I’m thrilled to announce some significant news: I am now the official photographer for renowned glass artist, Craig Mitchell Smith. This collaboration presents an immense opportunity for me to venture into new creative avenues.
Craig’s talent in glasswork is unparalleled, making him a standout in the world of art.
Our journey began a couple of years ago when friends introduced us to Craig and his husband, Rick. At that time, he had an exhibition at Dow Gardens in Midland, Michigan. With the exhibit scheduled to end the following week, my wife, Cindee and I felt an immediate urge to experience it before it concluded. And it was nothing short of extraordinary—a testament to the beauty of Craig’s craftsmanship.
Earlier this year, we had the privilege of house sitting for Craig and Rick, ensuring their home and garden near the picturesque Lake Michigan, close to Charlevoix, remained in top condition during their travels. Their yard showcased an impressive collection of Craig’s art. On a whim, I decided to photograph these exquisite pieces. Many of you might have glimpsed them on my Facebook page.
Then, this summer, Craig reached out with an intriguing proposition. He has an upcoming show at the Museum of Shenandoah Valley in Winchester, VA. To my astonishment, Craig wanted me to be his official photographer for this exhibition! Despite identifying primarily as an artist and not having a significant reputation in photography, Craig believed that I captured his work’s essence better than any other photographer he’d collaborated with. I was deeply honored by such a profound compliment.
Over recent months, I’ve made several visits to Craig and Rick, documenting Craig’s latest creations. This experience has undoubtedly enhanced my photography skills, and I eagerly anticipate where this journey might lead me next.
Today marked another milestone. I submitted a collection of photographs to the Museum of Shenandoah Valley. The adventure doesn’t stop here; I’ll be traveling to Winchester next year to capture the exhibition’s setup and its final display.
While there’s another exciting project on the horizon, it’s a tad early to spill the beans. Stay tuned for that revelation in a future post!