Picture of the Week #370 "Soccer in Marken" Marken, The Netherlands 1966 Signed & Stamped

When I was directing TV commercials back in the 60's I was in Amsterdam Holland meeting with Joop Geesink who had created a small theme park called "Dollywood". He made puppets for film and TV that were used for stop motion animated photography as well as having this park. This was PRE Disneyland. He was a legend in motion picture production. When I had some time off I went to visit the picturesque town of Volendam and then a ferry out to the island of Marken. Once there I encountered these boys in the school yard playing soccer. As I was always taking pictures, I grabbed this one. It was fortuitous that the figures fell in between the bars of the school yard. Even though this image is almost 50 years old I believe it still holds up today.

Picture of the Week # 369 "Impatient Geisha" Tokyo, Japan 1989 & "Zebras in Orvieto" Masai Mara, Kenya 1997 & Orvieto, Italy 2002 & printed in 2015

When I had a show of my work in Tokyo and was staying at the famed Okura Hotel, I walked out of my room to find an impatient Geisha waiting for the elevator. She kept looking at her watch and pushing the elevator button. I don't remember how long it took, but it was long enough for me to click off the shot. And now being Xmas is Thursday and I only post on Mondays, I thought I'd throw in a little present of what is obviously a manipulated image of the zebras in front of the striped Church in Orvieto Italy. Every once in a while I create an image rather than capture one. Have a healthy, happy and safe holiday. 

Picture of the Week #368 "The Lords of Flatbush" & Bonus "Sly Lifting the Lords"

Brooklyn, New York 1972 Signed & Stamped

It's Award season now for movies and Sylvester Stallone whom I kindly refer to as my "cinematic son" is garnering much deserved praise for his role in "Creed" the latest in the "Rocky sagas. Sly and I met in 1972 and I immediately cast him for the role of "Stanley in our first feature film "The Lords of Flatbush". This was two years before his breakthrough classic "Rocky". And yes that is Henry Winkler who also had his debut in "The Lords". Henry has stated that he took his character from Lords for his iconic role of "Fonzie" on Happy Days. A generation of cinema & Television legends was born in my little movie. Good luck Sly, you know I'm rooting for you. 

Picture of the Week #367 "The Shephard & His Flock" Grimaud, France 1981 Signed & Stamped

When I had a second home in the South of France, I spent every waking hour either basking on the beach in St. Tropez, painting or taking pictures and of course eating and drinking Rose wine. One day on my daily excursion I ran into a local Shephard and his flock of sheep. It was near sundown and I quickly grabbed this one shot and continued on. Recently looking through my volumes of 35 millimeter transparencies I came across this image. It was very dark. Thankfully when I scanned it in to my computer I was able to bring out the hidden colors from the transparency.

Picture of the Week #366 "Reading Pravda" & "Slow Dance in Moscow" Moscow, Russia 1988 

Signed & Stamped

When I was invited to Russia to show my films at the first Soviet / American Film Interchange in over 40 years,  I obviously took lots of pictures in my spare time. I remember that people were cautious and staring at me when I raised my camera. Everyone wore dark colors and the mood was somber to say the least. The one woman wearing red in a the hotel dance stood out. Lucky for me the light was right. The streets were filled with sad expressions as people made their way to work. But yet my trip was a happy one thanks to my fellow American Film Makers. 

Picture of the Week # 365 "Elephant Crossing"  Masai Mara, Kenya, 1997 Signed & Stamped

This was taken on our honeymoon safari in Africa. One of the greatest most photogenic trips for professionals or rank amateurs. My dear wife Ann has always held this as her favorite trip and being animal lovers we were totally in heaven. People think because you are staying in tented camps that you are "roughing it". But in fact it was luxurious. Yes it's a tent, but it has marble baths and showers. The only difference is that the walls are canvas. These elephants were one of many herds that we encountered. Not to mention the other big names, like Lion, Cheetah, Rhino as well as it was paradise. A trip never to be forgotten. One day we hope to do another safari, perhaps in South Africa. If we do I'm sure I'll have more animal pictures of the week for you.

