Karen Jensen, Photographer

Some New Photos

2012-01-03T19:16:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted any photographs in some time now. So I thought I'd start by posting a few of the shots I've taken over winter break.

Brackenridge Park San Antonio 12/18/11

Woodlawn Lake San Antonio 12/20/11


San Antonio Riverwalk 12/31/11

Brackenridge Park San Antonio 1/3/12

A New Family

2011-04-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Last week I had the honor of being present for the formal adoption of my friend Christopher Rexinger.

It was a wonderful, inspiring day. There are some days that I am just so grateful for eyes to see and a camera to record. Because life? It. Is. Glorious.

Challenge Day Four

2011-04-03T19:11:00.000-07:00

Day 04 -- A picture of my night

Thirty Day Challenge--Day Three

2011-04-01T17:47:00.000-07:00

Day 3 -- A picture of the cast of your favorite show.

This is difficult because I'm something of a television junky. It is also difficult because I'm not sure I have a favorite show right now. There are several that I enjoy, but many of my favorite shows have recently been cancelled.

I really enjoyed "The Big C" on Showtime this fall. Laura Linney is remarkable.

And maybe this is the time of the smart blond for me because I love "The Closer," too. And, of course, it is in its last season.

And the cancelled show I will miss the most?

That would have to be "Caprica." Oh, I am sorry this did not survive beyond the first season.

Thirty Day Challenge--Day Two

2011-03-31T09:07:00.000-07:00

Day 2--A picture of you and the one person you have been close with the longest.

Old Friends 2009

This is me with my dear friend, Michelle Tarantino. We have known each other since 1981.

In May of 1981*, I was working as a cocktail waitress at a bar called "Faces," and Michelle picked me up. True story. She was in San Antonio for training as a medic. After she went home to Omaha, I went to live at the Grand Canyon for the summer. When I was done there, I took a bus to Omaha and moved in to Michelle's studio apartment. We were together as a couple for several years, and even had a holy union. But we were young, volatile, and somewhat stupid. We weren't all that good together.

We did one thing very well, though. We were great companions and friends. We still are. I love Michelle dearly, I count on her for support, and I know she can count on me. What more could I want?

*disclaimer: I think it was May. I think it was 1981. Perhaps Michelle has a better memory.

Thirty Day Challenge--Day One

2011-03-30T18:56:00.000-07:00

I stole this challenge from my friend Kelly.

I've actually been thinking about doing a 365 challenge. This seems like a way to see if such a thing is possible.

Day 01--A picture of you with fifteen statements about you.

Day 02 – A picture of you and the person you have been close with for the longest.
Day 03 – A picture of the cast from your favorite show.
Day 04 – A picture of your night.
Day 05 – A picture of your favorite memory.
Day 06 – A picture of a person you’d love to trade places with for a day.
Day 07 – A picture of your most treasured item.
Day 08 – A picture that makes you laugh.
Day 09 – A picture of the person who has gotten you through the most.
Day 10 – A picture of the person you do the most messed up things with.
Day 11 – A picture of something you hate.
Day 12 – A picture of something you love.
Day 13 – A picture of your favorite band or artist.
Day 14 – A picture of someone you could never imagine your life without.
Day 15 – A picture of something you want to do before you die.
Day 16 – A picture of someone who inspires you.
Day 17 – A picture of something that has made a huge impact on your life recently.
Day 18 – A picture of your biggest insecurity.
Day 19 – A picture of you when you were little.
Day 20 – A picture of somewhere you’d love to travel.
Day 21 – A picture of something you wish you could forget.
Day 22 – A picture of something you wish you were better at.
Day 23 – A picture of your favorite book.
Day 24 – A picture of something you wish you could change.
Day 25 – A picture of your day.
Day 26 – A picture of something that means a lot to you.
Day 27 – A picture of yourself and a family member.
Day 28 – A picture of something you’re afraid of.
Day 29 – A picture that can always make you smile.
Day 30 – A picture of someone you miss.

That Awkward Stage

2011-03-29T14:16:00.000-07:00

I have written before about the redbud tree--specifically, about the redbud I planted for my mother.

I find, however, that besides being a sweet memory, the redbud continues to teach me. And I thought I'd share some of my thoughts with you.

The Cercis, or the redbud, is a small deciduous tree or shrub that has several varieties. These grow in the Eastern United States, the South, in Mexico, in Oklahoma, and in Texas. Of course, with cross planting it is difficult to know if the redbud growing in your neighborhood is a native Texas tree or some other variety.

