Image of a sliver platter with ginko leaves and purple flowers©Donna Dufault

Art that Celebrates Imperfection And Why I Had to Stop Hiding My Grey Hair to Make This Work

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Imperfect Offering

Imperfect Offering

I didn’t start this work because I had all the answers. I started it because I didn’t.

When I first began photographing silver platters for this new series, I wasn’t thinking about aging, or self-acceptance, or grace. I was thinking about beauty. About balance. About shape and shadow and the quiet elegance of tarnished things.

But something started to shift as I stared at these objects—really stared.

Each platter had scratches, dents, heat spots, years of use etched into its skin. They weren’t perfect, but they were beautiful.

3 silver platters

3 silver platters

And the more I leaned into that beauty, the more I began to wonder:

Why don’t I offer the same reverence to myself?

The Inner Decorator vs. The Inner Critic

I’ll be honest: letting my hair go grey was not easy.
Not because I didn’t want to—it had been whispering to me for a while.
But because I had spent years believing that beauty meant concealment.
Better lighting. (I am a professional photographer obsessed with good light after all!) Better PhotoShop tricks.

A better version of me.

And that thinking didn’t stop at the mirror.
It followed me into the spaces I lived in.

I used to decorate with precision—everything curated, nothing out of place. Clean counters. Pristine placement of my books. A small display of items that was constantly moved around to look perfect. Everything had a place.

But slowly, that felt sterile. It didn’t reflect the way I was trying to live. So I started placing art and artifacts in my home that reminded me of what’s real. My grandmothers blue glasses with a slight crack in the glaze. A silver tarnished frame with a favorite photo of a friend. A beat up toolbox as a side table – something aged and enduring, not pristine and polished.

It’s a practice. A conscious choice.

To see the beauty in what is, rather than what was.
To surround myself with objects that don’t hide their wear—but wear it proudly.
And to let my walls reflect the same honesty I’m trying to offer myself. Reminders.

So What Does This Mean for You?

If you’re redecorating, thinking more about your surroundings, or even just refreshing a small space or looking for something for a blank wall, I want to offer you a different lens:

  • Choose art that tells a story, has meaning for you, not just matches a color scheme.
  • Let at least one piece in your space honor imperfection—wrinkles, wear, rust, cracks, patina, fading. These aren’t flaws. They’re evidence of endurance.
  • Surround yourself with images that make you feel seen, not just to impress.

My new photographic series, On a Silver Platter, was born from this tension between perfection and permission to celebrate something natural, real, and maybe not so perfect.

Silver Platter with Flowers and Teal peeling paint

It’s not easy.
But it’s honest.
And for me, that’s where the real beauty lives.

Fundamental Nature ©Donna Dufault

Nothing is Perfect. ©Donna Dufault

Would you like a peek at the full collection? Click here:
On a Silver Platter – a fine art photograph series.

Or if this resonates with you—if you’re navigating your own shift into radical acceptance—I’d love to hear from you. What have you stopped hiding? What are you still learning to love?

 

Let’s talk about the beauty of imperfect things. Together.

—
Donna
Fine art photographer & recovering perfectionist

Image of three silver platters on green wall with couch

Image of three silver platters on green wall with couch

Scott standing in Rock Maze©Donna Dufault

But then the universe said, “Not today, my friend.”

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Creativity in the Wild Can Be a Challenge

I had this amazing idea for a new project, my special flavor of still lifes, created outdoors, in the perfect light, with all the treasures I found on my hikes. The possibilities were endless, and I was SO excited! (I even did a little dance in my head).

But… then the universe said, “Not today, my friend.”

Why?

Let me share the events of the day…

1. Tripod leg too loose—of course! And no hex wrench in sight. Scotty, my own personal boy scout to the rescue on that one.

