Praise for E L E M E N T S

"As an artist, art educator, and arts administrator for most of my life, I am all too familiar with the battle between the makers of images and the writers of words. Neither wants their work to be seen as subservient to the other – no images in support of your words, or no words in support of your images. This has been a battle as long as there have been creators.

On rare occasions I find a book that has managed to strike a balance between the images and the words and this book is one of those very rare occasions. Both image and word are equal and able to stand on their own. Combined, they are all that more powerful with each managing to move the impact to a greater level.

ELEMENTS represents a true collaboration between the two artists and one that has a very contemporary twist as they collaborate from opposite sides of the country. That the two of them have managed to fully collaborate and to produce such an exquisite piece of art is all the more miraculous. Every decision in terms of image location, page design and layout, print quality—every decision—has been made with the total concept in mind, and I have rarely been as impressed by a printed piece. I am a great fan!"

~ Dow Benedict, Artist and Dean of The College of Arts and Humanities, Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, West Virginia

"ELEMENTS has the feel of Holy—a book of psalms. It is also a celebration of the senses. The pictures and words touch the sensory of the brain allowing me to get goosebumps from the tender snow clinging to the fragrant lavender. I can hear my footfall on the damp, crunchy forest floor and smell the wet leaves and earth as they absorb and store the needed nourishment. I can taste and feel the salty air in the beautiful ocean scenes. I love the crimson sunset. I would like to strip my walls and hang these images! It is so amazing that each photo and verse showcases the minutiae as well as the vastness of what beauty is. Oh God, that our lives could do that with each daily snapshot."

~ Marjie Miller, author and poet, Pismo Beach, California

"ELEMENTS” captures the essence of the human experience: Awe. Despite our troubles, our foibles, and our pains, humanity is surrounded by breathtaking beauty. When you open this book, it is that beauty that strikes you. The photography is stunning. Snow clinging desperately to a leaf. Sunlight filtering through the canopy of a coastal forest. Brook water trickling over a mossy log. Fronds of a fern unfolding in the morning light. With each page, readers take a deep breath and are filled with awe.

The true experience of the book is tied to the marriage of images and verse. Inspired by the depth of nature, the poets’ lines flow in reflection, growing to an awareness of humanity’s humble status in the scope of this majesty. When I close the book, I do so amazed by creation around me, knowing fully well the precarious condition of my existence in this beauty, and yet knowing by my being there I am also linked to the beauty of that infinite love. In short, I am in awe, as you will be when you embrace this experience."

~ Chris, Language Arts Educator, Seattle, Washington

"Elements is a boldly intimate, sensitively vulnerable work of art! This is also a dialogue within and without; a mirror, and more than a mirror—a work to sit with and reflect upon. It unfolds a personal exploration that is open to the mystery of Creator, creation, and the soul. Thank you!"

~Nita, San Luis Obispo, California

"Absolutely magnificent! The poetry reaches out and touches your heart, making you feel connected with the authors, while the photography, with so much detail, transports you to another world. Both poetry and photography alike captivate your senses and keep you wanting more."

~ Celena, Long Beach, California

"The fortunate reader of ELEMENTS is encouraged to slow down and to take in each page as they are treated to a visual and lyrical journey through the seasons of life. Each page is unique in its mood as the authors use color, lighting and beautiful words to illuminate and focus on the opportunities, challenges, blessings and choices made when one is confronted with the majesty of creation. Beautiful book!"

~ Gwynne, San Luis Obispo, California

"Beautifully styled book—incredible photography and wonderful poetry. This is a great book and now I have to get a coffee table just for ELEMENTS the book! Thank you."

~ Debi, Albany, California