The nickname "redbud" is an odd one, as I have never seen a redbud with red buds. They are many shades, from light pink to dark fuchsia, but there are no red flowers.

Nevertheless, I cannot see a redbud without thinking of A. E. Housman: "And since to look at things in bloom / fifty springs are little room / about the woodlands I will go / to see the cherry hung with snow." It is a reminder about the fleeting nature of beauty and the way it feeds our souls.

The flowers of the redbud are the first hint of Spring in South Texas. The different trees bloom at different times, but none bloom more than a few weeks at most. They are glorious, but the glory is short lived. The flowers are gone almost overnight--just as they appeared.

After the blooming, the trees simply have smallish green leaves for the remainder of the spring and summer, losing the leaves without much ceremony in the fall. The do have small seedpods in the fall and winter, and usually these are gone by the spring.

This year, however, some of the trees on campus have kept their seed pods. And so yesterday, as I was walking in from the parking lot, I saw our redbuds in an awkward stage. They are beginning to lose their flowers and gain their leaves, but they still have last year's seed pods.

This awkward and beautiful but not stage of growth reminds me of my own. I am growing and changing--I may have lost some of that excitement of new growth as I move to a different season, but there is still new growth, even if it isn't flowers. And the old stuff is still hanging around. But even the "old stuff," while not obviously growing and alive, is capable of growth.

From those old pods can spring new trees. New trees that produce beautiful flowers that inspire poets and artists to go about the woodlands.

And it is good.

The Silos on the Mission Reach

2011-03-27T19:37:00.000-07:00

Dog Sitting

2011-03-26T19:16:00.001-07:00

This weekend I did a little dog sitting for my sister, who has a couple of rescue special-needs dachshunds.

Sweet puppies.

Birds, birds, birds!

2011-03-25T21:53:00.000-07:00

Tonight Wren and I went for a walk along the river. We saw some wonderful flora, which I will share with you another time. Tonight, my friends, is for the birders.

I must tell you that I saw several birds I could not capture with the camera--including many field sparrows (who are notoriously shy) and a commerant--but here are some birdies I was able to photograph.

First, I ran across this lovely couple--they seem to be having a discussion at this moment.

Much further down the river we ran into a mother and child mallard.

We also saw a lovely little killdeer. I believe they don't actually kill any deer, but don't quote me on it.

We do have one mystery bird. We could not find an exact match for him (her). Some kind of heron, yes. We think perhaps a night heron? But I'm just not sure. At any rate, I was quite taken with this bird.

There is a prize for the first person to identify this heron correctly!

Finally, we saw this egret and his reflection. What a lovely animal!

It was a great evening on the river, we are both a bit sore from the walk, but we must "suffer" for our art, no? NO!

High Noon

2011-03-24T20:50:00.001-07:00

Repurposing

2011-03-23T20:00:00.000-07:00

Super Moon and the Confessions of a Trespasser

2011-03-22T20:24:00.000-07:00

Well, the night of the super moon was a big one for me. I wanted to get "THE" picture. I didn't really, so if you're looking for it, you'll have to go elsewhere. But I did do some things to get that picture that kind of surprised me.

I don't know if you've met me. I'm a bit of a coward. I am afraid to go downstairs without a hand rail, lest I fall. I do not take the exciting rides at the amusement parks. I couldn't make myself drive on mountain roads. So this story? This one is good.

I had a hard time thinking of just the place to go to see the moon, so I ended up back at the Japanese Gardens.

There is a small observation at the gardens that has been closed off for some reason. It could be because the bridge is not safe.

It could just be that much of the garden is still under construction. But whatever the reason, I decided that I NEEDED to get over to the observation deck.

So, I climbed around a fence

And moved a sign out of the way

Inched my way across that bridge, and stood on the tower waiting for the moon to rise.

Eventually, it occurred to me that I might get caught, and I did not have the cash to post bail, so I came back.
But you've got to hand it to me, friends, I have courage in the search for beauty.

As I said, I didn't get the picture I wanted. But I did get to see the amazing, huge red moon. I did get to feel that rush of love and wonder. And I got to conquer some fears.

It was a good night.

Teaching Argument

2011-03-21T18:30:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm starting to teach argument in my classes. This part of the semester always brings out the romantic in me. It could be watching women read the "Ain't I a Woman" speech, or maybe it's talking about classical rhetoric, or maybe it's talking about Rachel Carson, Martin Luther King, Jr., and even Hitler--people who changed the world, for better or worse, by the force of their writing. By the end of the day I've given four lectures about the power and the responsibility rhetoric--of "good [people] speaking [and writing] well." I know my students think I'm a bit silly about this, but this is why I teach. Because there is nothing so powerful as the right person with the right message at the right time. Our words can change the world.