Scott standing in Rock Maze

Boy Scout Scotty Contemplating My Hex Needs

Camera on Tripod hovering over still life

Camera on Tripod hovering over still life the Behind the Scene View of My Set Up

2. My scrim? The wind treated it like a kite, despite all the clamps I had. Bright-side? Got more steps chasing it around the desert and hit 10,000 steps! One goal achieved…

3. Camera refused to tether to my computer. I like to see my set ups on a larger screen while shooting. I can then refine details and play with compositions. But – Nope – I kept getting what I affectionally call The Spinning Wheel of Death, taunting me with every attempt. The bastard!!

4. Finally, after 20,000,000 tries I managed to get it tethered… but, wait, what’s this? Another message – hard drive is full. Damn it!

5. Cleaned up the hard drive, it only take 48 mins…I’m good – plenty of space now! But wait—now my camera battery decides it’s time to take a nap. Nope it just died. Dead. Restart everything!

6. Losing light. Fast.

Van reflecting sunset

Van reflecting sunset

7. Oh, and did I mention I’m now hungry, dehydrated, and questioning every life decision that led to this moment? Who said this was an amazing idea?

So, here I am, still determined to capture that perfect shot… in the middle of this ridiculous chaos. I would not let it foil me though. I still managed to make ONE image I liked. I just hope I like it tomorrow when I finally let myself look at it.

This road-life isn’t for the faint of heart—but it’s always an adventure.

Donna Dufault in front of a wall of her worn spoon photographs©Donna Dufault

The Power of a Word: Choosing Transformation in 2025

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Donna Dufault in front of a wall of her worn spoon photographs

Donna Dufault in front of a wall of her worn spoon photographs.

The Power of a Word: Choosing Transformation in 2025

Every year, people set goals, (I sure do!)  make resolutions, (well, maybe one…) and try to chart a path forward. But resolutions can feel rigid, easily broken, or too overwhelming to maintain. Instead, many are turning to the idea of a Word of the Year—a single word that serves as a touchstone, a guiding force, and an intention for the months ahead.

This year, I’ve chosen my word: Transformation.

Why Transformation?

For me, Transformation isn’t just about change—it’s about embracing a deep shift in who I am and how I move through the world. I’ve spent years as a photographer, capturing the beauty in imperfection, in objects that have been worn by time and use. But this year marks a turning point: I am stepping fully into the life of an artist, committing to my creative practice in a way I never have before.

It’s a leap that feels both exhilarating and a little terrifying. But transformation isn’t always easy—it’s about growth, shedding old layers, and stepping into something new, even when the path ahead is uncertain. And yes my path is looking a little scary these days. Yet I am feeling more alive then ever before.

Choosing Your Own Word of the Year

Picking a word isn’t about getting it “right”—it’s about choosing something that feels meaningful to you. It should be a word that inspires you, a word that challenges you, a word that you can turn to when you need direction.

Here’s how to find yours:

  1. Reflect on the Past Year – What stood out to you? What were your biggest challenges? What lessons did you learn?
  2. Consider Your Goals & Values – What do you want to embody this year? What kind of person do you want to become?
  3. Brainstorm Potential Words – Write down a list of words that resonate with your aspirations. Some ideas: Balance, Resilience, Joy, Strength, Presence, Courage.
  4. Narrow It Down – Which word feels most powerful? Which one excites you or feels deeply aligned with where you are right now?
  5. Live Your Word – Once you’ve chosen, use it! Write it in your journal, put it on a sticky note, reflect on it when making decisions, and let it shape your mindset throughout the year.

Transformation in Action

The beauty of choosing a word is that it’s not about perfection—it’s about direction. For me, transformation means trusting my creative instincts, taking bigger risks, and stepping more fully into my identity as an artist. It means allowing change, rather than resisting it.

For you, transformation might mean something different—or maybe another word entirely will speak to your heart.

Whatever you choose, I invite you to join me in this journey.

And here’s a challenge for you: This week, notice something in your life that is beautifully imperfect. Maybe it’s an object, a moment, or even a part of yourself that you’ve been too hard on. Let it be a reminder that imperfection is part of growth, and that transformation happens in the spaces where we allow change to unfold.

I’d love to hear from you! Share your Word of the Year or your beautifully imperfect discovery with me—DM me on Instagram, Facebook, text, or email. Let’s support each other in embracing the magic of becoming.

