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Oaxaca Photography Workshop: Market Towns + Artisan Villages Summer 2012

TWO SPACES LEFT!   9 Days- 8 Nights,  June 29 –  July 7, 2012

    

Discover how to better know and use your digital camera in daily learning sessions.  Then, apply what you learn “on location” to capture your Oaxaca, Mexico travel adventure.  The program focuses on the use of  digital SLR photography to capture, record and document indigenous life, festivals, markets, folk art and artisans, landscapes, and people.  This is cultural immersion at its best! Featuring Dance of the Feather–Danza de la Pluma.

  

You will join art photographers Tom and Sam Robbins, our husband-wife team from Columbus, Ohio, who will return in 2012 to guide our expedition. 2011 Expedition participants raved about how much they learned — even the most experienced among them!.  The Robbins’ are versatile, experienced teachers and coaches whose work has been published in national photography magazines.  Their website features photos from our 2011 expedition!

  

The colonial city of Oaxaca de Juarez is located 375 miles south of Mexico City, closer to Central America.  It can be reached directly from the U.S. by Continental Airlines/United Airlines from Houston, TX.  (We encourage you to use this shorter, more direct route.)

I felt extremely safe, the people are so warm and welcoming. I loved the culture.  The cooking class was an incredible experience.  Everything is beautiful here. -Emily Fox

  

We will be based 30-minutes outside of Oaxaca City in the Zapotec village of Teotitlan del Valle.  We are there during the annual saint’s day festival, featuring the colorful Parade of the Baskets (Calenda de las Canastas) and the extraordinary Dance of the Feather (Danza de la Pluma).  Throughout the week, we provide you with access to private homes and artist studios to enrich and personalize your photographic experience.

  

You will participate in a cooking class to learn more about regional indigenous foods and their preparation — photography welcomed!

The cooking class was great and it provided wonderful photo opportunities. The instructors are exceptional, and there are endless picture subjects here. I learned the different functions of my digital camera. -Kellie Fitzgerald

  

We’ll roam the huge regional Tlacolula market where vendors sell everything from live turkeys, handmade chocolate, woven hammocks, and the kitchen sink.   On market days, people come from remote mountain villages to buy and sell dressed in traditional indigenous clothing–a feast for the photographer’s eye.

  

We’ll also visit San Pablo Villa de Mitla archeological site, and stop to photograph the 3,000 year old cypress tree that is 160 feet in diameter at Santa Maria del Tule on our way to spend a day in Oaxaca City.

Both Tom and Sam were very interested in helping us improve as photographers. They answered all questions and provided excellent feedback.  I discovered that I enjoy photography that has an artist focus and how nice it is to be in a village with friendly people, in a culture that is so rich in ancient traditions.  –Chris Willmore

  

You do not have to be experienced to participate!

Most importantly you will learn to use your digital camera to the full extent of its capabilities and yours!  Whether you are a beginner, amateur or intermediate level photographer, this is the travel photography workshop you have been looking for!

Most valuable for me was learning how to use the manual controls of my camera, learning about depth of field and the macro settings.  Norma’s community connections provided unusual access to artisans. –Dan O’Brien

Topics Covered:

  • Using manual camera settings
  • Understanding composition
  • Capturing light, shadow and reflection
  • Knowing more about aperature and shutter speed
  • Determining when to use flash
  • Experimenting with black and white, and sepia
  • Exploring the essentials of landscape and portraiture
  • Applying editing software for special effects
  • Identifying what equipment is most useful
  • Getting feedback for steady improvement

This is a different experience from walking around and being a tourist! It means immersion, looking for opportunities to see things from an alternate perspective.  During the workshop, you will review each other’s work, give each other feedback, and provide gentle critique, all with the expert guidance and coaching from Tom and Sam.  A group presentation at the end of the week will give you an opportunity to showcase your best work and select a theme, if you choose.

  

This is a walking expedition!  Instruction will include both formal group discussion and a learn-as-you-go organic, flexible format.