Picture of the Week #364 "Paris Prayer" 2007/2015 & Bonus "Bloody Tragedy" 1989/2015

Last Friday the 13th's tragic killing in Paris reminded me of an image I took of a Tibetan Prayer Flag in front of the Eiffel Tower back in 2007. Yesterday I manipulated the image to to show the sky clouded over and brightened the yellow flag. The significance to me was the carnage reflected in the drab color of the sky and the Tower, but a ray of sunshine still glows beneath it. And while I felt that yellow was usually the color of cowardice and fear, that it was a two edged sword, as a Buddhist prayer flag gave hope to a kinder and safer world and that understanding and peace will soon prevail.  In the bottom image from 1989, I turned the sky red to reflect the blood spilt over my adopted second home. I'm not sure that bombing Syria is the answer. I believe that ISIS was started by Bush & Cheney's irresponsible acts of aggression and remember when Chaney categorically stated that we are going after Iraq, Iran and Syria. I said to myself back then, why Syria? What did they do to us? Maybe they are paying us back? I believe in freedom everywhere and that war and bombs are not always the answer. Understanding and communication is.

Picture of the Week #363 "Roman Rain" 1971 Signed & Stamped

In the pouring rain in Rome I got this shot of a priest standing in a bus stop as a car came whizzing by me. I always remembered this image but only recently found it in my library of 35mm slides. Considering it's 44 years old, it still holds up as contemporary to me. 

Picture of the Week #362 "Lenin" & Bonus "Kruschev" Moscow, Russia 1988 Signed & Stamped

When I was in Russia for the first Soviet / American Film Interchange since World War Two I tried to capture some of the iconic images of the Soviet's past. Driving along I noticed the giant billboard of Vladimir Lenin's portrait plastered to the side of a wall. I don't know what the significance of it's hanging there meant, nor could anyone tell me since he was long gone. Then my guide took me to the cemetery and asked if I would like to dance on Kruschev's grave. I thought he was kidding. But lo and behold there it was. I took some pictures instead. 

Picture of the Week #361 "Motorbike Rendezvous" Rome, Italy 2002 Signed & Stamped

I adore Rome. Even within the chaotic tumult of a bustling city I find small things to photograph. Not that this is small, but it's confined. I snapped this by the Spanish Steps and Via Condotti, the frenetic meeting place for Roman visitors as well as locals. The image was originally in color but I'm going through a phase for the last few weeks where I'm turning the images to B&W. The drama definitely increases with the chiaroscuro rendition. Some images are still better in color, such as ones from my "Pictures That Make You Smile" series. But for graphic drama, Black & White is the answer.

Picture of the Week #360 "Drive By" Rome, Italy 1965 Signed & Stamped

When I was first in Rome some 50 years ago I shot this through the car windows. All of my photos are originally in color. But as I am now deeply ensconced in the Photography movement I am finding that many collectors view B&W more seriously. Sure color is making it's mark, but the traditional B&W still reigns to many. I don't know why. Sure there is an unrealistic drama to them, but I still prefer color, especially when they are photos that make you smile. Humor is color, drama is B&W.

# 359  "Kid With A Gun" Kathmandu, Nepal 2000 Signed & Stamped

I never really thought about this image until all this gun violence began in our schools. Three shootings this week alone. More students die in school shootings than anywhere else. The NRA Government says its a mental health issue. My belief is that Congress will do nothing about it as they are backed by the strong lobbyists of the NRA, until someone walks into Congress and takes a few of these career politicians out. Then you will see how quickly they act. Sad what has and is happening in this country. And frankly I don't see much relief in sight. 

Picture of the Week #358 "Who Are You" Beverly Hills, California 2015 Signed & Stamped

Walking in Beverly Hills I happen to notice this etched into the sidewalk. How existential I thought  and immediately  took out my little camera to record it. Yes, those are my feet and my camera strap is hanging in the frame. But when I think of the message of "Who Are You" I question if this was done by young kid or a some follower of Albert Camus.

