In A New Light

Return from the Mountains

2011-09-08T19:39:00.000-07:00

What is it about the mountains? Their spell is unshakable. This past Monday, four In a New Light artists returned from a two week expedition to Rocky Mountain National Park, and I suspect we are all still enchanted by those peaks. The trip made memories that won’t fade anytime soon. Memories of grueling hikes fueled by unfamiliarly thin air to pristine mountain lakes two miles above sea level. Memories of dozens of native greenback cutthroat trout hooked using the beautiful simplicity of Tenkara-style fly fishing. Memories of enormous bull elk wandering surprisingly close to camp, as if requesting their photo-op. And memories of unparalleled photographic magic chronicled in a sample of photos below. Adapting artistically to such a foreign landscape was initially challenging for the young photographers, but, in predictable fashion, they figured it out quickly and returned with image portfolios that would make many pros jealous.

Our expedition to Rocky Mountain National Park reminded me more powerfully than ever before what In a New Light is all about. Yes, it’s about creating great art, about connecting with nature and national parks. But above all, it’s about using art and nature as beacons on kids’ deeply personal quests for healing, renewal, and hope. Jourdyn, Brack, Renny, and Shane found hope in those mountains. They put their hearts into their photos and bared their souls for our documentary film camera. They emerged from the clouds with a newly defined sense of who they are and what they’re capable of. Yes, the mountains cast their spell.

Like every In a New Light endeavor, our expedition to Rocky Mountain National Park would not have been possible without a tremendous community of supporters. Foremost, I must acknowledge fellow Northwest Passage staff members Christy Ammend, Chris Flottum, and Wes Olson for providing essential support on this trip. RMNP staff were also critically important to making this trip happen. Larry Frederick, Jean Muenchrath, Kathy Brown, and Kyle Patterson provided planning and logistical support. Biologist John Mack spoke with our riveted group for two hours about bears and other Park wildlife. Artist-in-residence Emily Harrington spoke to the boys about her art and making a career in art. Thanks once again to Jeff Butler for teaching us Tenkara-style flyfishing and TenkaraUSA for providing us with fishing rods. Interstate Batteries donated a two-week supply of batteries for all of our still and video camera equipment. Finally, thanks to the dedicated staff at St. Croix National Scenic Riverway for helping plan this trip from the ground up, and to the National Park Foundation for funding In a New Light through an America's Best Idea grant made possible through the generous support of the Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation, The Anschutz Foundation, and Ahmanson Foundation.

-Ben Thwaits, In a New Light Project Leader

"I Am the Mountain"

by Brack, 17

I am the mountain

I am the river that gives life

I am the priceless scenery

I am the highest of the peaks

I am the rain

I am every shadow under a rock

I am the sun that reflects in the lakes

I am every life

I am every death

"Lonely"

by Shane, 16

I stand alone

Thinking about how to get home

People think I'm bad to the bone

But I need to stop running from home

So I don't have to be alone.

"Berries"

by Jourdyn, 17

I took this picture in broad daylight, but I wanted it to have a darker look, so I adjusted my exposure. I got really close to capture the beauty of these berries.

"Colorful"

by Renny, 15

Colorful spectrum

full of life

penetrates the rainy haze

Moving forward

I'm following the light

Forgetful of the darker days

"Bluebird"

by Jourdyn, 17

This bird sings to me

and I listened.

This bird watched me

and I watched it.

This bird flew away

but I'm still here.

"The Four Brothers"

by Shane, 16

This is me in the sky with my brothers.

All we ever do is think about our mother.

This is where we all come together

I never stand alone.

"Standing Strong"

by Renny, 15

Standing strong

against the wind

against the rain

against the clouds

I am a mountain

Standing strong

before the world

before the doubters

before the haters

I am a mountain!

"Fallen Tree"

by Brack, 17

Who stood with this tree?

when it grew leaves

when it was buried in snow

when it grew tall

when its leaves fell

when the tree came down

Who stood with this tree?

Yellowstone Magic

2011-07-21T19:54:00.000-07:00

Just a few short days ago, four In a New Light artists returned from a two-week photography expedition to Yellowstone National Park. The experience is still resonating in the deepest part of our souls, a shadowy place not easily expressed through language. I’m grateful that photos accompany the end of this post, because an experience this powerful can be adequately communicated only through art.