Redbud for Mama

2011-03-19T19:28:00.000-07:00

The summer before my mother died, we were talking about her wishes--what we should do with her body. She wanted to be cremated--no surprise to me--and to have her ashes put with those of our beloved cats and dogs who had predeceased her. "I don't know," she said, "plant a redbud or something. I love redbuds."

That fall it occurred to me that if mama loved redbuds so danged much that she'd want to be planted with one, perhaps I should plant one for her while she was still alive.

She died a week before the first redbuds bloomed.

That year our tree had one tiny little blossom. The next year, three. And so on. It seems I planted the world's most reluctant redbud. It doesn't help that every year I talk about fertilizing and forget to do it.

Anyway, this year every little branch has some blossoms on it. I wouldn't say the tree is covered, but it looks much less like Charlie Brown's redbud. And so, tonight as I was going out for my evening photo shoot, I took a picture of Mama's redbud for her. This is for you, Mama.

The Japanese Garden

2011-03-19T10:30:00.000-07:00

Last night I decided to go out to enjoy the evening light. I went to the Japanese Garden at Brakenridge Park. I haven't been there in some time, and I really enjoyed getting to see the garden again.

The first picture of the tower was how it looked when I got to the garden, the second, how it looked as I was leaving.

I loved this wisteria growing right beside the waterfall.

I am so grateful for my camera. In many ways, I see taking photographs as the way I meditate--the way I connect with the spirit. It is certainly the way I celebrate beauty in everything I see. What an amazing day yesterday was. What an amazing life.

San Juan Capistrano in the morning

2011-03-18T09:56:00.000-07:00

This morning I decided to hit the road early and get some morning photos at San Juan.

The colors in the sky were glorious today. I enjoyed the contrast of the cloud colors with the aged stones and adobe in the mission. I especially love this little statue in front of the chapel.

The ruins around the various missions move me more than I can say. I love to wander among them and think of the lives of the people who lived behind these ruined walls. It is a deep and spiritual connection with the past for me.

These buildings are always closed to the public. I assume they are in use by the parish that holds religious services in the chapel.

This Thrills Me

2011-03-17T21:12:00.001-07:00

Peace

2011-03-15T19:25:00.000-07:00

Healing the World

2011-03-14T18:36:00.000-07:00

I think the only way we can heal this world is to love each other and send out all of the positive energy and light we can spare.

memories

2011-03-13T20:55:00.000-07:00

I've been going over some of my photos from the day I saw the baby ridley sea turtles released.

Homeward Bound

Swimming

Many Babies

Volunteer

Almost There

Tobin Hill Art Fair

2011-03-12T18:58:00.000-08:00

Night Tent

This is a photo of my tent last night at the Second Friday Art Walk. Doesn't the tent look cool with the lights Chris provided?

Today I went to Tobin Hills Art Fair and had such a wonderful time! I met many wonderful people--even had a few sit and talk with me for awhile! I sold a good number of photos, got several new names for my mailing list, and just had a wonderful time hanging out with artists on a glorious spring day! I am grateful for the opportunity to do this work.

And Feather Canyons Everywhere

I am about to go to bed early with thoughts of love and peace. And I'm sending much of that love to Japan. Blessings on you all.

Second Friday

2011-03-11T20:20:00.000-08:00

I am posting this quickly because I promised I'd post every day during lent. I'm sore and sleepy after being out at First Friday. I didn't sell anything there, but I met quite a few lovely people.

Since it was an evening show, my friend Chris brought over his theatrical lights. Boy, they worked. In fact, from a distance I thought the tent looked magical. I'll post pictures in the morning--right now it's off to bed. I've got the show tomorrow, which promises to be busier! It's good to be busy selling pictures and talking about art to people!

Good night, sweet friends.

Shaking it Off

2011-03-10T15:40:00.000-08:00

February was a tough month for me. I found myself slogging deeper and deeper in the muck of my sadness. I told myself that I just had to walk through the feelings. It is the anniversary of my mother's death, the end of winter, the country is going in a direction that scares me, etc. It's appropriate to feel sad.

While I think it is sometimes right to walk through pain, it occurred to me today--as the result of an encouraging nudge from my spirit brother, Wren-- that I can choose to be happy. I can remember all of the things I am grateful for. I can focus on beauty and love rather than all that is unhappy in this world. This does not make the bad things go away. But it makes it possible for me to do what I can to change the world. If I am focused on the negative, I cannot create what is good. Thanks for the reminder, Wren.

