct 09 - 12 Nov 09) 22 prints by 22 primary school students between Years 5-7 with disposable film cameras. The workshop was run by Nicole Boenig McGrade and the details about the student photography workshop can be found here.
Exhibited at Woodlands Primary School, Brentwood Ave, Woodlands
This exhibition will then travel to be...
Exhibited at the Cambridge Library, The Boulevard, Floreat WA from 12 Nov 09 until... tba

LOMOVEMBER : LOMOGRAPHIC SHOWCASE
(6 Nov 09 - 8 Nov 09) Contact Gallery for details
Exhibited at The Lomovember Gallery, 104B Murray St, Perth WA (behind Ambar).

SURFSCAPES
by photographer Shane Nener (21 Nov 09 - 13 Dec 09)
Exhibited at The Orangery Fine Art Gallery, 320 Onslow Rd, Shenton Park WA

Arts & Science in Australian mainstream? Is this possible?

Earlier this year, I wrote to the big media moguls asking for more exposure to art in the mainstream. Specifically - to have prime time news, sport and also a few minutes on the latest in The Arts and Science. I received an instant, very short email response telling me sport was the tradition and there is no room for other stuff that people aren't interested in. Such short sighted views are inconceivable.

The problem is (as my mother so eloquently said), if you stick a bunch of people on a remote island (such as Australia) and only feed them chicken and beef, they'll either love chicken or beef - because they don't know anything else! This is what's happening to Australians through the Australian media. We need to be exposed to more variety (especially The Arts & Science), not just sport and sensationalised news. Sure there is Art on TV and in society, but you have to know what you're looking for and go searching for it.

Art and Science should be mainstream, to encourage more creative thinking, compassion and progress in society. Surely we can be more educated and intellectual than what the media determines us viewers want or need.

Art is a creative language for the soul at any age - a language we can all easily learn to appreciate, understand and speak fluently. All this requires is exposure to art in our everyday environment, as a viewer or/and as a creator.

I'll keep sending my letters, run photography workshops (including at primary schools), keep introducing arts festivals in schools and parks and now I'm busy curating a collaboration of collectable fine art photography at a big annual arts event in Perth, WA.

So, the solution is easy: We can ALL do something about this. We can all write to the media, the government, our primary/high/tertiary schools, etc... telling them we want more exposure to The Arts and Science (if that's your cup of tea) - not just one reality tv show after the other, or repeats of the same (repeats) shows each year. Not just the news, sports and weather report day in and day out. The big guns need to "see and hear" that we no longer want just chicken or beef!

by Nicole Boenig McGrade
www.nicoleboenigmcgrade.com



The Australian ABC TV has cut its "Sunday Arts" programme. Last programme this Sunday.

Young Artists Rising

“Mummy, why am I me?” Alicia asks me as she looks at her reflection in the window on a rainy day. I ponder her deep thoughts for a moment and finally suggest we create a “self-portrait” to show some light on her big question. Art is a creative language for the soul at any age - one that we can learn to understand and speak fluently. All we need is encouragement and opportunity to express ourselves, and exposure to art in our environment...

... and so, with the valuable help by a dedicated team of Mums, Woodlands Primary School experienced its first Arts Festival as a part of its school Open Night on Wed, 28th Oct 2009. Over 120 students from Kindy to Year 7 participated in the exciting “It’s Me” self-portrait art competition event. Leading up to the big event, a keen group of young students from years 5 to 7 participated in a specially designed photography workshop with fine art portrait photographer Nicole Boenig McGrade. The teachers and students provided lots of interesting work, including a musical performance for the parents. The evening was full of interest and buzzing atmosphere.

For the “It’s Me” art competition, the students were asked to paint a self-portrait that somehow represented themselves, - such as a person, an object, an abstract, a location, a theme or something they just love to do. The resulting display of everyone’s artwork was a beautiful sea of children, lifestyle, vibrancy and variety, bringing the community together.

The student photography exhibition opening night during the Arts Festival was a great success with over 250 votes received in less than two hours for the People’s Choice Award. The venue was overflowing with visitors and wonderful comments.

Nicole Boenig McGrade’s photography workshop is a challenge for any child growing up in a digital age. She gave each student a disposable film camera with only 27 frames. Over 9 weeks they each had to produce 4 photographs covering various genres, such as landscape, portrait, abstract, movement, etc... The exhibition is the result of 22 remarkable fine art photographic prints by these young photographers, 10-12 years old.

The winner of the People’s Choice Award went to Sophie M for her captivating “Morning Walk” print and the winner of the NBM Student Photographer Award went to Daniel ML for his poetic “Wind in the Washing” print.

The Woodlands Primary School Student Photography Exhibition will remain on display at the school until 11th November 2009.