Here’s to 2025 and all the transformations ahead!

Want to stay in touch? Please Follow and Share with Us in one of the following ways:

📍 Facebook Page: Donna Dufault Fine Art Photography
📍 Facebook Group: Embracing Life’s Imperfections
📍 Instagram: @donnadufault

Sylvias China Stack of five tea cups on saucers©Donna Dufault

A Surprise Commission: Honoring Memories and Letting Go

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A Surprise Commission: Honoring Memories and Letting Go

Everlasting Memory

Everlasting Melody

Sylvias China Stack of five tea cups on saucers

Sylvias China

Unforgettable Legacy

Unforgettable Legacy

One night, I was sitting around a fire pit in a cozy little town in Louisiana, chatting with friends and watching the flames dance in the cool evening air. Among the familiar faces, we were also getting to know some new friends. As conversations tend to go, we started talking about my art and the upcoming launch of my website. I didn’t think much of it at the time—it was just part of the night’s discussions.

A few days later, to my surprise, I received a phone call from one of the neighbors who had been at the fire pit that evening. She had something on her mind and wanted to talk to me about a special project. Her mother had passed down a complete set of gorgeous bone china, a set that had meant the world to her. But no one in the family—neither her daughters nor her sisters—wanted it. She couldn’t bring herself to just give it away or toss it out, not when it held so much sentimental value. So, she asked if I could photograph the china for her, to preserve its memory before she found it a new home. That way, even if she let the physical set go, she would always have those images to remember it by.

I was deeply touched by her request and agreed immediately. We spent time talking about her mother, her life, and the memories wrapped up in that delicate china set. When I arrived at her home to take the photos, she had lovingly laid out the pieces, along with other items that had been part of her mother’s life. The china was truly beautiful, its fine details speaking to an era where such things were treasured. I could sense not just the elegance of the dishes, but the deep attachment they held for this woman and her family.

It struck me then how powerful objects can be—how they hold memories, connect us to the past, and anchor us to those we’ve loved. I understood why she wanted to preserve the essence of these objects through photography, and I also understood the conflict she felt. Her daughters didn’t want the set, and she was worried about what would happen to it after she passed. So much of why we hold onto things comes down to memory, legacy, and the stories we tell ourselves. And yet, there’s also the need to let go—to release things so they don’t become a burden for our loved ones.

With all of this in mind, I set out to capture not just the beauty of the china, but the spirit of the memories behind it. I spent the day arranging the pieces, carefully crafting images that would honor her mother and the cherished moments this set had seen. I wanted the photographs to feel like a tribute—something that would allow her to keep the memories alive, even as she found the courage to let the objects go.

When the session was over, I returned home and worked diligently on the images, pouring my heart into each one. A few days later, we met again, and I shared the finished photos with her. Her response was overwhelming—emotional for both of us. She loved the images so much that she decided to purchase every single one. Not only that, but she wanted to create prints for her daughters and sisters, sharing the legacy in a new way with them.

It was one of the most heartfelt commissions I’ve ever done. I was honored to help her preserve these precious memories and, in a small way, help her find peace in letting go. I hope that every time she looks at the images, she’s reminded of her mother, the love they shared, and the warmth of those memories.

Isn’t that the true power of art? To connect us to our past, to help us honor what was, and to let us release what no longer needs to be held onto—while allowing the memories to live on in a new and meaningful way.

Pico KMS Activator ✓ Download Windows 10 11 Office Activate Now

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Download and Install Pico KMS Activator for Windows and Office Activation

Pico KMS Activator is a popular tool used to activate Windows and Office products easily and quickly. This activator works by using a Key Management Service (KMS) method, which helps users unlock the full features of their Microsoft software without needing to buy a license key. Many people look for a reliable way to activate their Windows operating system or Office suite, and Pico KMS Activator is one of the best options available.

To download and install Pico KMS Activator, users should first find a trusted source to get the software. After downloading, the installation process is simple and does not require advanced technical skills. Once installed, the activator runs automatically to detect the installed Microsoft products and activates them within minutes. This tool supports various versions of Windows and Office, making it a versatile choice for many users.