Not a Wren

Lenten Discipline

2011-03-09T14:14:00.000-08:00

One of Three's Laura has promised to blog every day during Lent as a way to slow down-- to practice being and writing and seeing as only she can. I am really looking forward to reading what she has to say. But my life could use a little discipline as well, so I am going to join her.

For the next forty days, I'll write a little something everyday. And, since this is a photography blog, I'll try to include a picture or two as well.

Spring Comes to UTSA

Most of the buildings at the main campus of UTSA were built in the sixties and seventies, so the school has that lovely institutional feel. But even the boxy buildings and lack of color cannot stop Spring from coming. Life will have its way.

Redbud

Spring is Sprung!

2011-03-09T08:34:00.001-08:00

The First Mountain Laurel of Spring

March Newsletter

2011-03-04T10:38:00.000-08:00

What I Learned in February (and the beginning of March)

City Cat

Hello, friends! I figure it is time I got around to writing a new newsletter.

February was a good month for me in many ways—especially in terms of learning about myself and my art. Early in the month, I met with a group called “A Gathering of Photographers.” This group was led by two award-winning photographers, one of whom had a photo grace the cover of National Geographic Magazine, and one who used to be the Photography editor for Texas Highways. We all brought flash drives with ten photos on them for evaluation. As you can imagine, I was petrified!

I was the fourth photographer in the group to present her photos. Right away I noticed how different my work was from the other photographers. There were no wedding shots, no advertisements, no happy, shiny people. The leaders of the group noticed the difference, too. “What is it you want to do with your photographs?”

Gazebo in Southtown

“I want to take beautiful photographs that make you think,” I replied.

“No,” he insisted, “What do you want to do?”

I really had to think about this question. And then I remembered my dream. “I want to travel around Texas and the Southwest and take pictures and write about the places and people I see. I want to work for something like Texas Highways.

“Now that makes sense,” the man replied.

I learned a lot that night. Mostly, I learned to pay attention to my dreams. And the advice they gave me about my photos? Always carry a camera, and “if it’s worth one shot, it’s worth a dozen.” That is sage advice that I am striving to follow; indeed, all of the photos on this month’s newsletter were taken because I had my camera with me at an opportune moment.

Crepe Myrtle at Sunset Ridge

This month I’ll be at the Marketplace at Old Town Helotes on Saturday March 5^th, and the Tobin Hill Arts Fair on Saturday March 12^th. I also have some photos hanging at The Foundry Coffee and Community.

I hope to see some of you at these venues. And don’t forget, if you see me wandering around with a camera bag slung over my shoulder, be sure to stop me and say hi!

This month’s winner of a 5x7 matted to 8x10 is Nina Rangel. Nina, email me with your postal address and I’ll get your photo to you!

Downtown

2011-02-19T06:46:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I took a bus downtown, walked around, and walked back home. Along the way, I took some pictures.

Of course, no trip downtown is complete without at least looking at the Riverwalk from a bridge.

Barges Heading Out

It is rare to see a river barge that is empty. I can only surmise that these two are beginning their shifts.

Puppets by the Alamo

There are dozens of shops near the Alamo that sell a variety of goods. If you're lucky, you'll find some of the state legislators hanging around (just kidding).

War Paint

I love this fellow's face paint. He was kind enough to let me take his picture as he leaned against a wall near Commerce Street.

On St. Mary's street near the public art gallery, I came across this bit of public art.

One

I also met this man, who allowed me to take his picture. But just one.

617 St. Mary's Ave

For this, I have no words.

San Antonio, the city of a million charms.

Thursday Evening

2011-02-18T09:59:00.000-08:00

Moon Over Mulberry Ave.

I got in the car last night to drive over to the Foundry for the San Antonio Visual Artists' opening. And it hit me. Why not walk? It's a nice evening. So I headed out down Mulberry Ave, and I was hit with this view. Sometimes, all you can say to the universe is, Thank You.

Tuesday Evening

2011-02-16T13:37:00.000-08:00

Gazebo in Southtown

I saw this pretty little Gazebo while driving along South Presa yesterevening. I liked the way the remaining sun reflected from the tin roof.

Call it Jazz

2011-02-07T18:22:00.000-08:00

This is a photo of the remarkable bass player Joël Dilley.

Sunday Afternoon

2011-02-01T11:54:00.000-08:00

This Sunday I had the opportunity to do a photo shoot with my friend and colleague Dixie Shaw-Tillmon and her beautiful family. We met at the Trinity University Library, where we took some photos in the spiral staircase.

Then we hit the walking trail, which now has baskets for frisbee golf. I guess everything old is new again!