Picture of the Week #357 "Peeking Out in Portofino" Portofino, Italy 1989 Signed & Stamped

I adore Portofino. It is truly one of the most magic places I have ever been. But sadly, too many people think the same of this small Mediterranean village. I've come here at high and low seasons, and truly the best is late October or early November when the crowds have gone but the beauty remains. Yes, it's cooler and the weather is dodgy, but the charm still shines. This was a view from my window on one of those cold dreary days and it was still wonderful. 

Picture of the Week # 356 "Johnny Depp" Beverly Hills, California 2015 Signed & Stamped

We went to the Motion Picture Academy to see Johnny Depp's latest film "Black Mass". We really enjoyed it and were very impressed  by his performance. After the screening he spoke along with the writer / director Scott Cooper. As well as the two female leads Dakota Johnson & Julianne Nicholson.  We walked out after I snapped a few very long shots with my pocket camera. I hate when actors or in this case actresses can't speak or answer a question without a script. And if I have to hear one more time how "incredible" everyone was or how it was like "family", I want to puke. But it is a very strong contender for Oscar consideration, and I think will resurrect Johnny Depp's place as a very fine actor.

Picture of the Week # 355 "Edgar Winter" Los Angeles, California 1972 Signed & Stamped

Also: Music Video that I photographed, produced & directed:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBFliHBCIjU

When I was in my Music Video hey days, one of the rock and roller artists that I was fortunate enough to produce & direct their music videos for was the albino Edgar Winter. I also didi his brother Johnny Winter's video. I thought that since I've been posting my "Pictures of the Week" for 355 weeks it was time to add a bonus of seeing the music video as well. It was produced for Columbia Records when Clive Davis was president and had the fortitude and vision to allow me to make these exciting new art form films. Thank you Clive I will always be grateful. Rock on.

Picture of the Week # 354 "Elvis Travolta" Tokyo, Japan 1989 Signed & Stamped

While in Tokyo for my show at the La Foret Museum back in 1989 I happened on this life size sculpture of who I presumed to be "Elvis". But then looking at it all these years later I couldn't help but notice the similarity to John Travolta. Then I thought to myself that I should call it "Elvis Travolta" thereby melding the two celebrity icons together. What do you think?

Picture of the Week #353 "Relaxing in Cairo"  Cairo, Egypt 1989 Signed & Stamped

When I was in Egypt to see the Pyramids in Giza, I also took time to roam the streets of Cairo taking pictures. People, are always what interest me and my work. I walked all over without a guide and without fear, snapping away. I don't know if I could do that today as the environment has changed so drastically. This man relaxing his feet had an authoritative air about him and having his feet resting on a little platform just enhanced my belief that he was the head honcho at this cafe.

Picture of the Week # 352 "Picasso Eyes"  Kathmandu, Nepal 2000 Signed & Stamped

This Monk's searing eyes burned towards me and reminded me of the intense stare and eyes of my hero Pablo Picasso. Sadly much of Kathmandu was ruined in the earthquake earlier this year. As you can see behind him the bricks are already crumbling. I doubt if this structure survived. I only hope that he did. Supposedly these monks do not bathe, but for some reason they never smell. May peace prevail not only in this volatile section of the world, but everywhere.

Picture of the Week #351 " Camel Driver" Giza, Egypt 1989 Signed & Stamped

On my 1989 Around the World venture I had stopped in Cairo and of course went to Giza to see the Pyramids. I had a young boy of about 14 or 15 as my camel driver. But when we weren't bouncing up and down and was back on firm ground,  I was able to walk among the other drivers and take photos. This camel driver's face said so much about his life. All of my photos back then were shot on 35mm transparency film. Slides. Not the best quality for doing very large prints but for this image at 13" x 19" it was perfect. I'd love to go back and bring my darling wife Ann as this trip was before she and I met. I know there's hazards there now, especially for Americans, but the picture rewards could be substantial.