By Nicole Boenig McGrade

The Story of Stuff

If you haven't seen this already, I highly recommend watching this short, fast paced movie packed full of very interesting information about excesses, commercialisation and consumerism. At the end of the movie are some great tips. Gather the whole family around to watch this and please forward the link on.

Let's share this information of The Story Of Stuff and encourage everyone, including our school's to get involved and take action - today.

Creatively yours,
Nicole Boenig McGrade

Portraiture = Fine Art?

Many commercial art galleries, it seems, are looking for "shock value" (photographic) exhibitions these days and the finer art of Fine Art, or at least the appreciation for it seems to have disappeared amongst a sea of crassness - at least for the time being. I enjoy visiting many galleries on a regular basis, to experience art in all mediums. Some I thoroughly enjoy and others I question what on earth the curator was thinking.

The beauty about art is, it is subjective and the viewer brings their own opinions and life's experiences into the space. I posted this earlier, The Vanity Fair Portrait Exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery in Canberra this year was exquisite and I did write about it earlier. Here, was an exhibition full of portraiture that easily fitted into various categories, including Fine Art.

So, what makes a portrait photograph - Fine Art? The quality? Is it the age of the photograph? Is it the light? The pose? The toning of the photograph? The printing process? Whether it's a traditional darkroom silver gelatin print or a digital print? Is it the story it conveys? Does it have to be elevated by being a photograph of someone famous? Or is it influenced by who the photographer was? Having the photographers original signature on the print certainly makes it more interesting.

Some big galleries will only exhibit portrait photographs of famous people - or people that have achieved something notable in their lifetime. This is surprising, as they are eliminating history of life itself. They will have no history or evidence of (Australian) childhood in their collection.

As a fine art portrait photographer, I photograph each portrait, whether it's directed or undirected, natural or posed, with the goal to create Fine Art. It is something I "feel" for with my eyes, whilst looking through the lens. Seeing is instinctive and as an artist or a viewer (often both), our education, life's influences and experiences over time will influence our ability to see, perceive and understand Fine Art.

Creatively yours,
Nicole Boenig McGrade

PICTURING PEOPLE Black & White Photographic Exhibition by Nicole Boenig McGrade

Black & White Photographic Exhibition
PICTURING PEOPLE

by dedicated film photographer & artist
NICOLE BOENIG McGRADE

1 Aug - 30 Sept 09

Cambridge Library
99 The Boulevard, Floreat WA 6014, Australia
www.nicoleboenigmcgrade.com

"Beautiful Kate" debut Feature Film directed by Rachel Ward

This evening I had the wonderful pleasure of viewing Rachel Ward's highly anticipated debut feature film "Beautiful Kate" at the Luna Palace Cinemas, Leederville. After the movie Rachel Ward was present and open to answer any questions.

There are many words to describe the movie "Beautiful Kate" , the ones that come to mind are moving, haunting, luring, forbidding, captivating, morally off kilter (quote Rachel Ward from this evening) with surprises around every corner. A highly recommendable viewing. One of the very few movies that will linger.

As a fine art photographer, I thoroughly enjoyed the photographic play with shift & tilt lenses, the photography is superb.

Filmed in a picturesque scenery, the Flinders Ranges in Australia, is an interesting choice, with a stellar Australian cast: Ben Mendelsohn, Bryan Brown, Maeve Dermody, Rachel Griffiths - and the mesmerising Sophie Lowe as Kate - a beauty and talent to behold.











As a writer and director, Rachel Ward's story telling is challenging, palletable and deliberate. I look forward to seeing more of her unique work.

"Beautiful Kate" has just been added to the International Toronto Film Festival schedule. Congratulations and well deserved!

- by fine art photographer, Nicole Boenig McGrade

Soulful Portraiture Workshop - Melbourne 5 July 09 with Nicole Boenig McGrade

SOULFUL PORTRAITURE WORKSHOP
with Nicole Boenig McGrade
Melbourne, Australia
Sunday 5th July 2009
10am - 5pm

Join Nicole for a one-day interactive, hands-on workshop to explore the beautiful art of natural light portraiture. This workshop is suitable for anyone wanting to explore the finer art of portrait photography.

For details visit Nicole Boenig McGrade's website.

Vanity Fair Portrait Exhibition - National Portrait Gallery, Canberra

If you haven't already visited the Vanity Fair Portrait Exhibition by senior curator Michael Desmond at the National Portrait Gallery in Canberra - it is well worth a visit and is on display until the 30th August 2009.