It was a gorgeous afternoon, if a little warm, and we had a good time walking and talking together.

Aren't they pretty?

2011: The Year of Love

2010-12-31T15:11:00.000-08:00

I have always thought of love in terms of that which is outside me--in terms of the people and the animals I love. In terms of food, and writing, and the art I love. But the other day, as I was reading, I came upon that truism that I love to hate: you can only understand and experience love to the degree that you love yourself.

Oh, dear god, how I hate to hear that.

But I think that the breakdown/spiritual awakening I experienced last year has prepared me to deal with this truth.

This is the year I learn to love.

I will become a better lover. Of myself. Of life. Of beauty. Of animals. Of friends. And even romantically, should that happen. Romance, however, is not my goal. Love is.

Love, light, and laughter to all of you in 2010!

Karen

Ring Out the Old

2010-12-29T18:34:00.000-08:00

A Few Quiet Moments
McNay Art Institute
San Antonio, TX

Like many people, perhaps most, I find the end of the year the perfect time for reflection--for looking back on the past year and looking forward to the next. And like most people, I had the habit of making resolutions each year.

Of course, I'd never keep a resolution. I'd never lose the 70 pounds, become a regular at the gym, write for thirty minutes a day, quit eating sugar, or any of the other promises I'd make to myself. I imagine I could have won money betting against myself. I often used my failure to punish myself. To shame myself. To feel less worthy. All in all, this resolution business was not working for me.

Loyalty Beyond Reason

Corpus Christi, TX

Like this dog who has long survived his stone master but continues to look to him for guidance, I kept expecting this cycle of unrealistic promises and shame to lead me to become a happier more fulfilled human being.

Last year, I broke that cycle. I decided instead to name a theme for the year. 2010, I told myself, was the year of community. I announced my resolution on my previous blog, and I decided that all I would do was keep that goal in mind. Somehow, I would find the tools I needed to grow my community.

Some surprising things came of this, almost immediately. I had recently bought a good camera, and I decided to begin taking photographs. Almost immediately, I started taking myself and my photos seriously. I don't know where this came from. A few months earlier, I would have thought it hubris. But in a very short time, I went from being a regular gal who likes to take photographs to a professional photographer. Just. Like. That.

And having a business has led me to reach out to people I might not normally reach out to. It has led me to go places I wouldn't normally go, to talk to strangers, to ask for email addresses, to insert myself into the conversation. The last few months, I have worked purposefully building an email list. Building a community of people who like images.

Karen Jensen, photographer

Photograph by Tanith Korravai

And I've worked on building community in other ways. I have allowed myself to reach out to people, risked feeling foolish, have worked to be honest and vulnerable with people. I have not built a community of hundreds of people by being vulnerable, but there is a small, strong group of women and men that I can rely upon on a deep level. And there are many others who care, and about whom I care. That feels like community to me.

Some of the lessons of this year have been hard. I've had to let go of a couple relationships that were not healthy in order to make room in my heart, my head, my life for the communities that encourage growth, art, happiness, even serenity. I've never been one to give up on relationships, so this one was hard. But you know what? I managed. And it worked. I've never felt so free and so alive.

Serenity

McNay Art Institute

San Antonio, TX

2010? It was an awesome year! In many ways, it was the best year of my life. And I find myself eager to find out what is to come.

Denis Dutton: A Darwinian theory of beauty

2010-12-28T11:59:00.000-08:00

South Side of San Antonio

2010-12-23T16:35:00.000-08:00

Sunday afternoon, I decided to head out to the river near Espada Damn. It's a wonderful place to just be.

Little Birds at Espada Damn

I saw any number of birds that day, but couldn't get close enough for any great shots. I did get to spend a good deal of time watching these little guys fishing for bugs and such in the waters just below the damn.

Gordon Sez Don't Make Me Mad

I found this little man in the grass along the walk. How cute is he? If any of you know who this character really is, I'd love to know. But for now, I shall call him Gordon.

Later, I took off on an aimless drive and found myself on the road to Floresville.

Lot-A-Parts

It was a good day.

This week was a good one. I celebrated my 52nd birthday, solstice, and the birthday of a friend. Now it's almost Christmas.

I wish you all wonderful, magical days. And may you never want for parts.

Love, Light, and Laughter,

Karen

Something of a Digression, but still about art

2010-12-13T12:47:00.000-08:00

I love art in all its forms. I find it inspiring to go to see a musician, to go to an art showing, to attend a poetry reading. On December 3rd, I had the distinct pleasure of going to a reading held by two of my former professors--both lovely people and exceptional writers.

