Patrol in a police car is one of the most boring things imaginable. So, it was with great delight and amazement that I ran into a photographer of renown while parked next to a rail crossing known for transients. Of course, I was not aware of the 'renown' bestowment at the time (and I apologize to Justine for probably sounding ridiculous...), and thought she was an intriguing artist on a tragic calling; to find the romanticism in modern day train riders.
It was great to be able to discuss art with someone while wearing a uniform. I don't know that I've ever had that opportunity, unless you count arguments with fellow officers that their Velvet Elvis constitutes fine art.... What I found was that she was humble, completely open to conversation, and lacking in anything I would consider as pretentious. Just a decent person pursuing a vision.
Of course, I got home and found that her work commands prices greater than my combined photographic income over the years, but then again, she's the one 3000 miles from home pursuing the perfect shot.
Anyway, it's nice to know that a parallel world that finds beauty in decay can occasionally bump up against the world I occupy at work. Gives me hope for the future!
The aspen print is a two plate relief print for a Holiday Printmaker's Exchange I'm participating in.