  

Come with us!  Summer is the perfect time to explore the vibrancy, color and beauty of southern Mexico.   Farmers are tilling their fields with wood plows yoked to oxen, planting indigenous, organic corn.  Maize is ground by hand on metates in family courtyards to prepare tamales for red mole (MOH-lay) sauce local festivals.  The aroma and taste of just-made chocolate, mescal and mole stimulate the senses.   Days are warm and evenings are mild at this 6,000 ft. high desert plateau where sheep and burros graze, guacalotes cackle and eagles soar.

Sam (behind the camera) and Tom Robbins lead summer 2012 Oaxaca Photography Expedition

About Husband and Wife Photographers Tom and Sam Robbins, Your Expedition Guides and Workshop Leaders

Tom Robbins, a photographer for more than 40 years, is a professor of architecture at Columbus (Ohio) State Community College.  His careers in architecture and education have deepened his love for,  and understanding of design, composition and visual impact.  Tom and his wife, Sam, have exhibited widely and their work has been published in “Black and White Magazine.”  Tom has photographed extensively in rural Ohio, New Orleans, and Southern Mexico where he finds the landscapes, the architecture and the people wonderfully photogenic. In the last five years, Tom and Sam have made Mexico the primary subject of their photography and have visited Oaxaca and the surrounding villages numerous times.  Most of Tom’s work has been with 35 mm SLR and medium format cameras.

A serious photographer for over 20 years, Sam Robbins considers herself to be a “photographic hunter.”  Like her husband, Tom, she is most comfortable walking and wandering with her camera at the ready. While she has done studio portrait work, she is happiest allowing photographs to present themselves.  Sam teaches art, English and photography.  She sees sharing her passion for photography with students as one of the most rewarding experiences of her life.  Sam is also a quilter, and believes that her work with color and design have contributed to her photographic eye.  Though most of her work has been with a 35 mm SLR, she also has shot with medium format and really enjoys using a plastic, toy camera.  Recently, Sam taught and exhibited at the Museo Textil de Oaxaca, where English and Spanish-speaking participants applauded her thoughtful, supportive style.

Tom holds the Bachelor’s in Architecture from the University of Illinois.  Sam holds the B.A. in political science from Ohio University and the M.A. in English Education from The Ohio State University with an art minor from Otterbein University.

See their work at   www.robbinsx2.com

  

Sam and Tom are the ideal instructions.  Any experience with them is one that is worthwhile.  I would recommend this program to others.  It is life changing and breathtaking.  — Emily Moore

Preliminary Itinerary (subject to change)

Day One,  Friday, June 29: Teotitlan.   This is your travel day. Arrive and settle in to our bed and breakfast. Dinner on your own.

Day Two, Saturday, June 30:  Teotitlan. Breakfast and learning session. Explore Teotitlan del Valle on foot: meet artisans, walk nature trails.  Group lunch.  Afternoon on your own. “Best of the Day” show and tell.  Group dinner. (B,L,D)

Day Three, Sunday, July 1:  Tlacolula Market.  After the morning learning session, climb on the local bus to travel 15 minutes to the Sunday tianguis or regional market. Return late afternoon.  “Best of the Day” show and tell. Group dinner.  (B,L,D)

Day Four, Monday, July 2: Oaxaca and “El Tule.  Lunch and dinner on your own.  (B)

Day Five, Tuesday, July 3: Cooking class. Early evening “Best of the Day” show and tell.  Group dinner.   (B, L, D)

Day Six, Wednesday, July 4,:  After breakfast and the morning learning session, we’ll travel to San Pablo Villa de Mitla to photograph this famed archeological site.  “Best of Day” show and tell.  Group dinner (B, L, D)

Day Seven, Thursday, July 5: After breakfast and the morning learning session, you’ll have the day to enjoy on your own to explore the village and surrounding countryside or return to Oaxaca City.  This is a free day.  Meet at 5:00 p.m. for the Parade of the Canastas – to begin the Teotitlan del Valle village saint day celebrations.   (B, D)

Day Eight, Friday, July 6:  After breakfast and the learning session, begin preparing your final presentation.  The Dance of the Feather starts in late afternoon in the church courtyard and continues non-stop through 10 p.m. followed by fireworks.  Participants will dance in full dress regalia.  The Dance dramatizes the story of the Spanish conquest and the roles of Cortes and Moctezuma.  Be sure to save a place for shots of those fantastic plumed headdresses and handwoven tapestry shields.  After dinner, we will have our Best of Week show.  (B, D)

Day Nine, Saturday, July 7:  Departure.

