The current exhibit in the Gilroy City Hall Gallery is by photographer Rachelle Lee. An Idaho native who relocated to Gilroy with her husband in 2004, she was quick to tell me that she loves Gilroy for its small town feeling, the lovely views and most of all the friendly people. The exhibit featuring portraits of children will be on view through March and April.
Rachelle was introduced to photography by her father who snapped pictures as a hobby. When she was young, they would enjoy photography excursions together. In high school she studied photography and learned to develop photos in the darkroom. She also pursued photography in college, although her degree is in math education. After her children, now 12 and 10, were born she decided to get back to the art she always loved. Having originally used film cameras and developed in the darkroom, she had to relearn the art with digital cameras. Although she likes film and enjoys developing her own photos, she finds digital rewarding for its instant feedback.
Personable, friendly and motivated, Rachelle successfully honed her skills and five years ago established a portrait photography business. Specializing in family portraits, she loves to capture children on film.
“I love to photograph children, especially ages 2, 3 and 4,” she said. “They aren’t self conscious yet and aren’t afraid to smile. By the time they are eight or nine its a little harder to get them to relax and be spontaneous. Newborns are really fun because you don’t have to work hard to put them at ease. Newborns are usually quiet and serene, giving me the opportunity for more artistic photos.”
Rachelle takes newborn photos in her home studio but likes to go into the field, using natural light for family and child portraits.
Inspired by her surroundings, Rachelle also looks to the work of other artists for inspiration. She hopes people who view her portraits will see a love of life.
“Moments are short and fleeting,” she passionately remarked. “Portraits are a way to remember moments that pass by quickly.”
Rachelle and her dad have been working on a fine art project that they hope to compile into a book. The have each photographed 26 found objects that people have discarded. The 52 images will be a statement of conservation as well as appreciation of the beauty found in ordinary objects. Sounds like an interesting exhibit that we can anticipate seeing in the future.
In keeping with a focus on children, the City of Gilroy Recreation Department, Gilroy Garlic Festival Association and Gilroy Rotary Club will present the annual Kids Discover Arts Saturday, March 2, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Wheeler Community Center, 250 W. Sixth St., Gilroy.
Kids Discover Arts is a free, hands-on event, which allows children to experience all mediums of the visual arts through 20 different art workshops, set in a festival-type atmosphere, and led by volunteer artisans from our community. Because this event is free of charge, children from all economic backgrounds have the opportunity to participate, and it also provides a wonderful venue for local artists and volunteers to “give back” and share their talents with our local youth.
Among the workshops included in this year’s event are Suzuki Violin with Lori Franke, Watercolor with JoAnne Robinson, Scrimshaw with Ann Howe, Cookie Creations with Michelle Bundros, Rainbow Wire Sculpture with Margi Bryson and Caricature Drawing by Kenny Davidson.
Participants must be accompanied by an adult and are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing appropriate for painting and other art activities.
This event is not specifically funded by the City of Gilroy’s general fund budget, and would not be possible without the sponsorship of businesses and individuals. In addition to the Gilroy Garlic Festival Association and Gilroy Rotary Club, sponsors include Exchange Club of Gilroy, Black Bear Diner West, Inc., Dr. Martin and Rhoda Bress, Christopher Ranch, Richard Gallagher, D.D.S., Gilroy J.A.C.L., Gilroy Senior Craft Store, Gilroy Veterinary Hospital, Michael E. McKeever, D.D.S., Gary Nishimura, D.D.S., Recology South Valley, Rotary Club of Gilroy – South County Sunrise, Dr. Philip and Mrs. Joan Buchanan and Mrs. Trudie Conrotto. If you are interested in making a monetary contribution or would like to volunteer for next year’s event contact Cathy Mirelez, City of Gilroy Recreation Department.