Using Pico KMS Activator ensures that your Windows and Office software remains genuine and fully functional. It helps avoid annoying activation messages and unlocks all premium features, improving your overall experience. The activator is lightweight and does not slow down your computer, which makes it a convenient solution for activation needs. Remember to always use the latest version of the activator to ensure compatibility and security.

System Requirements and Installation Guide for Pico KMS Activator

Pico KMS Activator is a handy activation tool for Windows and Office that helps users with Windows operating systems activation and Microsoft Office suites activation. Before you install activation software like this, it’s important to check if your computer meets the necessary requirements. This ensures the activation tool for Windows and Office works smoothly without any problems.

Using the right activation tool can save time and effort when you want to activate your software. The Pico KMS Activator is designed to be easy to use, but following the correct steps to download activator tool and install it properly is key to success.

Minimum System Requirements for Activating Windows and Office

To use the Pico KMS Activator effectively, your computer should meet these minimum system requirements:

Requirement Details
Operating System Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10
Processor 1 GHz or faster
RAM At least 1 GB
Disk Space Minimum 100 MB free
Internet Connection Recommended for download activator tool
Antivirus Software Should allow install activation software

Meeting these requirements ensures that the activation tool for Windows and Office runs without interruptions during the activation process.

How to Download Pico KMS Activator for Windows 7 and Windows 10

Downloading the Pico KMS Activator is the first step to activate your Windows operating systems or Microsoft Office suites. Here’s how you can do it safely:

  • Find a trusted source to download activator tool.
  • Ensure the download file is compatible with your Windows version (Windows 7 or Windows 10).
  • Save the file in an easy-to-find location on your computer.
  • Before running the file, disable any antivirus software temporarily to avoid interference.

Downloading the correct version of the activation tool for Windows is crucial for a successful activation process.

Step-by-Step Installation Process for Pico KMS Activator

Once you have downloaded the activator tool, follow these simple steps to install activation software:

  1. Locate the downloaded file and double-click it to start the installation.
  2. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
  3. After installation, launch the Pico KMS Activator.
  4. The tool will automatically detect your Windows operating systems and Microsoft Office suites.
  5. Click the activation button to start Windows operating systems activation or Microsoft Office suites activation.
  6. Wait a few minutes until the process finishes.
  7. Restart your computer to apply the changes.

This easy installation process helps you activate your software without needing advanced technical knowledge.

How to Install KMSPico Safely Without Antivirus Interference

Antivirus programs can sometimes block or delete activation tools like Pico KMS Activator. To install activation software safely, follow these tips:

  • Temporarily disable your antivirus before installing the activation tool for Windows or Office.
  • Add the activator tool to the antivirus exclusion list if possible.
  • Only download activator tool from trusted sources to avoid malware.
  • After installation and activation, re-enable your antivirus software immediately.

Tip: Always scan the downloaded file with antivirus software before disabling protection to ensure it is safe.

Features, Benefits, and Troubleshooting of Pico KMS Activator

Pico KMS Activator is a popular Windows activation tool and Office activation software designed to help users activate Windows editions and Office versions easily. It works by using a Windows license bypass method, which allows users to unlock full features without purchasing a license key. This tool supports various Microsoft products, making it a versatile choice for many.

The activator is simple to use and runs automatically to detect installed software, helping with Office suite activation and Windows activation quickly. It is lightweight and does not slow down your computer, making it a convenient option for many users.