Optional Additional Days:  You may wish to stay in the village for several more days or arrive a few days earlier.  We are happy to arrange this for you at a cost of $48 per night per person for each additional day (includes breakfast only).

Dance of the Feather, Danza de la Pluma

What You Should Bring

1)     Your energy and enthusiasm

2)     Digital SLR camera

3)     Laptop computer

4)     Software for organizing and presenting images (such as Photoshop Express)

5)     Batteries and battery charger

6)     Memory card(s) and card reader

7)     Pen and notepad

8)    Memory stick–jump drive

Plus, sturdy, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, sun hat

(Upon registration, you will receive a complete packet and information guide with suggested packing list and other useful information.)

 

Lodging/Accommodations

To keep this trip affordable, we stay in a local bed and breakfast operated by three generations of women — grandmother, mother, daughter — all great cooks! The food is all handcrafted and delicious.  Vegetarian options are available.

Accommodations are clean and basic.  Shared baths are across the courtyard. (Bring flip-flops and flashlight.)  You will have the option of having a double room with shared bath for the base price of the trip; single supplement with shared bath (add $200); shared room with private bath (add $200); single room with private bath (add $300).  Please indicate your preference.  If you desire upscale accommodations, please consider a different program!

Cost:  The base cost for the trip is $1295.00 USD. This includes 8 nights lodging double occupancy, 8 breakfasts,  4 lunches, 6 dinners, cooking class, transportation to villages and archeological sites, and all instruction.  Most travel programs of this type and length cost more than twice as much!

It does NOT include airfare, taxes, admissions to museums and archeological sites, gratuities, travel insurance, liquor/alcoholic beverages, some meals and some transportation.

Costs, Reservations,  and Cancellations

A 50% deposit ($650) is required to guarantee your spot.  The final payment for the balance due (including any supplemental costs) shall be postmarked by April 1, 2012.  We prefer Payment with PayPal.  We will be happy to send you an  invoice.

Note: Our last photography workshop filled up immediately.  Don’t hesitate if you want to attend!

If cancellation is necessary, please notify us in writing by email.   After April 1, no refunds are possible; however, we will make every possible effort to fill your reserved space.  If you cancel before April 1, we will refund 50% of your deposit.  We strongly recommend that you take out trip cancellation, baggage, emergency evacuation and medical insurance before you begin your trip, since unforeseen circumstances are possible.

To register or for questions, contact:  normahawthorne@mac.com or call (919) 274-6194

Please make your deposit payable to Norma Hawthorne, OCN-LLC and mail it to: Norma Hawthorne, 110 Blue Heron Farm Rd., Pittsboro, NC 27312.  Thank you.

Photos by Norma Hawthorne with the exception of the Robbins’ portrait. I use a Nikon D40X camera body and a 28-300mm Nikkor lens.

This workshop is produced by Norma Hawthorne, Oaxaca Cultural Navigator LLC.  For more information, see:  www.oaxacaculture.com

2011 Day of the Dead Photography Expedition, Oaxaca, Mexico

Saturday, October 29 – Friday, November 4, 2011.

Bill Bamberger is your expedition leader. He teaches at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and in the Duke University Center for Documentary Studies.
Travel with us to Oaxaca, Mexico where you will explore the magic and mystery of Day of the Dead through photography– a feast for the visual senses.  This six-night, seven-day expedition is a cultural immersion experience.  During this annual festival the city vibrates with color, music, and Mardi Gras-like energy.  Come with us to document the food, religious symbols, people, cemeteries and family celebrations both in the city and in the rural Zapotec village of Teotitlan del Valle.   By the end of the week, you will use your digital SLR camera for visual storytelling and cultural discovery.