Picture of the Week # 350 "Elaborate Couple" Venice, Italy 2011 Signed & Stamped

The Carnivale in Venice is still one of the best events that I was fortunate to have been to. Here is a couple who really out did themselves. As I have posted other images from this Carnivale I am sure that I said how much fun it was and how inspiring for my picture taking. I had 306 people pose for me during the 6 days that I was there. I am still stymied by all of the masks that we hide behind and what these festival goers are really thinking as they parade around St. Mark's Square on a very cold but sunny day.

Picture of the Week # 349 "Hanging Out"  Los Angeles, California 1984 Signed & Stamped

Downtown LA was just starting to happen and I was down there scouting around when I saw these hangers sticking out of the window in what I presume was one of many garment center buildings. I took the photo and left. Now 31 years later I decided to present you with this rather fun image that will undoubtedly be in my "Pictures That Make You Smile" portfolio when it's published. At least now you can enjoy it.

Picture of the Week #348 "Ladies Man of Lisbon" Lisbon, Portugal 1965 Signed & Stamped

Yes, 1 9 6 5, fifty years ago I took this picture. I was on my honeymoon with my first wife Wendy. We had gone to Paris, then Madrid, Barcelona and on to Lisbon before we took off for Tangiers. I also made a 16mm film of our travels that I called "Improm-2". I'm not sure as my memory isn't what it used to be, if that film was shown in the Museum of Modern Art in New York when we returned. I know that another documentary I made called "The Empty Hand" was shown along with some of my earliest music videos, including the one I did of the Beatles singing "I Feel Fine" and Barbra Streisand singing "My Coloring Book". Even though this picture sat in my files, I always remembered it. Yesterday I pulled it out, scanned it and printed it on archival paper. Vintage Verona as it's very best and obviously one of my favorites.

Picture of the Week # 347 "THE New L.A. Landmark" Los Angeles, 2015 Signed & Stamped

BONUS: "Petersen Pattern" Los Angeles, 2015 Signed & Stamped

At Wilshire & Fairfax, Los Angeles now has a real landmark. Move over Watts Tower and the Santa Monica Pier & Disney Hall. Thanks to the late Chris Burden and his lamppost installation we have an artistic achievement that brings visitors to a place that many may not have gone. Across the street the Petersen Automotive Museum in coming along and is looking to attract tourists while the new Academy of Motion Pictures Museum is being built next to LACMA. An incredible destination corner of Art that adds a vibrancy to Los Angeles's multifaceted landscape.

Picture of the Week #346 "Sneek Peek" Venice, Italy 2011 Signed & Stamped

This is from my "Pictures That Make You Smile" series. I took it four years ago but it still gets a reaction. I was in Venice for the Carnivale and happened to see this group standing and looking at the backside of a mannequin. SNAP I caught it and moved on. It wasn't until I was back at the hotel reviewing the days catch that I realized that I had this fun image. I'm starting to brand myself with these "Pictures That Make You Smile" as I love taking them and seeing the reactions from the viewers. Next up a gallery exhibit.

Picture of the Week # 345 "Man of Mystery" Portofino / Santa Margherita, Italy 1971 Signed & Stamped

I found this image when I was rummaging through my vault of pictures. I had to clean it up a little as the dust & hairs were all over the transparency. But other than cleaning it up, there was no photoshop or manipulation. What you see is what I took. Today his hat is back in fashion, and for some reason it reminds me of a Mafia movie scene.

Picture of the Week # 344 "Free" Shanghai, China 2015 Signed & Stamped

Walking through Shanghai's French Concession streets I looked up and saw this sign. I don't think they intended to refer to the obvious. I presume the "CK" stands for Calvin Klein and the "FV" for another fashion provider. I didn't see any Tattoo parlor but then again I will admit that I didn't look that hard as I was on a mission to keep walking and just see if I could add to my "Pictures That Make You Smile" catalogue. This one brought that smile.

