BVJ Arts - Single Images

Most of my work is now pigment on paper. Here is why. Most images are approximately 8x10" printed on 11x14" paper - exceptions are noted. The prints are signed and numbered. They are printed on heavy weight Hahnemuhle Photo Rag 310gms/m² archival paper. Here is a look at a sample full sheet as they are printed. They are shipped in an archival crystal clear sleeve with archival backing board, packaged flat for shipping in appropriate shipping cartons. I offer a select group of images as, well, sort of samples of my work. Each of these selected individual prints is offered here for $20 plus shipping. Twenty dollars was good enough for Edward Weston; it is more than enough for the rest of us – even including inflation. The philosophical foundation of my uncommon pricing strategy for these selected prints. Click on the thumbnails for a larger image and print details.
	The Choir Herald, Alkabo School, ND, 2004 Purchase	1913. Published Monthly Each Containing 4 or More Good Anthems by Well Known Composers. Accurately as advertised, "The All-round Songbook." I found boxes of these in the Alkabo Schoolhouse, a bit worn for wear, but ready for immediate use should the demand arise.
	Piano, Alkabo, ND, 1994 Purchase	This image is from the now abandoned Alkabo School in Alkabo, North Dakota. My wife's Uncle Kenny and his children went to school there. It closed in the late 1960s. There are three rooms. The gym is in the basement. I was fascinated by the silence of this old piano and couldn't help wondering how long it had sat still, quiet and how many hands had graced its keys.
	Chairs and Pledge, Alkabo School, ND, 1994 Purchase	This is also from the Alkabo School. I am not hesitant about arranging found objects to make a better photograph, but in this image, everything is exactly as I found it. I could almost hear the little voices of the children from a long time ago.
	War Eagle Cheroots, John Day, OR 1987 Purchase	This is from the Doc Hay Museum in John Day, Oregon. In the 19th Century, a large number of Chinese laborers were used in the mining operations in the West. Doc Hay was a native Chinese herbalist and physician to cared for them. His office, now preserved in this historic treasure, if a wonderful and detailed glimpse into the past.
	Chairs & Curtain Purchase	During an intense three day workshop with photographer David Bayles, he kept asking difficult questions about my work that I could not answer. When I stood up at the end of the session, I was struck by the glow of the chairs against the delicate curtain.
	Piano workings #1, Alkabo School, North Dakota Purchase	Back in the Alkabo School again, this time in 2003. I had previously photographed this piano as a piano. Opening the casing, I found inside evidence of craftsmanship and care that was simply beautiful.
	Piano workings #2, Alkabo School, North Dakota Purchase	This detail of the inside of the piano at the Alkabo School literally send shivers down my spine when I saw the handwritten, pencil signature of the piano craftsman who built this instrument.
	Piano workings #3, Alkabo School, North Dakota Purchase	There is an order and precision to this old piano that is somehow mechanically reassuring. These parts are not intended to be seen. Then what reason could they have for the gold-painted interior other than pride?
	Glasses & Testament, Pioneer Shack, North Dakota, 2003 Purchase	I, too, wear glasses. This may not seem like a big deal in our times (although it is of considerable concern to a photographer) the world that opens when clear sight is restored is so often taken for granted.
	Coat Sleeve, Pioneer Shack, North Dakota, 2003 Purchase	Artists cannot deny the influence of other artists – and why should they? One of my favorite photographers is Wright Morris. When I saw this coat sleeve I thought of his work. I don't know if he ever photographed a coat sleeve, but it still makes me think of him.
	Knives, Pioneer Shack, North Dakota, 2003 Purchase	Wright Morris definitely did photograph silverware in a drawer. His is a wonderful, even breathtaking image. He did it first; he did it better. Nonetheless, I still couldn't resist this image and am willing to ask forgiveness for such a blatantly similar composition.
	Door and Latch, Paisley, OR, 1990 Purchase	Doors and windows are among the most prevalent themes in all of photography. The obvious symbolism makes them easy targets and effective seducers. When light plays on a door, I defy any photographer to resist.
	Door, Pioneer Village, Crosby, ND, 2003 Purchase	I was captivated by the contrast of the rough-cut wood, the almost-disappeared paint, and the still shining brass knob and plate.
	Door and Stick Latch, Service Creek, OR, 1995 Purchase	In some communities, the only security that is required is a stick in a catch.
	Books, Fairview School, OR, 1991 Purchase	These books were from the 1920s and 30s, yet they were still there - although a bit mice eaten - when I photographed this prairie school in 1991.
	Grenora Post Office, North Dakota, 2003 Purchase	Grenora is a town that survives, in spite of the exodus to the big cities. The post office is across the street from the one cafe. The breakfast is great and I recommend it if you ever find yourself there.
	Window and Curtain, St. Paul, OR, 1997 Purchase	Ever since Paul Strand photographed for his classic book Time in New England photographers have been making pictures of white walls and windows. They are seductive subjects both because of their quiet simplicity and their deceptively difficult white tones. White-on-white can so easily become photographic grey-and-blah. This is the only white wall I have ever photographed that I feel created the perfect white tones. Somehow, it makes me want to be a more moral person.