Yellowstone was an adventure. Most of our time was spent traversing the backcountry, with a few short forays into the front country, battling crowds to see some of the iconic sights. But the serene backcountry was home for us. It was a place of morning swims in snowmelt streams, bison crankily sauntering through camp, adrenaline rush climbs to snowy peaks, fresh grizzly tracks in the dust, brook trout on the fly, 50-mile views to far off mountain ranges, backdrops of rising thermal steam, CGI sunsets, hailstorms weathered with terrified glee, and, of course, once-in-a-lifetime photographic magic. It seemed that every moment was a moment of discovery in this exotic land, such a far cry from our North Woods training grounds on the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.

However, for Chris, Willie, Victor, and Jesse, the deepest discoveries were not of the land, but of themselves. For these two weeks, Yellowstone became a stage where four young men redefined themselves. They discovered new physical and emotional strength, new meaning to the word “team”, and new mastery of artistic expression. The experience of Yellowstone’s powerful yet benevolent spirit will surely stay with the boys forever.

The In a New Light Yellowstone expedition was possible only through the incredibly kind assistance of many groups and individuals in addition to the National Park Foundation, who provided the primary funding for the project. Yellowstone National Park Rangers Beth Taylor and Ivan Kowski provided critical trip planning and logistical support. Interstate Batteries donated over $1500 of still and video camera batteries. For two weeks we never had to re-charge! The team at Blue Ribbon Flies in West Yellowstone gave critical fishing advice and support. Woody Wimberly of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway provided important trip planning advice. TenkaraUSA gave us major discounts on fishing rods. (Stay tuned for a blog post about Tenkara fishing). Jeff Butler provided free fly fishing lessons to the boys. Finally, Jason Greatsinger and Christy Ammend served as not only awesome co-leaders of this expedition, but also captured countless hours breathtaking video that will become part of a feature-length documentary about In a New Light in the coming year. Thank you so much, everyone.

-Ben Thwaits, Project Leader

Willie, Chris, Jessie, and Jason team up for some video.

Victor and Jessie rest after a snowball fight.

Jessie celebrates the breathtaking view.

Victor shows off the catch of the day.

The Hill

by Victor, 14

This picture reminds me that there are hills in life. You're always going to struggle on your way up, but when you get there, it's always worth it. You get rewarded with great views. And no matter how high you climb, there are always more hills waiting for you.

The Waterfall

by Jessie, 16

The water is pouring

My spirit is soaring

I see my aunties tears rushing down

She wants me to be around

But I do my own thing

Been away too long

Now I can't open the door

Sunrise Through Burned Trees

by Willie, 13

I took this picture because my mom loves sunrises and she asked me to get a picture of a sunrise in Yellowstone.

River Never Seen

by Chris, 17

Swiftly flowing before blind eyes

The ocean is my silent prize

I race and race as fast as I can

Stopping isn't in my plan

By day I'm cold and plain as ever

At night I'm rarely seen if ever

I have a side that few have seen

as complex as my water is clean

I deal with things you've never been through

You're brave to even wear my shoe

One step in mine is terrifying

But never worth quitting trying.

Challenges I'm sure to face

For these I pray and quitely brace

But no apprehension crosses my mind

Not once or twice or at any time

It all works out ever second every day

Over and over the events will play

But ss hard as it gets I won't leave . . . I'll stay.

Sad Bison

by Victor, 15

Sunset Singing

by Jessie, 16

Heart of Thorns

by Chris, 17

The Crew. Good luck guys! We'll miss you!

Thinking Big

2011-06-20T09:05:00.000-07:00

The 2011 season of In a New Light is officially upon us. This year, we’re extremely fortunate to be armed with a renewed America’s Best Idea Grant from the National Park Foundation, made possible through the generous support of the Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation, The Anschutz Foundation, and Ahmanson Foundation. With these funds, and the momentum from the previous year’s success, we’re now thinking big. From our home base and artistic training grounds on the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, we will be embarking on four photographic expeditions to distant national parks this summer and fall: Isle Royale, Yellowstone, Rocky Mountain, and Badlands. A separate group of young artists will photograph each park, and their photos will tour the nation in an exhibit this fall.