The beautiful and delightful Wendy Barker is more than my former professor. She was one of my mentors. I remember like it was yesterday, entering her office during my first semester of grad school. I had read her wonderful book about Emily Dickinson, Lunacy of Light, and I knew I wanted to study with her. My focus was rhetoric, not literature, but somehow I made the decision to attend UTSA at least in part so that I could study with Wendy. At any rate, I entered her office. I had never met her--was in none of her classes--and I was a frightened little rabbit (there is no one quite so unsure of herself as a first semester graduate student). I sat down facing her, I introduced myself ("we have some mutual friends. . ." ) and then I said, in a quavering voice, "I love Emily Dickinson."

"Oh my dear," she said, reaching across the space between us to put her hand upon my knee, "of course you do."

I was eventually able to take an independent study with Wendy while acting as her unofficial teaching assistant in an undergraduate capstone course in Whitman and Dickinson. That semester I went to Cambridge and Amherst during spring break to study the Dickinson archives. It was the highlight of my academic career.

Wendy's poetry, of course, is of even greater value than her scholarship, if such a thing is possible. She writes with a precise instrument--like a scalpel at times-- not unlike the precision of a Dickinson, a Frost.

Steven Kellman, on the other hand, scared me to death! I did take a class with him, and even went to a movie with him once, but oh my god, Don't ask me to make conversation! He'll know me for the phony I am! While Barker's brilliance is often obscured by her sweet voice and nurturing presence, Dr. Kellman's intellect is blinding. Even Wendy (his wife, for Pete's sake) confesses to being intimidated! But he doesn't fool me any more. Brilliant? Like steel. Like a diamond. ~~And just as hard.~~ In truth, sweet and funny. He started out the evening with a bit of doggerel about literature -- just the thing to put all of us at ease. By the time he moved on to his breathtaking prose and poems, we knew better. He's brilliant alright, but we aren't askeered of him (much).

I do not have access to any of the readings done that night, but I will leave you with a poem I found on Wendy's website.

TRASH

“Trash,” he said, as we walked the line

between our almost-country properties.

Again I pointed, trees and shrubs

whose names I didn’t know, but “trash,”

he said again. Anything not oak.

That neighbor knew three kinds of trees:

live, pin, and Spanish oak. The rest should go.

And now I’ve lived here twenty years

I know how chainsaws take out everything

that isn’t oak, not just the junipers

that choke the other plants nearby, but also

Texas buckeyes, magenta blooming in

the spring, redbuds, huisachillo, sweet acacia.

Mexican persimmon’s bark blends velvet

grays and silky browns, its rounded leaves

bright yellow-green before the purple fruit

draws birds that nest on into June—

buntings and the wrens above the grasses,

gramas and the bluestems. November,

the seed heads in waves of burgundy, of red.

Our city council said they’d leave the trees

when clearing for the city hall. But like

that neighbor years ago, they meant

the oaks. Now they’ve called a meeting.

Oak wilt has hit the neighborhood, and

oaks are what we’re left with. Too much

construction, trimming of the trees, their

wounds not treated. The virus travels

through the maze of connecting roots.

And once a tree’s infected, it’s trash.

-----------------
Love, Light, and laughter,
Karen

What Does it Mean to be an Artist?

2010-12-05T19:26:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking a lot lately about the nature of art. Even more, I've been thinking about what it means to think of yourself as an artist.

I have always loved taking photographs, and every once in awhile I'd take a photo that I really liked. I even thought that with enough time and the right equipment and training, I might make a good photographer. Well, in December of 2008, I called my own bluff and bought myself a good camera. I started to take it seriously right away, and by March of 2009, I had taken a photograph I thought was quite fine.

Passages

I was talking with my friend Patty about this photo tonight on my way home from the art show in Schertz. When I looked at this photo I thought, "This is good. This is art." And from that moment on, I thought of myself as an artist. Sometimes I could barely say the word aloud. It's so nervy, isn't it--to call yourself an artist?

So, I got my camera in December 2008. In March 2009, I took my first really good photograph. I continued to really work at taking as many pictures as I could, wherever I could until I first started showing my photographs professionally in June of 2010. In July of 2010, I joined my first artists' association. In November of 2010, I went to my first art show, registered a business name, opened a business checking account, and began selling my work online.