A Collaboration between Vanity Fair and the National Portrait Gallery London showing prints by various photographers, including Annie Leibovitz, Bruce Weber, Man Ray, Helmut Newton, Cecil Beaton, Mario Testino, Edward Steichen, Florence Vandamm, Imogen Cunningham, Arnold Genthe, Compton Collier, Tim Walker, Maurice Goldberg, Anton Bruehl; Herb Ritts, George Hoyningen-Huene, James Abbe, Mary Ellen Mark and many more...

The photographs are wonderfully printed with various mediums. Here are (just) a few that stood out for me:
Photographs of Bette Davis; Jean Harlow; Marlene Dietrich; Adele & Fred Astaire; Ann Harding; Geena Davis; Cary Grant; Liza Minnelli; Igor Stravinsky; Princess Di and Prince William; Nicole Kidman; Madonna; Jack Nicholson; Kate Winslet; Clint Eastwood; Augustus John; Demi Moore; Julianne Moore; Tony Bennett; George Gershwin; Ethel Barrymore; The Redgraves; Catherine Zeta-Jones; Robert Mapplethorpe; various American Presidents; Elton John; Leonide Massine; Princess Caroline of Monaco; Virginia Woolf; Clark Gable; Salvador Dali; Henri Cartier-Bresson and Ernest Hemingway.

My favourite prints in the entire exhibition were:
The Albertina Rasch Dance Troupe by Florence Vandamm from 1927;
Dancer Margaret Severn by Arnold Genthe from 1923 and
Edward Gordon Craig at Notre Dame, Paris, by Edward Steichen from 1920
- incredibly beautifully crafted!












The book of the exhibition: "A Century of Iconic Images" by Graydon Carter and the editors of Vanity Fair, including an essay by Christopher Hitchens - is worth the investment.

When I was there yesterday, the gallery was full of viewers. Once, I was told that portraits will never be of interest to anyone but their own people/family. I am happy to say this has been proven incorrect time and time again. It's nice to see portraiture, including black and white portraits, back in the lime light. I will happily continue my journey in creating and exhibiting fine art black and white portraiture.

Presentation by Nicole Boenig McGrade at the Sydney ACOCP Meeting & Workshops, 24 June 2009

I'd like to thank the ACOCP (Australian Community of Child Photographers) for inviting me to speak at their 2-Day AGM & Workshops event for their members on 24th & 25th June 2009.
My talk and presentation will be on: "Soulful Childhood Portraiture" and silver gelatin photographic prints of my work will be on display.

If you would like further information, please contact the ACOCP.
Nicole Boenig McGrade

Scratchings from my Notebook

• There is an artist in everyone, our inner voice calling for freedom of expression. As artists we have the freedom choose which medium to express ourselves with.

• Freedom of expression comes with responsibilities, such as showing sensitivity and respect for others.

• As an artist and a photographer, my camera should not see better than I do.

• Photography is a private and personal journey. It's an eclectic collection of passion, self sacrifice, empathy and an undying determination.

• A room without photographs is like a life without memories.

- Nicole Boenig McGrade

Little Book of Inspirations

We all have our moments when we want to be creative and find ourselves without inspirational thoughts and ideas. I keep a notebook with me at all times to write down thoughts or things I see in the environment around me (people, places, movies, music - love jazz and blues,...) that grabs my attention or jolts a trip down memory lane. My problem is not having a lack of ideas, (the brain never wants to sleep) I find it challenging to "order" all my ideas. So my Little Book of Inspirations helps me make sense of these ideas, find patterns, categorise and create bodies of work.

Some of my most recent unorganised scratchings from my Little Book of Inspiration...

soft window lighting with sheers gently moving; flowers in old window; infidelity; lies; reflections in old wooden floors; imperfections are perfectly beautiful; facial expression determination anger fear; streetlights in the dark; lost trades; soft rembrandt lighting; Charlie Chaplin; finish studio and gallery; bigger darkroom for alternative processes ie glass plates tintypes cyanotypes polaroid etc...; self portrait one day; never abandon dreams; old cars; soft very low light; old linen; more with my large format cameras; instruments piano guitar violin; cats dogs horses; barns; low low low light; hidden treasures; forgotten memories; hats; define talent; body language; the pinch of an ear; the pictures take over; sensitivity; privacy; the beauty of a collection of small prints; ...

There are "100's of stories" that can come from a combination of any of our own thoughts. All we need to do is pay attention to them.

Limited Edition Fine Art Photographs on Silver Gelatin Fibre Based Papers: Jackadder Lake, Australia

Limited Edition (1/20) Fine Art Photographs on Silver Gelatin Fibre Based Paper.


To purchase fine art photographic prints please contact the photographer Nicole Boenig McGrade.

Limited Edition Fine Art Photograph on Silver Gelatin Fibre Based Paper: "RAINMAN"

Limited Edition Print For Sale - 6/20
Silver gelatin fibre based fine art photographic print, signed & dated by the photographer
Print size: 7" x 15"

To purchase fine art photographic prints please contact the photographer Nicole Boenig McGrade.