 

This workshop is limited to 10 participants.  Last year we filled quickly.  If this is something you’ve always dreamed of doing, don’t hesitate!

 

Panteon Xoxocotlan I, Dia de los Muertos 2010

This workshop is for beginning and intermediate-level amateur photographers who want to learn more about their digital SLR cameras and move more comfortably beyond the automatic setting.  Topics covered include using natural light, aperture and shutter speed, using a tripod, night-time photography, using bounce flash, focusing on details, photographing people and taking the time to set up your shot.

 

Learning documentary-style photography is different from taking photographs as a tourist.   It involves some degree of assimilation and a greater understanding of the culture and people you are photographing.  On this journey you will photograph people in their natural settings, experience local rituals, visit family environments, all while immersing yourselves in both the city and rural life of Oaxaca.

You will review each other’s work, give feedback, and provide supportive critiques, as we mix class instruction with being out on the streets.  Instruction will include a mix of formal group discussion and individual feedback.  You will have the opportunity to undertake an independent project during our stay in the Zapotec village of Teotitlan del Valle that focuses on themes central to Day of the Dead family observances and ritual.

2010 Dia de los Muertos Expedition Group

About Photographer and Educator Bill Bamberger

For two decades Bill Bamberger has been photographing Americans and their daily lives. His photographs have appeared in Aperture, Doubletake, Harper’s and the New York Times Magazine.  He has appeared as a featured guest on CBS Sunday Morning, About Books (CSPAN2), and North Carolina People with William Friday. His first book, Closing: The Life and Death of an American Factory (DoubleTakeBooks/Norton, 1998), won the Mayflower Prize in Nonfiction and was a semifinalist for the Robert F. Kennedy Book Award.

Bamberger’s work explores large social issues of our time: the demise of the American factory, housing in America, adolescents coming of age.  A trademark of Bamberger’s exhibitions is that they are first shown in the community where he has chosen to photograph prior to their museum exhibition. Closing: The Life and Death of an American Factory premiered in an abandoned department store a block from the closed furniture factory, while Stories of Home was first shown in a custom-designed 1,000 square foot mobile art gallery on San Antonio’s Mexican-American West Side.

Bamberger has had one-person exhibitions at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History, the North Carolina Museum of Art, the Yale University Art Gallery and the National Building Museum.  He was one of fifty-six American artists to participate in Artists and Communities: America Creates for the Millennium, the National Endowment for the Arts millennium project where he produced part II in an ongoing series about teenage boys coming of age.

Bamberger lives in Durham, North Carolina and teaches photography at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  He has lectured at museums and universities throughout the country and has taught classes and workshops pro bono in underserved communities across the country.

We selected Bill because of his unique perspective and in-depth experience.

Website:  billbamberger.com

Angel in Pan de Muertos (Day of the Dead bread)

Sesame candy skulls ready for eating.

Preliminary Itinerary (subject to change)

Day One, Oaxaca:  Meet fellow travelers and your instructor at our hotel for a pre-dinner gathering and discussion.  Group dinner.

Day Two, Oaxaca:  After breakfast, we’ll embark on a group walking expedition around Oaxaca city to see the highlights and get our bearings.  After lunch we will meet for class, then enjoy the free time  to capture the “magic hour” before dinner.  Options to explore markets, churches, street parades, public altars.

Day Three, Oaxaca:  After breakfast and class, have the day to explore on your own.  Then after lunch, we’ll go to the famed Xoxocotlan cemetery for an extraordinary Day of the Dead extravaganza. This is a VERY late night, so be prepared!  Options to explore Monte Alban archeological site or a crafts village.

Day Four, Teotitlan del Valle: After breakfast and a debriefing session, enjoy free time before we depart in early afternoon for the Zapotec weaving village of Teotitlan del Valle.  After check-in and lunch, we’ll enjoy a village walkabout orientation visiting artisans along the way. Then we’ll return to our bed and breakfast for supper.

