A Thousand Words
I want to share with you, dear readers, what may prove to be the most tangible measure that I have done a bit of what I set out two years ago to do: to bring together and share with whomever would come, words and images--of where I live, of where my heart is. And I have to confess, when this uncertain trek began, I knew much less than now of both of these. It has been a difficult and wonderful two years.
Three weeks ago, and only a week before the deadline for submitting proposals, I learned that this year, the Appalachian Studies Association annual conference is going to be at Radford University, where I am now teaching. Not having been to any of these meetings, I had no idea of the scholarly tone of the event; but I did read in the announcement that it would include, among many other scholarly topics, poetry, writing and photography with Appalachian-relevant subject matter. And so I submitted a proposal and abstract.
It has been accepted. And not only that, but instead of the 15 minute slot I'd hoped for, I'll be sharing an hour with a painter who will (if I'm understanding this correctly) be talking about the creative process in the southern mountains, illustrated with some of his paintings. As a companion segment, I will be presenting "an illustrated personal reflection on place and belonging. This vignette of contemporary mountain living will focus on the everyday beauties of the quiet Blue Ridge valley that has become our home. This short photo-narrative will be drawn both from personal writing in this exploration of place and from digital images from my collection--most from within a short walk of our 130-year-old farmhouse."
I am delighted. And terrified. But at least the conference is not until March.
Sometimes you must step out in faith that when the day comes, you'll be able to deliver what you've promised-- even when that seems to be more than you're capable of. This is one of those times. I'll be happy for your companionship as I begin to put my thoughts (and images) together. I am very thankful for this opportunity to share, and thank you, readers, for giving me reason to say and show over the past two years what will soon become the substance of this illustrated memoir--"a case study in seeking, finding and celebrating a mid-life discovery of place."
Comments
I'm glad you're going to have a chance to introduce a different group of people to your stuff. Your blog pictures are consistently the best I have found out there.
Posted by: Trey | October 18, 2004 7:31 AM
Fred, you are just the fellow to do such a presentation. Be yourself as you prepare your remarks, and be yourself as you deliver them, and you'll knock people's socks off, just as you do ours!
Posted by: Tom Montag | October 18, 2004 7:57 AM
Congrats Fred. This will be an exciting project to work on thru the Winter months. I'm sure you will deliver what you've promised and more, and look forward to hearing how it develops over the next few months.
p.s. The comments now take you to a new page rather than opening a new small window. I have the java script to make it work the old way if needed.
Posted by: fletch | October 18, 2004 8:06 AM
Wunderbar! Your audience is in for a certain treat and I envy them.
Posted by: Cop Car | October 18, 2004 9:18 AM
This is great news. Be sure to give us plenty of advance notice on the date & location.
Posted by: Carl | October 18, 2004 9:52 AM
This is wonderful, earned and well-deserving. You'll do fine, and I only wish we could all be there to cheer you on.
Congratulations, Fred.
Posted by: susan | October 18, 2004 10:13 AM
That is great news. I am very happy for and proud of you. Don't sweat it. Just be who you are and do what you do.
lgh
Posted by: Larry Hunsucker | October 18, 2004 11:58 AM
Wow! Congrats!
Posted by: Julie | October 18, 2004 12:16 PM
Congratulations! I think you are the best man for the job! Your photos are stories in themselves. Your photos are what inspired me to take a photocourse; I only hope someday to be as good as you!
Posted by: Michele | October 18, 2004 12:31 PM
Congratulations!
It is indeed rare to meet somebody as talented as well as humble as you are.
Your works are fantastic. Take the faith of all your readers to your conference and be assured that you will be as well received there as you are here.
Take Care
Michael
Posted by: Michael | October 18, 2004 1:28 PM
Congratulations from me, too. Not many people can photograph, photoshop and write -- all at the same time like you do.
Posted by: Terry2 | October 18, 2004 8:17 PM
I echo all the above comments.......From seeing your photos and reading your writings I know you will be successful in this new venture!
Posted by: Dottie | October 19, 2004 12:04 AM
All I can do is echo the huzzahs above. I do hope you'll use this space to flesh out your thoughts - I'm already envious of those who'll be in the audience.
Posted by: Siona | October 19, 2004 3:52 AM
This is very cool. Congratulations!
Posted by: Peter | October 19, 2004 4:29 AM
Well-deserved recognition comes when it will. You have certainly earned it. Your photos have shown increasing skill and your writing continues to entertain and enlighten us.
Enjoy your time in the spotlight. I am sure there are many more to come. Just speak from your heart and let your words be heard. You have discovered many valuable things during your two year journey and it's time to share them with a wider audience.
Gretchen and I are very happy for you.
Posted by: David St Lawrence | October 19, 2004 9:58 PM
Good for you Fred - Your pictures are remarkable and i join in others who know that you have a special gift that will spread out and be seen as such a gift.
You are an artist
Sorry I have been such a poor visitor recently but you know how bad it can be when your net connection dies as mine has.
Posted by: Robert Paterson | October 20, 2004 10:17 AM