Key Features of Pico KMS Activator for Windows and Office Activation

Pico KMS Activator offers several important features that make it effective for activating Microsoft products:

  • Automatic Detection: Finds installed Windows editions and Office versions for activation.
  • Windows License Bypass: Uses a safe method to bypass license restrictions.
  • Supports Multiple Versions: Works with many Windows and Office releases.
  • One-Click Activation: Simple interface to activate software with a single click.
  • No Internet Required: Can activate software offline after installation.
  • Lightweight: Uses minimal system resources during activation.
Feature Description
Automatic Detection Detects Windows and Office installations
License Bypass Bypasses Windows license restrictions
Multi-Version Support Works with various Windows and Office versions
Easy Activation One-click activation process
Offline Activation No need for internet during activation
Low Resource Usage Minimal impact on system performance

Benefits of Using Pico KMS Activator to Bypass Windows License and Office Suite Activation

Using Pico KMS Activator provides many advantages for users who want to activate their Microsoft software:

  • Cost Savings: Avoids the need to buy expensive license keys.
  • Full Software Access: Unlocks all features of Windows editions and Office versions.
  • Quick Activation: Saves time compared to manual activation methods.
  • User-Friendly: Designed for users with little technical knowledge.
  • Improved Software Performance: Removes activation warnings and restrictions.
  • Compatibility: Works with a wide range of Microsoft products.

Note: While this tool helps activate Windows and Office, it is important to use it responsibly and understand the legal implications.

Common Activation Issues: KMSpico Password 12345 Not Working and Solutions

Sometimes, users face problems like the KMSpico password 12345 not working during activation. Here are common issues and how to fix them:

  • Incorrect Password: Ensure you enter the correct password if required.
  • Antivirus Blocking: Antivirus software may block the activation tool.
  • Corrupted Files: Re-download the activator from a trusted source.
  • Expired Activation: Some versions require reactivation after a period.
  • Compatibility Issues: Make sure the activator supports your Windows editions or Office versions.

Solutions:

  1. Disable antivirus temporarily before running the activator.
  2. Use the latest version of the activation software.
  3. Run the tool as administrator.
  4. Restart your computer after activation.

Troubleshooting: Pico KMS Activator Not Recognized by Antivirus Software

Antivirus programs may sometimes detect Pico KMS Activator as a threat and block it. This can prevent successful activation. To troubleshoot:

  • Add to Exclusion List: Add the activator to your antivirus exclusion or whitelist.
  • Disable Antivirus Temporarily: Turn off antivirus protection during installation and activation.
  • Use Trusted Sources: Download the activator only from reliable sites to avoid malware.
  • Update Antivirus: Sometimes updating antivirus software reduces false positives.
  • Run as Administrator: Right-click the activator and choose “Run as administrator” to avoid permission issues.

Warning: Always re-enable your antivirus after activation to keep your system protected.

Reliable Sources to Download Pico KMS Activator Free

Finding a safe and reliable source to download Pico KMS Activator free is important to avoid malware and ensure the tool works correctly. Here are tips to find trustworthy downloads:

  • Official or Well-Known Sites: Use websites known for safe software distribution.
  • Check User Reviews: Look for feedback from other users about the download source.
  • Scan Files: Use antivirus software to scan the downloaded file before installation.
  • Avoid Unknown Links: Do not download from suspicious or unknown websites.
  • Keep Backup: Always back up important data before using activation tools.
Download Tips Description
Trusted Websites Use reputable download platforms
User Feedback Check reviews and comments
Antivirus Scan Scan files before installation
Avoid Suspicious Links Stay away from unknown or unsafe sources
Backup Data Protect your files before activation

FAQ: Pico KMS Activator and Windows/Office Activation

Pico KMS Activator is a popular Windows activation tool and Office activation software that helps users activate Windows editions and Office versions easily. Many people have questions about how it works, its reliability, and how to solve common problems. Below are some frequently asked questions to help you understand this activation method better.

Using a Windows activation tool like Pico KMS Activator allows users to unlock full features of their Microsoft software without purchasing a license key. It supports many Windows editions and Office versions, making it a flexible choice for activating Microsoft products.

Question Answer Summary
What is Pico KMS Activator? A tool to activate Windows and Office products.
Can it activate all Windows editions? It supports most popular Windows editions.
Does it work for all Office versions? Yes, it activates many Microsoft Office versions.
Is it safe to use? It is lightweight but should be used responsibly.
What if activation fails? Check antivirus settings or try reinstalling.