Picture of the Week #343 & Bonus "Terra Cotta Warriors Mandala 1, 2, & 3 Signed & Stamped

Needless to say this is a Special Picture of the Week. I thought that taking the images of the "Terra Cotta Warriors" and turning them into Mandalas was the way to present these 2,210 year old sculptures. As getting close up or even to eye level is strictly regulated, all tourists must observe from the platform above that encircles the excavation. Even though I was told you'll only need two hours to take it all in, I spent 4 and a half. Rather than being bothered by a guide I rented a cassette so that I could go at my own pace and take photos. It wasn't until I was back home in L.A. that I came up with the concept of making them into Mandalas. A Mandala represents the Universe, and Emperor Qin who ordered the mausoleum built for his afterlife, is also credited with creating the Great Wall of China. That was power.

Picture of the Week # 342 "Cooling Her Feet" Xi'An, China 2015 Signed & Stamped

After the extraordinary experience of seeing the "Terra Cotta Warriors" which are housed over an hour outside of Xi'An, I figured I should see what else there is for outsiders to see inside the city. The next day I took the harrowing cab ride from the new 5 Star Angsana Hotel, (all taxi's are scary as they text, talk on the phone, don't obey lane markings or speed limits) into town. I was told that the Muslim streets would be ideal for picture taking. Not sure about the safety, or about being a white American, I threw caution to the wind and went off armed with my cameras. Walking through the narrow streets I encountered this woman soaking her feet in fish tanks. Having been a decent world traveler, this was a new occurrence for me. I had never even heard of doing something like this. I snapped my pictures and continued on to find there were more places like this. I walked and took many images, sometimes the people would shyly turn away or hide behind something. But by and large there was no danger or hostility when I raised my camera. Most gladly allowed me to capture their image. It reminded me somewhat of a friendlier version of the souks in Morocco.

Picture of the Week # 341 "The Non Conformist"  Xi'An, China 2015 Signed & Stamped

I can now cross off the Terra Cotta Warriors of Xi'An from my bucket list. I had gone to Shanghai for my first one man show of "MAO to NOW" in China at the ArtN Space gallery. Afterwards, I took a few days off to fly to Xi'An to see these extraordinary works of art that laid buried for over 2,600 years. Emperor Qin who is responsible for building the Great Wall of China had these 8,000 life size soldiers sculpted for his tomb. In 1974 when two peasants were digging for a well they uncovered one of the most spectacular wonders of the world. Slowly, piece by piece they have been restoring these magnificent statues. All had originally been painted and were holding weapons or shields. The statues are housed in a giant stadium like structure where they rebuild these masterpieces. You can see the holes where the missing pieces will eventually go. There are row after row of these soldiers lined up in pits along with their horses. For some reason this one warrior was laying face down on what I presumed to be sacks of terra cotta. I found this image enlightening as to the process of restoration but also as an image that fits with my sensibilities towards pictures that make you smile. And this one certainly did. When I posted it as my Picture of the Week I had some difficulty with the internet at the hotel so I am not sure everyone on my weekly list got to see it. Now that I am home, I will add it to this week's image just to make sure as I think it deserves to be seen.

Picture of the Week #340 "Helmut Newton" Los Angeles, California 2005

Here is my simple & direct portrait of Helmut Newton, the iconic photographer whom I had the pleasure of knowing as both of us had summer homes just outside of St. Tropez. We had dinner together two weeks before his tragic death at the Chateau Marmont here in Los Angeles. This is where he spent his time while in Los Angeles. His home away from home. He had been forced out of his apartment in Paris when French taxes were overwhelming and so he moved to Monte Carlo. I know he loved it here, and had many friends, but I couldn't understand why he didn't want to live here. Helmut had an incredible sense of humor and a sharp wit that I so enjoyed. He is truly missed, but his imagery lives on. He was an original. 

Picture of the Week #339 "Remember" Santa Monica, California 2011 Signed & Stamped

A sad Memorial Day remembrance of a mother and child devastated by the loss of a loved one. In honor of Memorial Day crosses were placed in the sand. There were too many of them. Especially when it was a loss for a war that we were lied into.