Cottesloe Beach Blurry Dreams with the Diana Toy Camera

I wish I had more time to concentrate on my own projects...


but these things need time to evolve...


and that's a good thing.


Exhibition Photographic Prints...


on Silver Gelatin Fibre Based Paper.


Photography by Nicole Boenig McGrade

Women Photographers Gathering & Print Reviews - 3rd April 09

Fri 3rd April is our gathering with friends and colleagues to celebrate Women in Photography and their achievements - and review portfolios/prints.

Further information is in the post here.

Picture Frames free to good homes

I have 15+ picture frames (with glass) to go to good homes - for free. They are contemporary, flat black 30mm frames, in a few sizes, but the majority are 45cm x 55cm and have been used in some of my previous photography exhibitions and gallery displays.

If you're interested, contact me by Saturday 4 April 09 - otherwise they will be donated to the local arts college.

Best wishes,
Nicole

Photography Festivals in Australia - and beyond

There are a few photography events in Australia worth making a long treck through the desert for, such as Foto Freo 2010 in Western Australia and the 2009 Ballarat International Foto Biennale in Victoria. I look forward to bumping into a few good friends and colleagues in Ballarat this year, as I head across the Nallabor Plains in search of some new inspiration, challenging reviews and a good old chat over a glass of Merlot.

A few events coming up:
2009 Spring Arts Collective, LA, US
2009 Palm Springs Photo Festival, California, US
2009 Ballarat International Foto Biennale, Victoria, Australia
2009 Le Mois de la Photo à Montréal, Canada
2009 New York Photo Festival, US
2009 La Biennale di Venezia, Italy
2009 Paris Photo, France
2010 Foto Freo, Fremantle, Western Australia
2010 17th Biennale of Sydney, Australia

David Elliot Public Lecture at the Biennale of Sydney - Australia's Festival of Contemporary Art

David Elliot (Artistic Director of the 17th Biennale of Sydney) will be giving a free lecture at the University of Sydney tonight, 29/3/09. I believe this lecture was also held in Berlin last year. Well worth attending and wish I could be there but if you can't make it, keep an eye out for a podcast or vodcast on the biennale blog.

Everlasting Moments - April 2009

If you're in Perth, Western Australia and appreciate (women in) photography, here is a movie you might be interesting in seeing.

"Everlasting Moments" has received notable reviews and is presented during the Perth Festival in April 2009.

Perth Festival movie screening details
New York Times review
Everlasting Moments trailer

Women Photographers Celebrate International Women's Day - Fri 3rd April 09

When I first started out as a professional photographer,
I was told by a male photographer:
"Women will never make good photographers - because they are too emotional".

This comment is one I refuse to forget. Emotion is the most important ingredient to a successful photograph, or art piece. As an artist and photographer I always work to create a picture that resonates through the viewer or touches them in a way that creates an emotional response.

Today there are an ever increasing number of successful women photographers around the world. Some I have great admiration for and have even had the privilege of meeting on assignments in Europe and North America and developing friendships with over the years.

To celebrate International Women's Day I have organised colleagues, women photographers, to get together in Perth, Western Australia, for an enjoyable afternoon, sharing our stories and discussing women photographers across all genres of photography.

Although International Women's Day is on the 8th March 2009, this event will have to wait until 3rd April 2009 - something to look forward to and save the date.

If you are interested in finding out more about this event or joining us, please make contact through the website at Nicole Boenig McGrade - contemporary lifestyle photographer.

Picking up the paintbrush again never felt so good

I used to paint many moons ago and my paintings were mostly portraiture in black and white, of the female form. Some I sold, others I have no idea where they are anymore since I moved around a lot.

In 1989 I lived in Cairns, Australia for a short while, during which I painted (in black and white) a woman on my fridge door (I ran out of canvas) with enamel paints. Since leaving Cairns I have no idea where that fridge ended up, probably in the rubbish dump.

It was only recently I realised black and white photography was a natural change for me from painting. I wouldn't call this a progression, it was not a conscious decision. I just didn't have/or take the time to paint anymore.

These days, I'm so happy to have picked up the paint brush again. My darkroom/studio is in a constant battle between developing film and mixing paints.

The constant creative drive is the cause of my insomnia, which I have learned to accept. I can't help it, when there is so much beautiful light - even in the darkest moments.

Slik Master Standard Tripod - Giveaway

And the winner is....
M Kurtis from Perth, Australia.
Congratulations!
_____________________

I have a Slik Master Standard Tripod to go to a good home. Although it's not brand new, it is very clean, in very good condition and still in it's original box. I already have a Gitzo tripod and therefore have no need for this beauty.