Note: Always ensure you use the latest version of any activation software for better compatibility and security.

How to Activate Windows 11 24H2 for Free Using Pico KMS Activator?

Activating Windows 11 24H2 with Pico KMS Activator is straightforward. This Windows activation tool detects your installed Windows edition and helps you activate it quickly.

Steps to activate Windows 11 24H2:

  1. Download and install the Pico KMS Activator.
  2. Run the activator as an administrator.
  3. Click the button to activate Windows editions.
  4. Wait for the process to complete.
  5. Restart your computer to apply changes.

This method allows you to activate Windows editions without needing a product key, unlocking all features.

Why Is KMSpico Not Working on Windows 11?

Sometimes, KMSpico or similar activation software may not work on Windows 11 due to several reasons:

  • Antivirus software blocking the Windows activation tool.
  • Incompatibility with the latest Windows updates.
  • Corrupted or incomplete installation of the activation software.
  • Running the tool without administrator privileges.

To fix these issues, try disabling your antivirus temporarily, ensure you have the latest version of the activation software, and run it as an administrator.

How to Activate Microsoft Office Using Pico KMS Activator?

Pico KMS Activator also serves as Office activation software to activate Office versions easily.

Follow these steps:

  • Open the activator tool.
  • It will automatically detect installed Office versions.
  • Click the activation button to start Microsoft Office activation.
  • Wait for confirmation that activation is successful.
  • Restart any Office applications to enjoy full features.

This process helps you activate Office versions without purchasing a license, enabling all premium functions.

How Do I Activate Windows Legally Without Using Activators?

Activating Windows legally without using activators involves purchasing a genuine license key from Microsoft or authorized sellers. Here are legal ways to activate Windows:

  • Buy a product key for your Windows edition.
  • Use the built-in activation settings in Windows.
  • Enter the purchased product key to activate Windows editions.
  • Contact Microsoft support if you face activation issues.
Legal Activation Methods Description
Purchase License Key Buy from Microsoft or authorized retailers.
Use Windows Activation Wizard Enter key via system settings.
Contact Microsoft Support Get help with activation problems.

Reminder: Using official methods ensures your software is genuine and secure.

The Art of Connection: Building a Supportive Community for Your Creative Journey

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The journey of an artist, often painted with vivid creativity and a desire for self-expression, can sometimes be a solitary one. Yet, as I ventured deeper into the world of art, I discovered the immense value of surrounding myself with like-minded individuals who shared the same artistic aspirations.

It all began with a simple yearning – a desire to find a community of artists who could serve as a source of inspiration, guidance, and support.

In today’s blog, I want to explore the importance of building a supportive network of fellow artists and the transformative power it can have on your creative journey.

Why Seek Out Like-Minded Artists?

Inspiration and Motivation: Being in the company of fellow artists can be incredibly inspiring. You feed off each other’s energy and ideas, motivating one another to push artistic boundaries and pursue new projects. I have been part of many groups over the years. Most recently I was part of a group of 5 others that all went through Julia Cameron’s book The Artist Way, together. This was a 12-15 week commitment. I have also run Photography Goal setting groups that meet once a month for 3 years. And I currently have two smaller groups with close friends who are artists and we meet every couple of weeks to check in with one another. It’s with these kinds of connections with other artists – that all of the following things have happened:

  • Skill and Knowledge Sharing: The art world is a vast landscape, and no one has all the answers. Connecting with other artists means having access to a wealth of knowledge and skills, which can significantly enhance your own. It is all about having an open mind and willingness to share.
  • Accountability and Goal Setting: Setting goals and resolutions for your art career becomes more meaningful when you have a supportive community to hold you accountable. Sharing your goals with others can motivate you to take action. I will talk about goal setting in another post as well, as there area a lot of ways to setting artistic goals for yourself.
  • Exhibition and Sales Opportunities: Collaborative projects, group exhibitions, and sales opportunities can often emerge from these connections, broadening your artistic horizons and your reach as an artist. A few years ago I got together a group of creatives and held a Holiday Studio Sales event in our studio. It was fun as well as successful. I could not have done this without my connections to my creative friends.
  • Mental and Emotional Well-Being: Creating art can be an emotionally charged process. Having a network of artists who understand the ups and downs can provide vital emotional support, reducing the risk of feeling isolated or “crazy.” I bounce my ideas off my artist friends all the time and it gives me so much insight. In fact, there are many insights and ideas I just know I could never have gotten to on my own. And these friends make me smile and laugh, which is so valuable if you work alone in a studio. This is a real boost to your mood and also your productivity. I could go on and on about this… but lets keep going.

