Day: March 10, 2017

The residents of the Mansion were intent on Maria’s talk about India. I loved the depth in their faces and their focus.

I took the first shot with my new Petzval Lomography lens from Russia today, my first encounter with Russian glass, and a lens build exactly the way it was built in 1840. With this lens – I have a LOT to learn, you have to get close and center the shot, insert the right Aperture plate, and adjust the Bokeh, the blur in the back to enhance the portrait.

The gear mechanism that runs the manual focus is very tricky, it will take a lot of patience and a lot of practice. It’s going to New York City with me tomorrow.

I didn’t quite get it, but came close, and I got the idea. I’m going to love this lens if I survive it. They say it is not for beginners, and that is sure true, I’ll either master it or fall apart along the way. I got one or two shots that I like and am beginning to feel it will be possible to get some wonderful portraits with this lens. But maybe not for awhile.

I love the lens, it is quite striking and original.

I took my first Pinhole Photograph today, Bernie, our UPS route driver and a good friend and animal lover, came by with my B&H Photo deliver, I also got my Petzval 58 lens, wow, it will take a great deal of work to learn how to use this lens, essential the same since 1840.

It has a gear mechanism to focus and plates to insert for every Aperture setting. Far from the digital experience. The pinhole mount is simpler but generally requires a tripod, or a very high ISO. I did like this shot taken with the pinhole, dreamy and evocative, a very special look.

I have a lot to learn, but am pleased with the initial effort. The Petzval, made in Russia with Russian glass, is quite a shock, a beautiful lens, I can’t wait to figure it out. A completely different experience for me. I think I’ll take it to New York City tomorrow and see if I can get a portrait of Robin.

The Mansion Wall Project is underway, we are looking for bare walls and replacing them with art and images that are pleasant and interesting. The first wall to fill was Connie’s, a lovely painting of a local stream by artist Marilyn Brooks. It hangs right across from Connie’s chair, where she crochets and knits, thanks to your needles, patterns and yarn.

Connie read several of your letters to Red and I this afternoon, she carefully pores over each one, she has just caught up with the Christmas cards, she said. We have chosen a painting for Barb’s room next, and thanks to those of you who have been in touch with me about some images and photos you wish to send up.

I think there are about 10 rooms with bare wells, some of the residents have their own paintings and images. A very good friend out West is sending a beautiful goat photograph up for Herman, I think he will love it. She is printing it out. Some of the resident’s families have brought art, so I think we’ll be able to fill the walls up.

The Mansion needs a boombox, they have been receiving CD’s and love music, but have no way to play it. If there is an old or used boombox that works, and you can spare it, that would be a lovely gift: 11 S. Union Street, Cambridge, N.Y., 12816. Please don’t go out and buy a new one, if no one has one, I’ll root around here, I’m sure I can come up with one.

Five or six people have approached me wanting some art, we’ll figure it out. You have done a great deal for these people, your better angels are dancing at the ball.

Your imaginative and thoughtful gifts have sparked a kind of Renaissance at the Mansion. The zentangle on the upper left is especially popular, it’s a relaxing, easy way to drawn special patterns. Your art supplies have inspired many of the residents to start drawing and painting, they are excited about participating in an art show in April, their work will be displayed in the Mansion, the winners will be awarded prizes.

Some of the first pieces are up on the board in the Activity Room.

If you wish to send some simple and inexpensive art supplies – crayons, pencils, watercolor kits and pads – that would be appreciated. I’m going to try and  round up some materials from local artists as well, please don’t spent too much money. Julie Smith, the Activity Director at the Mansion, will distribute the materials. You can write her c/o Julie Smith, The Mansion, 11 S. Union Street, Cambridge, N.Y., 12816.

You have touched so many lives in such affirming and healthy ways, much gratitude to you. The Army of Good is gathering strength and purpose, we will help carry one another over the sometimes bumpy road. Nothing but good.

Several of the Mansion residents asked if Red could sleep over sometimes (nobody asked me if I could sleep over) and I said sure, if the staff can work it out. Connie says she has first crack at Red sleeping in her room. We’ll see how this plays out.

He is completely at ease in the Mansion now, and I have the sense the acupuncture he is receiving is heightening his intuitiveness. A very special day at the Mansion today and thanks for lighting the creative spark, which still burns brightly in that building.