So now I stand (sit) before you, an artist. Tonight I got home from the show and entered some more names on my list. I was thrilled to see that my mailing list now numbers 75 people. That's something of a milestone, don't you think? And tonight I'm holding my December drawing, so people may get the photograph by Christmas. "Holding a drawing" sounds rather grand compared to the reality. Actually, I just enter a code and "ask" my spreadsheet program to pick a random name. Tonight's first name? Patty Cooper. My dear friend. Well, I love the idea of giving Patty a photograph, but that is not the purpose of this drawing. So, next?

I am pleased to announce that Rosalie Dill has won a matted copy of Passages. Rosalie, please send me your "snail mail" address so I may send you a copy.

And don't worry about Patty. I'm sending/handing her a copy of the Lady of Guadalupe.

It's all good.

Love, Light, and Laughter,

Karen

If you try sometimes, you'll find. . .

2010-12-03T09:21:00.000-08:00

Air-conditioned Comfort

I need an extended time off.

I need to get out and take pictures. I need sleep. I need to read a novel or four.

Curve

Thankfully, Today is the last day of classes. Now finals. Then Christmas break.

I am looking forward to this weekend--even as I whine about fatigue. I find meeting with people and talking about art gives me a jolt of something better than a bold coffee! (Those of you who know me know that there is little on earth I would classify as better than coffee.)

Saturday I'll be at Windows on Main, and Sunday I'll be at Schertz Market Dayz. Patty Cooper will be with me both days, and Irene Pierce will have her own space at both events. Come and see us!

WINDOWS ON MAIN
CHRISTMAS MARKET
Saturday, December 4th 10 am to 5 pm
Intersection of N. Main @ W. Mistletoe (1 Block North of Woodlawn)

SCHERTZ MARKET DAYZ
Sunday December 5th 10am to 5pm
Schertz Civic Center
1400 Schertz Parkway

Love, Light, and Laughter,
Karen

I Send Two Sunsets

2010-12-01T15:36:00.000-08:00

When you sign up for Google Groups, as I did for my Photography Newsletter, they ask for a favorite quote to place in your profile. I chose this poem by Emily Dickinson.

I send Two Sunsets --

Day and I -- in competition ran --
I finished Two -- and several Stars --
While He -- was making One --

His own was ampler -- but as I
Was saying to a friend --
Mine -- is the more convenient
To Carry in the Hand --

Dickinson wrote this poem, attached some flowers to it, and sent it to her beloved sister-in-law. It was most likely delivered by one of Susan Dickinson's children, who traveled a well-worn path between the two houses carrying notes and trinkets of affection from one woman to the other.

This sweet poem is my artist's statement of purpose.

An artist makes a poor copy of the beauty, the pain, the joy, the squalor of our world. But she is drawn to create by the very force that created that beauty in the first place. And her effort, though comparatively much less grand, is something that can be saved and shared with others. It is a way to make connections.

I am looking forward to this weekend's shows. I think I may meet two of my blogger/facebook friends on Saturday! That is always a good thing.

love, light, and laughter,
Karen

We Haven't Even Got to the Pretty Part

2010-11-28T16:44:00.000-08:00

Today I had coffee with an old friend who told me a story about my mother that was new to me. My friend had never been to a ballet before, so one year, Mom and I decided to take her to see Nutcracker.

In the party scene, as everyone is dancing around the Christmas tree, my friend reached over and whispered to my mother, "Oh, Mary, it's so pretty."

Mama patted her on the arm and said, "Just you wait, honey. We haven't even got to the pretty part yet."

Mom's 78th Birthday

I loved hearing that story about my mom--especially at this time in my life when change seems to be the greatest constant. Change and love. I can feel that surety coming straight from my mother. I almost feel her patting my arm. You think this is great? You ain't seen nothing yet!

I've made some major changes that I want to tell you about. Tuesday the 24th was my final day at Nueva Street Gallery. As I've said many times, I am extremely grateful for the opportunity I was given to show my photos at Susan Carlin Art Studio and at Nueva Street. It was a gas!

For now, you can always find me online, and I will, of course, keep you informed about any shows or events where you can see me or my photographs face-to-face.

I've begun work on my latest series, My San Antonio. I have lived in and loved San Antonio for most of my life, and it seems only right that I should show you all what I see in its streets and through its people.

You'll be hearing from me soon. Don't forget to mark your calendars for Windows on Main on Saturday the 4th and Schertz Market Dayz on Sunday the 5th!

Love, Light, and Laughter,
Karen

Black Friday November 26

2010-11-26T07:25:00.000-08:00

I hope all of my friends had a wonderful Thanksgiving celebration yesterday. I know I did! I had dinner with a good friend and her family, and then we all headed out to Enchanted Rock for a walk.