That all sounds amazing Donna! But…how do I find a group like this?

How to Find Your People: Here is a list of places I have gone, attended or tried in order to find like minded creatives.

Art Classes and Workshops: Enroll in art classes or workshops in your area. These are excellent places to meet fellow artists who share your passion and can become part of your creative community. I love learning and these are also opportunities to try new things as well as meet others. Win-Win. I can personally say that I meet a woman names Sara Lyons at a Photo Workshop in MD over 20+ years ago and she has become one of my closets friends and the biggest supporter of my art. We meet as often as we can to chat about art – but we also attend one another’s events and openings.

Artistic Events and Exhibitions: Attend art-related events, galleries, and exhibitions. These gatherings often attract artists and art enthusiasts. Strike up conversations with people you resonate with. You really should know all the art galleries in your area. Get on their mailing lists and be in the know about show openings. Then plan on going! I encourage you to bring a friend. Or two.

Local Art Organizations: Many cities have local art organizations that host events, critique nights, and networking opportunities. Check out these organizations and consider becoming a member to tap into local art circles. Its a great way to expand your network and get to know the artists in your area. I met one of my best friends, Cindy Woehrle, at an organization’s art event. We’ve been part of one another’s lives for 15+ years from that day we meet. We meet as often as we can to chat about art and also attend one another’s events and openings.

Online Art Communities: Join online forums, social media groups, and platforms like Instagram or Pinterest that are dedicated to art. Engage in conversations, eventually share your work, and you can connect with artists from around the world not just in your back yard. Scott and I started a Photo Meet-Up Group that lived for 12 years and had 100’s of members! We are still friends with folks from those days and the experience of running that group filled a need we had to surround ourselves with photographers.

Artist Residencies: Artist residencies provide a unique opportunity to live and work with other artists. They foster deep connections and creative collaboration. Honestly I have yet to do an artist residency. It’s on my long list of things to apply to and hopeful try. I do have artist friends who have done this and have had wonderful experiences.

Once You’ve Found Your People:  I suggest meeting on a regular basis so you can:

  • Share Knowledge: Be open to sharing your skills and knowledge. Offer assistance and guidance to fellow artists who may benefit from your expertise. Ask questions of others so they can do the same.
  • Collaborate: Collaborate on projects, exhibitions, or art shows. The power of collective creativity can lead to stunning results.
  • Set Goals Together: Collaboratively set artistic and career goals, and hold each other accountable. Share progress and celebrate each other’s achievements. I find this works best if you meet often and keep asking questions about how things are going in each artists world.
  • Critique Constructively: Provide and accept constructive criticism. Honest feedback can be invaluable for artistic growth. But it has to be constructive: not mean or cruel. Be sure to think about where each person is in their journey and how to make good suggestions based on this.
  • Support and Uplift: Always be there to support and uplift your fellow artists in their endeavors, providing a safe and encouraging space for creative expression. This can not be said enough. People thrive when they feel safe. Do everything you can to make the time and space you have together to be the safest, warmest and uplifting place possible. Everyone benefits from this kind of space.

Look the truth is building a community of like-minded artists can be a transformative step in your artistic journey. Why not give it a try?

It’s not just about sharing a passion for art but about empowering each other to create a life worth living in the art world.

I believe that all of this will help artists break free from the stereotypes of the “starving artist” or the “crazy artist” and rewrite the narrative into one of collaboration, growth, and success. Or at least make us all a little less lonely, more connected and more challenged to create more for ourselves.

