I began journaling when I began to travel. My first trip was to Bermuda, that same year I spent the summer in Israel. I was just 16 and thought if I didn't write it down I would forget what I saw and how I felt at the time.
My journaling has changed over the years. With the onset of computers and blogs there are now other avenues to communicate one's thoughts, ideas, views, etc.
I say this with the deepest conviction: Today's younger population will not know the feel of a fountain pen to fine letter paper like Cranes. I have collected fountain pens for several years but have since stopped. Email has replaced handwritten letters. Still today there is nothing more appreciated, or cherished, than a handwritten letter. Especially in matters of the heart.
During my 32 years as a social worker with the State of New Jersey, I often sought refuge with my photography, capturing the joys of life instead of the heartaches. Winter’s snow upon a barn and field, the color of fire in the leaves as fall gives way to winter, old rusty objects the people ignored. These are my solace, my refuge, my joys.
Through my photography and paintings, I am also a storyteller.
· The painting Always is based on a poem I wrote for my great love whom I lost to cancer.
· Financial Times is dedicated to my brother who was in the financial industry when he passed away in 2012.
· Pathways is a tribute to all those who have crossed my path, often times redirecting me to some wonderful world full of knowledge, and inspiration.
· Ariel is about perspective of the world, I absolutely love looking down at the mountains ranges, farmlands, bodies of water and let us not forget the clouds.
· Oceanic Series is inspired by life by the sea.
· The Fiori Series is about whimsical dancing with avant garde.
Always
Financial Times
To learn more about my artistic inspirations, see About Lynn Amsterdam.