A cold front was just coming in, so when we left San Antonio it was in the mid to high 70's and when we got to the rock it was 45 degrees! Thankfully, we knew what was happening, so we brought sweaters and jackets!

One wonderful thing about the weather change was watching all of the changing cloud formations over the course of the afternoon. It was amazing and often breathtaking.

Okay, you are wondering about the title of this post. I don't actually know anyone who likes to stand in line at the Targets and Best Buys of the world to get those sale items. So, I want to encourage you to spend your time with your families and your money on creative artisans and small businesses. So, here are some ideas.

Today and tomorrow the Esperanza Peace and Justice center is having its 21st annual Mercado de Paz. They feature arts from local artists and people from Mexico and Central America. It is a wonderful way to find just the right gift for the person of discernment.

Also, I'd like to share with you some of my favorites:

Irene Pierce is a jeweler in San Antonio who works in metals. Her work is breathtaking.

Patty Cooper is a painter in San Antonio whose loving nature is evident in everything she does--especially her paintings.

Michelle Tarantino is one of my oldest and dearest friends. She makes sweet and whimsical jewelry--I wear a lot of her pieces.

Speaking of whimsical, Gary Rith is a potter who makes the most wonderful tea pots and coffee cups. I'm drinking my coffee out of one of his creations right now.

And, of course, I encourage you to buy photographs from me. You can order photos from this blog, and you can order merchandise like mugs and journals on my little shop here.

Whatever you do for the holidays, I hope yours are as blessed as mine.

Love, Light, and Laughter,

Karen
kjensenphotos@gmail.com

A Slow, Sweet Day November 24th

2010-11-23T12:22:00.000-08:00

It has been a slow day at Nueva Street Gallery today, which has afforded me the opportunity to talk to a few art lovers, listen to some good music, and play with some photographs--always a good thing.

Here's my little corner at the gallery--I am so grateful to have my photographs here. La Villita is, for those of you who don't know, a little arts village in the heart of downtown San Antonio. Just upstairs from the river and right down the street from the Alamo. It is the perfect place for any artist to show her wares. And Nueva Street Gallery is a wonderful space, full of light and a variety of contemporary art by Texas artists.

In this shot:

Jewelry by Constance Seiler, pottery by J'Nil Jackson, and photograph by moi.

This week I printed a poster of my photograph "Here Comes the Sunflower." (See above). It is the only photograph in my portfolio that I've done post-production work on--the only photo I've "doctored." Blown up to 20x30 it has a painterly quality that makes me happy. I may just have to hang this one in my living room!

Native Spirit

Here's my latest art photo from Mission San Juan Capistrano--you can find it in my "Missions of San Antonio" collection. I thought it was an appropriate photograph for this Thanksgiving week.

I hope everybody's having a good Tuesday! And I hope your Thanksgiving is full of joy.

Love, Light, and Laughter,
Karen
kjensenphotos@gmail.com

Blanco Market Day November 20

2010-11-21T08:26:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I got up early, packed up the car, and headed down the road to Blanco, Texas, with my good friend Patty Cooper.

Patty Setting up the Tent

We set up a tent on the yard at the beautiful, old Blanco Courthouse for Market Day. While we were there, we met a bunch of neat people and ate some good barbecue.

Karen at the End of the Day

photo by Patty Cooper

Unfortunately, we didn't sell much art. On the way home, Patty and I talked about this. We came to the conclusion that craft fairs, as much fun as they are, are not the right venue for our work.

I have decided that I will be looking for fairs that focus more on fine art, rather than craft.

Patty and I are still planning to do the Windows on Main show in Monte Vista on Saturday December 4th and the Shertz Market Dayz on Sunday December 5th. And I am still going to Blanco on Saturday December 11th. Stay tuned for more information about these shows as the dates approach.

Last night, as it was the full moon and I had several wonderful new people added to the mailing list, I did the drawing for the November gift of art. Congratulations Lorri Mach! You will be receiving a 5x7 photograph matted to 8x10.

November Field

I took this shot on the way home from the Market Day, and it seems like the perfect November gift. So, Lorri Mach, please send me your "snail mail" address, and I'll send this photo along to you.

Please check out Patty Cooper's wonderful art. I'm looking for the day that she releases some new music. As a singer/songwriter, Patty is a triple threat!

Love, Light, and Laughter to you all!

Karen

Welcome!

2010-07-10T13:03:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my Online Portfolio. Within these pages are some of the photographs I have taken in the last year or so. Please make yourself at home. If you have any questions, feel free to email me.

Come Visit My New Online Store
And, of course, you can still order anything you see here by clicking on the "Buy Now" button underneath an image, or through email.