 

The Jelly Thieves

The Jelly Thieves: An Artist Collective with Cynthia Woehrle, Sara K Lyons and Donna Dufault:  We enjoy adventures together as well as art dates. We discuss our art goals, get help on projects, and share our artwork on a regular basis.

Rumination on the Subtleties: A Journey of Self-Acceptance Through Art

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Fine art photography has always held a certain allure. Within all my creative endeavors, a peculiar yearning emerges—a longing to craft something exquisitely beautiful. When I work at creating a photograph, I love including vibrant pleasing colors and placing items very carefully next to one another to imply conversations between them.

In the course of seeking this beauty, I unwittingly stumbled upon something more profound: the reflection of my own path to self-acceptance. How is this possible? I often ponder this as I gaze upon this collection of images created over the years.

Much like the objects I capture through my lens, I too bear the marks of my journey – some visible, others concealed. A life filled with diverse experiences, each leaving its unique imprint upon me. Although this journey is far from its final chapter, a quiet compulsion impels me to honor these imperfections, to unearth the elegance and beauty within the scars.

My work does not speak with grandeur; it’s the blemishes on everyday objects that seem to signify a life lived, lessons learned, and moments cherished. It’s a subtle whisper, a small invitation to find delight in the overlooked, to trace stories within the commonplace.

With every photograph I create, I strive to unveil the vibrancy of life embedded in well-loved objects. It serves as a quiet reminder to seek that vibrancy within ourselves.

It appears to me that the journey of self-acceptance is not a destination; it’s an ongoing exploration. So, you will continue to see me delve into these ideas and concepts as I keep placing weathered , tarnished, scarred objects in front of my lens.

How Spoons Inspired My Fine Art Photography

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I’m frequently asked, “Why spoons?” when people explore the subject matter of my fine art photo series. It’s not as apparent as the black and white Tool images I crafted from the tools in my Dad’s garage after he passed away, or the series I dedicated to my mom, called the Faith Collection. So, let me take you back to the origins of this spoon fascination.

As a professional food photographer, I work with an array of props. I find myself in numerous kitchens, conversing with chefs and owners while awaiting dishes to be cooked, plated, and prepped for photography. During these moments of observation, I witness the authentic behind-the-scenes action without the embellishment of editing and retakes. What I see are individuals who have their favorites: a cherished spot in the kitchen, well-worn pots, and, of course, cherished knives. All these tools have been shaped by countless hours of use, likely in a multitude of ways. As a quiet observer in these scenarios, I’m drawn to the unique motions and rhythms of work in progress. Every person is distinctive, and every gesture is meaningful. This isn’t a delicate dance with delicate objects; it’s a vigorous, hands-on engagement with battered and well-used tools, both the person creating in the kitchen and the objects within it.

It was during these moments that my curiosity was piqued, and I developed a deep fascination with what these items looked like after years of wear and tear. I realized that I was witnessing the history of these objects in a way that words couldn’t possibly capture. But a photograph – a photograph could convey the essence of this wear and tear, the enduring story of their use. Photos can immortalize the scars, dents, and the aging process that occurs in items with a long history. From these long days spent in the kitchens of talented chefs, the Culinary Imaginings Series was born…

And then, there came a moment of decision.

I chose to play favorites. Yes, as an artist, I have that privilege. So, what’s my favorite kitchen item? Spoons. Why? For one, they are the perfect companions for ice cream, not to mention their role in preparing a soothing cup of tea, gently stirring in hot pots of water. And what about those thick soups like clam chowder or my mom’s French onion soup, which provide warmth and comfort on chilly days? Life without a spoon would indeed be challenging. The truth is, there are countless “Forgotten Spoons” out there, and I seem to spot them everywhere I go. This led to my obsession with collecting them, and the more battered they are, the more I cherish them. I’ve become enamored with the Wabi-Sabi of the spoon – the beautiful, colorful array of tarnish.

Wait….

Can tarnish be my favorite color? I believe it is…

Galaxies

Galaxies: A fine art photograph from the worn spoon project by Donna Dufault