Picture of the Week # 338 "African Gothic" & Bonus "Medicine Men of Kenya" Masai Mara, Kenya 1997 Signed & Stamped

On our Safari honeymoon Ann and I encountered these two Medicine Men. I posed them by the white picket fence which I found totally out of place in the Masai Mara. It reminded me of Grant Wood's iconic painting "American Gothic". Hence my title: "African Gothic". Normally I post one image but decided to add the bonus picture of them in close up. 

Picture of the Week # 337 "Window Washers of Vancouver" Vancouver, Canada 2005 Signed & Stamped

Back to graphics. I have a number of images of Window Washers. I have no idea why, perhaps it's the design or graphics of the modern buildings? Perhaps it's the voyeuristic feeling that something is about to happen? As I'm not particularly good at heights, I must give these brave souls their due. One day I hope to exhibit many of them in large format of 40" X 60". For now they are 13' X 19".

Picture of the Week # 336 "The Masked Man & The Indian" Venice, Italy 2011 Signed & Stamped

At the Venice Carnivale in 2011 I was focused in on all of those people who went over the top with elaborate costumes. I corralled 306 people to pose for me. But every once in a while there was someone who caught my eye, and here he is. It's not so much of a costume but when I caught the shadow of the person just out of frame casting his silhouette, CLICK, I caught it. This will be part of my "Pictures That Make You Smile" series that I hope to be exhibiting and making the viewer smile very soon. Stay tuned.

Picture of the Week #335 "A Wink & A Nod" New York City 1972 Signed & Stamped

This image of a homeless man was taken in 1972 when I was producing & directing Music Videos for Columbia Records. It was for a song titled "Carry Me" by Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show. I had gone down to the Bowery which was where the homeless congregated before it became gentrified. I took maybe three or four rolls of film and later animated those slides for the video. When digital came along I was able to scan, manipulate and print these images. They are very powerful and sadly project where this country was heading. In those days it was rare to see a homeless person on the street. 

Picture of the Week # 334 "Play Time" South of France 1981 & Los Angeles 2014 Signed & Stamped

I don't know where the inspiration for this image came from. I had been searching for a picture and I saw the clocks which I had taken a photo of in 1981 at a flea market in the South of France. Then one day last year I looked at the photo and decided to add my watches. When I took a picture of the watches they looked like they were flying off. I put the two together over an aerial view I had taken, and voila' here's the result.

# 333 "Schmuck With A Truck Under A Full Moon" Santa Monica, California 2014 Signed & Stamped

When we went to see the fireworks in Santa Monica one night there was this truck parked selling deli food. It immediately brought a smile to my face and everyone around us as well. I thought now here's an image for my Pictures That Make You Smile series. This is an ongoing series since 1965. Yes 1965. One day I will exhibit them.

Picture of the Week #332 & 332a "Selling Apples" Shanghai, China 1980 & 2014 Signed & Stamped

The primitive time of selling apples on the street in 1980 to the hi tech era of selling Apple computers in 2014, China has come a long way. These are part of my "MAO to NOW" photographic exploration of change series that will start being shown in June & July at the ArtN Space Gallery in Shanghai. Spread the word. There are more shows coming up in Hong Kong later this year and next year as part of the Shanghai Biennale.

Picture of the Week # 331 "Wrapped & Rap Bicycles" Shanghai, China 1980 & 2014 Signed & Stamped

Working on my "MAO to NOW" exhibit. I returned to mainland China last October & November after 34 years and tried to retrace my steps. But nothing looked the same. Oh yes, the great Wall, the Forbidden City etc are the same but the people and  the color are dramatically different. A simple illustration would be these two bicycle pictures I took then and now. I must say after being in China just last November I was able to put together three shows. The first in Shanghai at ArtN Space in June & July. Then in October & November at Picture This Gallery in Hong Kong, and finally at the Power Station of Art, the only State owned Museum in Shanghai for the Shanghai Biennale in 2016 and 17. I must admit that I am proud to have accomplished this in such a short period of time. Okay it took me 34 years, but hey I did it.