The first group of five artists retuned from Isle Royale just two weeks ago. Daily storms and difficult terrain provided plenty of challenges for the boys to rise to, both physically and artistically. And rise they did, as the photos below demonstrate. The boys all talked about this island having a “spirit,” a magical quality to it that is hard to articulate in words. However, their photos say it all.

A huge thanks to the National Park Service staff at Isle Royale, especially Ranger Rob Bell, whose several hours with the boys left a very deep impression. When recounting their experiences on Isle Royale, “Ranger Rob” was always centerpiece of the conversation.

Stay tuned for more updates in the near future. There is so much more exciting news to share.

-Ben Thwaits, Project Leader

"Spirit in the Shoreline"

by Alex, 17

I really like the shoreline picture because I feel it captures the spirit of Isle Royale. Something about the way all of the colors blend together in this scene is magical. It was also very foggy when it was taken, so being on the island not being able to see anything gave a sense of complete isolation, like nothing from the outside world mattered that day.

"Standing Strong"

by Mike, 16

This light house reminds me of my mother.

Not only does she like light houses but she is

Strong and helpful like this light house.

In times of need she is there to give advice
And stands strong for what is right.

"Snake Like Me"

by Bobby, 14

I’m like a snake. People are afraid of me because they don’t understand me. They think I’m evil, that I’m a thief. But, I’m actually nice and gentle. There a few people that care for me like my parents and family and a few others that overcome the fear. They talk to me and love me and understand me. So please don’t be scared.

"Sparkles on the Water"

by David, 17

This picture reminds me of my grandmother. The sparkels remind me of her eyes when she's happy. The blue in the picture remindes me of her because it is her favorite color, and the brightness reminds me of her because whenever you're down or hurt she always has something to say to brighten up your day.

"Keep on Growing" by Kyle 17

I keep on growing,
Even when I feel I can't keep going,
Sometimes emotions make me wonder,
Why I keep myself from going back under,
Then I start to realize,
That my life is reality,
And I need to try even harder,
To grow up and be a good father.

In the Rotunda

2011-01-12T08:55:00.000-08:00

The In a New Light photo exhibition is now comfortably resting in its new home in the Wisconsin Capitol Rotunda until January 22. Words cannot accurately describe the beauty and power of such a magnificent building, and it is a humbling honor for the boys to display their art and share their stories within its walls. As I struggle to sufficiently describe the experience of being in such a place, what comes to mind is a feeling similar to that sense of awe, wonder, and reverence experienced in a beautiful natural place such as the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. The Rotunda is a work of art itself, and the feeling makes me think of a statement from painter Paul Cezanne: "Art is a harmony parallel with nature." I suspect the In a New Light artists have discovered that harmony, and they are sharing it with all of us. Enjoy the photos below.

I would like to extend a special thanks to the National Park Service, the Wisconsin Arts Board, and the Capitol Police for making the Rotunda exhibition a reality. I would also like to thank Courtney Georgia, a UW-Green Bay student visiting the Rotunda who ended up volunteering her time to set up much of the exhibit. That sense of kindness and giving among the community has been the driving force behind In a New Light since its inception.

-Ben Thwaits, Project Leader

To the Capitol!

2011-01-07T08:17:00.000-08:00

The In a New Light exhibit has been on a busy and exciting journey over the last few months, and on January 10, the journey continues to its biggest destination yet:  the main floor of the Capitol Rotunda in Madison. What an honor!  All twenty six framed photos will be on display in the Capitol building January 10-22.

The exhibit will be travelling to Madison from Wausau, where it was warmly welcomed in the Ahrsbrak Gallery at UW-Marathon County for over a month. HERE is a press release from the exhibition.  It was even featured in a news segment on WAOW television! Thanks to Brittany Earl for putting together a great piece. Although the video clip is no longer avaiable, HERE is a news release from the segment. Special thanks to Jean Greenwood, Judi Witkopf, Diana Budde, and Patti Thwaits for making the exhibit possible.

In other news, be sure to check out the In a New Light WEBSITE. You can view nearly 100 photos from the project, artist biographies, and support the project.

Please take a look at video on the front page of the National Park Foundation website.   This exposure is such an honor.

And, stay tuned. We've been working with A&I Books out of Hollywood, CA, to publish an In a New Light coffee table book. The book is currently on the presses, and will be out very soon. Keep an eye on the website and this blog for an announcement of the book's availiblility.