If you are interested in winning this tripod:
1) Create and send me a postcard of one of your own favourite 6x4" or 5x7" photographs
2) Attach a stamp on the reverse side (& my address is below)
3) Write a note about yourself and the postcard you are sending
4) Include your full name and address
5) The subject must be non-offensive to the general public.
6) Deadline for this Slik Tripod Giveaway is 30 March 2009.
7) The winner (best postcard print) will be posted here on 31 March 2009.
8) I will judge the postcard prints and the judges decision is final.
9) If the winner is not able to collect the item themselves (Perth, Western Australia), then he/she must accept to pay shipping costs.
(ie. The F4 camera with battery pack and lens recently won was shipped to NM, USA and cost around AUD $60 with tracking facilities. This tripod is slightly heavier.)

There are various ways to create hand printed postcards. I like to use Ilford Fibre Based Silver Gelatin 5x7" papers and make my own postcard look on the back. I can also recommend the specific Ilford Postcard papers. I'd also like to thank Ilford for their support.

(This is a good will offer to photography students and photographers who would use this item. Please do not contact me if you are only interested in posting this item up for sale for your own financial gain.)

Good Luck! I look forward to receiving your mail.
Nicole


Send Postcards to:

Nicole Boenig McGrade
P.O. Box 2240
Churchlands WA 6018
Australia

Home Decorating - Use Photographs To Transform Your Room

"A room without photographs is like a life without memories."
- Nicole Boenig McGrade

Surrounded by Great Art!

If your dream room is to envelope you with intrigue, warmth and memories, then photographs are an essential element. Whether it's a fine art piece or a favourite memory of your own, (black & white) photographs keep getting better with age, are conversation starters at any gathering and catch your eye each time you walk past.

1) Photographs add a personal element to any space. In groups, on their own, in collections, as a wall display or on the mantelpiece.
2) The quality and condition of the photographs is very important to any individual photograph or a collection.
3) The photographer's original signature adds value to the photographic prints.
4) Old damaged photographs can be revived. If you don't have the original negatives, take them to a professional for retouching and reprinting.
5) A large print in a small space has an impressive effect. Balance is the key.
6) Within a collection, play with different sizes, although a series of prints can also look great as a gallery display of the same size.
7) Collections over time create their own story, whether it's of your family or fine art pieces by (well-known) photographrs. Patience is required.
8) Play around with compositions on your walls. Be mindful that some photographs will "fade" amongst others and demand their own space.
9) Keep your frames simple and understated to allow the photographs to tell their story.
10) It's ok to mix and match when hanging different photographs together. Remember it's best keep the frame style the same for a series of prints by any one photographer.
11) Gallery Hanging Systems: To protect your wall, try using a gallery hanging system. A small rail at the very top of your walls under the cornices from which you hang your prints and can exchange/reposition them without damaging your walls.
12) If your framer hasn't already done so, attach silicon, rubber or felt dots on the bottom corners of your (especially metal) frames to protect your walls.
13) Picture Rails: In the right style of home, old picture rails half up the walls can be very effective for a display of photographs.
14) I'm a firm believer that each photograph deserves its own individual frame. When framed together, prints often lose their own story.
15) Give them the space they deserve.
16) Black & White photographs add mood and mystery to any room, drawing the viewer in to stay a while.

Visit www.nicoleboenigmcgrade.com for samples and for more information, please contact me.

Please help Victoria Bushfire Victims

http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/02/08/2485648.htm?section=justin

Please, let's all pull together and "dig in" to help our fellow Australians affected by the immense bushfires. These people desperately need our help. Visit the Salvation Army or Australian Red Cross website for details on how to help the victims.

Australian contacts:
Bushfire Info Hotline: 1800 240 667
Bushfire Family Hotline: 1800 727 077
Victoria Bushfire Appeal Fund: 1800 811 700
http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au
http://www.redcross.org.au

Please also consider the 1000's of animals who have perished and have been injured during these bushfires. Please support the RSPCA Victoria and the IFAQ Asia Pacific, who are working 24/7 to provide emergency assistance to injured animals:
http://www.rspcavic.org/campaigns_news/news_bushfires.htm
http://www.ifaw.org/ifaw_asia_pacific/

NBM Newsletter (Feb 2009)

The Newsletters (Feb 2009) went out last night. Please let me know if you missed yours or would like to be included on the mailing list.
Best wishes, Nicole

Subiaco Library Exhibition - "Kids In Suburbia" - Feb 09

The exhibition at the City of Subiaco Library is still on display and due to rotate with new prints on 7 Feb 2009.

The exhibition comes to an end on 20 Feb 2009.

