Upcoming Workshops
Framing Nature: Photography as Meditation and Mediation
Esalen Institute, Big Sur, CA
August 22-27, 2010
In every step of the process, photography is a balancing of relationships, the merging of which creates a still moment, and a meditation. This workshop invites you to go close with the camera–into the world of nature and your own nature. Photography becomes a bridge, a life metaphor, and a means to experience great beauty.
An inward and outward journey, this workshop will cover basics of photography and camera. Through field trips, writing exercises and group critique, we explore ideas of seeing and being, and discover how our photographs tell us as much about ourselves as what we photograph.
A visual adventure into the sights and secrets of Esalen, the workshop allows us to see the world anew–to alter perspective, shift focus, find detail, notice contrast, and receive the light and shadow around us. It is a way to encourage being present and in relationship with our environment–sparking connections and insights, and creating an art that informs our life.
Taught by Emmy-nominated filmmaker and award-winning photographer Andy Abrahams Wilson, the workshop is designed for people with all levels of experience. Bring your own digital SLR camera with manual settings. Enrollment is limited for an optimal and intimate group experience.
Testimonials
"I had no idea what would be revealed to me, and I recognize now the work I did there as the most intimate expression of how I approach and love life. I have never experienced anything as transformative. Thank you again and again." -S.L.
"I feel I learned so much about photography as a form of expression of beauty and the self." -J.S.
"The balance of exchange, exercises, and time to discuss and absorb the process was ideal, as was the size of the class. It provided the necessary level of intimacy for the exploration of ourselves with nature, the camera and each other."
"Awesome experience! Well balanced between technical and experiential."
"Really enjoyed the exercises and the overall approach to exploring how we can see nature and how the camera can be a bridge."
"Learned, efficient, open, inspiring and exceptionally talented, Andy gave more than 100% to the class. He created a good group cohesiveness, and helped each of us through our own barriers."
"A wonderful experience filled with excitement and discovery."
"I had a fabulous time--we really bonded as a tribe."
"The workshop was awesome. Inspiring and informative."
"Thank you for facilitating and being part of the most amazing experience of my life!"
PERSONNEL 
The environment, dynamic, exercises, and insight you created