Day Five, Teotitlan del Valle:  After breakfast and a briefing session, you will meet and spend the day with a local host family for a cultural immersion experience to capture Day of the Dead indigenous traditions. This might include helping to decorate the home altar, preparing and participating in the ritual lunch, and accompanying the family to the village cemetery.  We’ll see you back at our B&B after nightfall.

Day Six, Teotitlan del Valle: After breakfast, we will share experiences and photos of the prior day in our final class session.  After visits to local artisans, you’ll have the rest of the day on your own.  We’ll meet up in the evening for a Best of the Week photo exhibit and celebration supper.

Day 7, Teotitlan del Valle:  After breakfast and a group photo, we’ll complete the evaluation and summary before saying our goodbyes

Note:  Please make plane reservations to arrive in time to join us for the first evening orientation and dinner that begins at 6:30 p.m.  Your flight departure time should be no earlier than noon on Friday.  We are happy to make arrangements for you to arrive a day or two early or depart a day or two later at an additional cost.

Church of the Precious Blood, Teotitlan del Valle

Muertos Merrymakers

What You Should Bring

1)     Your energy and enthusiasm

2)     Digital SLR camera

3)     Laptop computer

4)     Software for organizing and presenting images (such as Photoshop Express)

5)     Batteries and battery charger

6)     Camera Memory card(s) and data sticks

7)     Pen and notepad

Plus, sturdy, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, sun hat

(Upon registration, you will receive a complete packet and information guide with suggested packing list and other useful information.)

 

 

Lodging/Accommodations. To keep this experience affordable, we have selected accommodations that are clean and basic.  We will spend three nights in Oaxaca and three nights in Teotitlan del Valle.   If you prefer luxury accommodations, please consider a different program.

Cost:  The basic cost for the trip is $1,295. USD. This includes six nights lodging double occupancy with shared bath, six breakfasts, three lunches, four dinners, transportation to the villages, and all instruction.  Most travel workshops of this type and length cost more than twice as much! It does NOT include airfare, taxes, gratuities, travel insurance, liquor/alcoholic beverages, some meals, entry fees, and transportation.

You will have the option of sharing a double room with shared bath for the base price of the trip.  Please indicate your preference.

Option A: Double room with shared bath; $1,295. Deposit to reserve: $650.

Option B: Double room with private bath; $1,495. Deposit to reserve: $750.

Option C:  Single room with private bath;  $1,645.  Deposit to reserve: $823.

Option D:  Add one night lodging in Oaxaca on Friday, October 28, +$150 each.

Option E:  Add one night lodging in Oaxaca on Friday, November 4, +$150 each.

Option F: Add additional nights lodging in Teotitlan del Valle, November 4+ for $55 per night.

Oaxaca Valley, View from Monte Alban

Reservations and Cancellations

A 50% deposit is required to guarantee your spot.  The final payment for the balance due (including any supplemental costs) shall be postmarked by August 1, 2011.  Payment may be made by check or PayPal.  We will be happy to send you an itemized invoice.

Please understand that we make lodging and transportation arrangements months in advance of the program.  Deposits or payments in full are often required by our hosts.  If cancellation is necessary, please notify us in writing by email.   After August 1, no refunds are possible; however, we will make every possible effort to fill your reserved space or you may send a substitute.  If you cancel on or before August 1, we will refund 50% of your deposit.  We strongly recommend that you take out trip cancellation, baggage, emergency evacuation and medical insurance before you begin your trip, since unforeseen circumstances are possible.

Wild Marigold Drying, preparing for dyeing wool

To register, contact:  normahawthorne@mac.com or call (919) 274-6194.  Please make your deposit payable to Oaxaca Cultural Navigator LLC, and mail it to: Norma Hawthorne, 110 Blue Heron Farm Rd., Pittsboro, NC 27312.  Thank you.

This workshop is produced by Norma Hawthorne, Oaxaca Cultural Navigator LLC.  We reserve the right to alter the itinerary and substitute instructors without notice.