I hope you can take time out to drop by the show in Subiaco - and it's a great part of Perth to catch up with friends for a coffee.

The Faceless Future Of Photography

2008 and political correctness has created a number of challenges for me (and many others) as a (portrait) photographer and so I have created a body of work called "The Faceless Future of Photography" : a fight to save the photographic history of our cities, families, lives and lifestyle.
A collection to be exhibited in 2009.

Artists and their Freedom of Speech/Expression

Isn't it ironic that global pornographic websites cannot be closed down by law due to "freedom of speech" to protect our children who are on the global internet every single day (because schools require them to use the internet for just about anything these days), but us (often discreet and cultured) artists are being silenced by law.

I take pride as a fine art portrait photographer that my work is sensitive, soulful and full of expression and life. I'm most grateful to all my clients for their trust in me and couldn't imagine being anything but an artist / photographer.

Recently I've been requested to reconsider a photograph for an exhibition because it had a topless three year old girl next to her topless one year old brother. This black and white fine art photographic print does not fall under the laws by the Australian Children and Arts Protocol, as it was not funded by a government grant. This particular print was commissioned by the children's parents themselves who were also present at the time of the photography session. The exhibition display venue understood their action (according to the Children and Arts Protocol) was probably not necessary, but was taking a precautionary measure. After futher discussions and research, I understood the venue's concerns and we both regretted this had to happen. This precautionary measure continues to worry me (and other artists), as it implies the new protocols (whether they apply or not) are effecting all of us.

After numerous discussions with other artists (even outside the legal ramifications of the Children In Art Protocol) there is a fear of what is possibly yet to come and of course this fear effects how we work every day - effecting our artistic freedom of speech/expression.

Ironic or not, if this keeps going in the same direction, it won't be long before our children will be required to remain entirely covered up - whilst surfing obscene pornographic websites protected by the freedom of speech.

As an artist, photographer and protective mother of two children I believe in protecting all children, but the law is silencing the wrong people and we are heading back to the dark ages.

There is a lot of uncertainty amongst artists (including photographers), which needs to be addressed - today.

Art is so diverse, it's the only international language to survive 1000's of years across continents. Artist's cannot be labelled as one and the same.

Some of the best artworks, photographs and valuable historical pieces in all mediums have been stumbled upon in attics by many unknown.

Artists record history, including our lifestyle and children. There will be no history left of today if this keeps going - apart from pornographic websites.

Artists must be protected and we must preserve our artistic freedom of speech/expression.

By Nicole Boenig McGrade


This letter was one of the many responses after a week of media and public outcry in Australia.

Event: The 2009 Hand Printed International Photography Postcard Exchange for Art Collectors, Photographers, Artists ...

To all Photography Colleagues, Artists, Art Collectors ...
who value inspirational photography and the best in quality,
please join me in an event:
The 2009 Hand Printed International Photography Postcard Exchange.

No matter where you are, when you send me an
original hand printed photograph using traditional methods,
with a stamp on the other side, a hand written note
about the postcard you are sending and of course your address
- I'll be delighted to send you one in return.

I hope this exchange will continue amongst others
to share the love of film and traditional photography.

The rules are:
1) The subject must be non-offensive to the general public.
2) The postcard must be created by hand using traditional methods (not an inkjet printer).
3) Copyright always belongs to the photographer/artist.
4) Taking part in this exchange is voluntary and with good will.

There are various ways to print these cards. I like to use Ilford Fibre Based Silver Gelatin 5x7" papers and make my own postcard look on the back. I can also recommend the specific Ilford Postcard papers. I'd also like to thank Ilford for their support.

Let the fun begin!

My postal address is:
Nicole Boenig McGrade
P.O. Box 2240
Churchlands WA 6018
Australia

Vernissage / Gallery (Online) of Nicole Boenig McGrade

An introduction to my portrait photography can be seen in online galleries at:

Portrait Gallery I
Portrait Gallery II
Reportage Gallery
Tribute Gallery

The Best Job in the World

... Photography? That is an interesting concept caught up in todays red tape of photographing children. I've recently been asked to remove a fine art print from an exhibition of two toddlers, not because the 2 year old boy only had jeans on, but because the 4 year old girl only had jeans on. 2009 will be an interesting year for portrait photographers in a western democratic society in the aftermath of the attention drawn by Bill Henson in 2008.

Exhibition: "Beachobatics" by George Caddy at the State Library of NSW

Curated by Alan Davies at the State Library of NSW is a wonderful exhibition by photographer George Caddy on Jitterbug Dancers at Bondi Beach, New South Wales, Australia. This is very exciting and a show not to be missed!

Muscle Beach Party - Article by Steve Meacham for SMH
Bondi Jitterbug - George Caddy and his Camera - at the State Library of New South Wales

Oh, what freedom we once had photographing people in public - and at the beach...
We must bring this back (now!) or today's history will be sorely missed tomorrow - especially such beautiful pieces!

I don't post other photographer's work on my site, but I just had to pass on this news! Thank you Skorj at FW for alerting me.

Exhibition Dec 09 - Feb 2009

City of Subiaco Library is currently hosting a revolving exhibition of 15 of my fine art prints until 20 February 2009. This work consists of black and white fibre based silver gelatin photographic prints.

Revolving meaning a selection of five different prints each three weeks on the following dates:
20 Dec 08 - 10 Jan 09
10 Jan 09 - 7 Feb 09
7 Feb 09 - 20 Feb 09

THE WINNER IS... (Nikon F4 & 28mm lens Give-Away)

December 2008 I announced in the "Season of Giving" a free a pre-loved (not mine) Nikon F4 & 28mm lens (details in a previous post).

I guess I shouldn't be surprised by the amount of interest in the camera, even though it is a "film" camera. Thank you all very much for your letters and cards in response to the print giveaway! I enjoyed reading everyone's reason for working with film.

The draw was last night...

... and the Winner is...
Becky Ramotowski
NM, USA
Congratulations Becky!

Wishing you and everyone else a happy, healthy and prosperous 2009,
Nicole

THE WINNER IS... (Free Art of Giving)

Just before Christmas 2008 I announced in the "Season of Giving" a free limited edition artist's proof print of "Morning Light, Australia 2008".

Thank you all very much for so many postcards from all over the globe in response to the print giveaway!!! The postie was wondering what was going on with all the extra mail. :)
This was most enjoyable and I loved reading everyone's postcards and thank you for going to the effort of making your own printed cards.

The draw was last night...

... and the Winner is...
Jeff Bannow
MI, USA
Congratulations Jeff!

Print is on it's way to you via snail mail today.

Wishing you and everyone else a happy, healthy and prosperous 2009,
Nicole

Old Nikon F4 Giveaway with Nikkor 28mm f2.8 lens

I shouldn't be surprised by the amount of interest in the camera, even though it is a "film" camera. Thank you all very much for your letters and cards in response to the print giveaway! I enjoyed reading everyone's reason for working with film.

The draw was last night...

... and the Winner is...
Becky Ramotowski
NM, USA
Congratulations Becky!

Wishing you and everyone else a happy, healthy and prosperous 2009,
Nicole
____________________________


Many of us are doing it pretty tough at the moment and photography is quite the luxury.

I hope more people will learn to appreciate the craft of film photography and to add a little sparkle in someone's life, I'm giving away an old Nikon F4 camera with the Nikkor 28mm f2.8 lens with pro grip.

I only picked this item up today and have no idea about the history of this camera and lens and I have not tried them out. The camera body looks well used but seems to work and could do with a clean. This camera is available to a good home as I have no need for another camera and lens.

To go in the draw to win this camera and lens, please send me a hand written (or typed with an old manual typewriter) letter or postcard, the old fashioned way (see my address details on this blog), telling me about your photography journey, why you are interested in film photography, a little about yourself and elaborate why you'd like to win this camera/lens. Don't forget to add the address you'd like the camera shipped to.

Of course for the sake of ease, I'd prefer if the winner were able to collect the camera (in Perth, Western Australia), but if the winner is not local, he/she must accept to pay the shipping costs to wherever they want the camera and lens sent to.

Due date for all mail is Fri 9 Jan 09.
Draw and winner announced here on Sun 11 Jan 09.
Camera/Lens to be collected on, or shipped on Mon 12 Jan 09.

I look forward to receiving your mail.

Paying it forward, (did you see that movie?)
Nicole

The Free Art of Giving - for You!

Thank you all very much for so many postcards from all over the globe in response to the print giveaway!!! The postie was wondering what was going on with all the extra mail. :)
This was most enjoyable and I loved reading everyone's postcards and thank you for going to the effort of making your own printed cards.

The draw was last night...

... and the Winner is...
Jeff Bannow
MI, USA
Congratulations Jeff!

Print is on it's way to you via snail mail today.

Wishing you and everyone else a happy, healthy and prosperous 2009,
Nicole
___________________________

In the spirit of the season, I'm giving away this limited edition artist's proof prints (1/5), which is also part of a 2009 exhibition titled "The Faceless Future of Photography".

"Morning Light, Australia 2008"
10x10" a matted & signed limited edition artists proof print (1/5)
Silver Gelatin Fibre Based Print
with free shipping.

To go in the draw to receive this print, please send me a hand written (or typed with an old manual typewriter) postcard, the old fashioned way (see my address details on this blog), telling me a little about yourself and elaborate why you'd like to receive this print and the address you'd like the winning print sent to.

Due date for entries is Fri 9 Jan 09.
Draw and winner announced here on Sun 11 Jan 09.
Print shipped Mon 12 Jan 09.

I look forward to receiving your mail.

Merry Christmas,
Nicole

THE LOST ART - Photography Exhibition

ONLY 10 DAYS LEFT!

"THE LOST ART" is in todays arts scene a rare black & white photography exhibition, an inspiring collection in a tribute to the lost art of traditional black & white photography by portrait photographer NICOLE BOENIG McGRADE.

VENUE: The Herdsman, 9 Flynn Street, Churchlands 6018, Western Australia
EXHIBITION RUNS: 12 Sept 08 - 12 Oct 08 | 8am - 8pm daily

Europe and North America Tour 2008 Presentation

Slideshow presented during Talks, Presentations and Shows in Europe and North America June/July 2008 - by photographer Nicole Boenig McGrade

THE LOST ART - Photography Exhibition Extended!!

THE LOST ART - Photography Exhibition -
...has been a great success and has been extended until 29 Oct 2008!!

If you haven't seen it yet, here's a last opportunity to drop in. I hope you enjoy it. Feel free to email me at contact@nicoleboenigmcgrade. com if you have any questions.

"THE LOST ART" is in todays arts scene a rare black & white photography exhibition, an inspiring collection in a tribute to the lost art of traditional black & white photography by portrait photographer NICOLE BOENIG McGRADE.

VENUE: The Herdsman, 9 Flynn Street, Churchlands 6018, Western Australia
EXHIBITION RUNS: 12 Sept 08 - 29 Oct 08 | 8am - 8pm daily

Articles & Publications 2008

Perth Woman magazine - Issue 32 - July 2008






















































Photo Review Australia - Spring Issue 37, 2008














































































































Post Newspaper Australia - April 2008 Edition - Exhibition during Foto Freo

Articles & Publications 2006

Black And White Photography magazine (UK) Feb 2006 Edition

Articles & Publications 2005

Ilford IMAGES For Photographery Teachers Magazine - Issue 3 2005























Nicole Boenig McGrade does not agree with the teacher's/writer's viewpoint as the printing quality of the image in the publication could've been much better and the composition remains in the eye of the beholder. The image as seen on Nicole Boenig McGrade's website or at as displayed at the Black & White Gallery in Perth, Western Australia, shows how the printed photograph looks. Here's the example:


























Talk About Subi - Oct 2005 Issue

Why I love Analogue Photography... & Manual Typewriters

Journal Extract: 10pm, Tuesday, 28 October 2008.
(Sitting by the window in the old studio).

There's something very comforting listening to the clickety-clack of an old manual typewriter machine and the deep clunk of the shutter on the old Hasselblad camera - I must be stuck in a time-warp. There's something defining about not being able to change or delete the past thoughts or moments.

For years consumerism and loads of stuff had been clogging my life and I started resenting the thought of "keeping up with the Jones's" (or so the saying goes...). I've always been a rebel and therefore it doesn't come as a surprise to me to refuse to "have to" upgrade software, computers, cameras, printers, scanners, new gadgets to help make life easier, and... more and more stuff... Technology is never what it promises me to be and having made my choice a few years ago to embrace analogue cameras (and recently to old typewriters) and keep my life and gear as simple as possible, has given me an immense sense of freedom and artistic joy. I no longer work with digital cameras and appreciate life's little simplicities, quirks and imperfections.

As a devoted romantic, I enjoy the quiet of my own company whilst pouring my thoughts onto actual paper for my journal, with a glass of red wine and a sliver of dark chocolate or sitting on my veranda with a hot chocolate and an inspiring book. I'm so in love with the tacticle of an old film camera, this follows me through each step of the way in the darkroom to the final print on the wall. It's the many imperfections that show life's wonderful tales. No, I'd rather not delete parts of my life, but think more about the times worth saving - on film, or an old sheet of paper.

My children are the ones to watch. Their talent astounds me. This Christmas I will have the immense joy of giving my daughter, now 10, an (old) manual typewriter. Her writing skills, besides her wonderful paintings and drawings, since the age of 7, have me collecting all her work for her in years to come. My 13 year old son is a keen photographer himself and will receive his own first manual film camera - although I think he'll quickly "upgrade?" to a digital camera. My biggest joy is watching, encouraging and nurturing their talent.

Analogue photography and old typewriters are like a passion, an obsession out of control. Go with the flow and enjoy the journey.

Copyright

Portfolio, Print & Postcard Reviews

For reviews, please contact me.

Your print postcards and letters are always very much appreciated, thank you! I always prefer the written snail mail to emails.