In the midst of the exhibit's grand journey, a new league of young photographers at Northwest Passage has been quitely in training along the snowy banks of the Namekagon and St. Croix Rivers. It struck me how relatively little winter work most nature photographers do. But the photographic opportunities remain endless this time of year. Despite the challenges of deep snow and frozen waters, the boys have been creating stunning photographs that capture a new kind of beauty not previously seen in the project. The starkness and relative simplicity of the winter landcape lends itself to high photographic drama.  Enjoy a sample below.

"Fountain of Serenity"

by Will, 16

Photography helps me escape from reality by looking at life through a lense. Seeing what I can do through pictures helps me think about what I can accomplish If I put my mind to it.

"Curious Bluejay"

by Raequon, 16

I fell in love with photography because I felt that it’s one of the only things that’s good for me, and I want to keep pursuing my dreams of becoming a professional photographer.

"Winter Berries"

by Ronnie, 16

This picture is easily summed up. It is just a way to show how amazing the world can be if you just take the time to look for the beauty.

"Screaming Sky"

by Kolten, 14

"Photography has helped me channel my anger into something healthy."

"Easy to Break"

by Nate, 15

"I sometime feel that I am easy to break. I flip over little things that later I regret doing. That’s why I took this picture. It relates to me a lot. I think taking pictures really helps me wit my anger and some of my other problems."

"Sunrise at Schaefer Cabin"
by Alex, 14

As the sun comes up, this scene becomes more beautiful. When I took this picture, I thought its one of a kind. It makes me think about how my time at NWP is almost over, and I am still the same person from when I started, but I'm also different now.

The Exhibit Opens!

2010-09-24T12:03:00.000-07:00

Six months. Hundreds of hours on the river. Tens of thousands of shutter clicks. Twenty six young transformed into master nature photographers. It all culminates today in the opening of the "In a New Light" photo exhibit at the National Park Service visitor center in St. Croix Falls. Please come and witness the story. The exhibit will be in St. Croix Falls until October 25, when it will then proceed on its journey to Wausau, Madison, Cable, and Spooner. CLICK HERE to read the press release for more information.

The last several weeks have been a whirlwind of activity as we have prepared for the exhibit, and the kids have handled every step of the process. Take a look at their journey.

-Ben Thwaits, Project Leader

Black Iris Gallery and Custom Framing owner JoAnn Martin shows the boys that math actually comes in handy in real life. JoAnn and Bill LaPorte of Black Iris graciously opened their shop to us and taught us the secrets of professional matting and framing. They were incredibly patient, kind, and helpful through every step of the process.

Knee-deep in frames.

Chris puts some elbow grease into the mat cutter.

Bill LaPorte teaches Cody the finer points of dust removal.

Dakota is looking quite comfortable next to the "Professional Picture Framers Association" apron.

Cody measures out frame locations on the St. Croix River Visitor Center wall.

NPS staff Jeff Carlstrom and Jon Books stand with Kayden and Cody (looking tired but fulfilled) after a day spent hanging the exhibit. Job well done, gentlemen.

Busily at Work

2010-08-30T13:23:00.000-07:00

Although it's been a few weeks since the last blog post, the cameras have been busily at work. In the meantime, we have started preparations for a large photography exhibit that will be installed at the NPS St. Croix Falls visitor center on September 24. Be sure to stop by!  The exhibit will later travel to Wausau, Madison, Cable, and Spooner. Stay tuned for details.

We extend a special thanks to craftsman Steven Zimmerman of Duluth, who just put the finishing touches on handmade oak frames in which the photos will be displayed.  Each frame is a work of art in itself.

In a couple weeks, we'll be heading to Black Iris Gallery in Spooner for a day of matting and framing our photos under the instruction of professional framer JoAnn Martin.  We'll post photos from our day at the gallery.

In the midst of all the exhibit planning, we are still finding time to seek refuge in the peaceful comfort of the Riverway, cameras in hand. Below are a few photos from the last couple weeks.

-Ben Thwaits, Project Leader

"This photo made me have a whole new perspective on this creature. I would have normally thought it's just a silly frog. But if you really look at it, and feel it looking back at you, it's a beautiful creature." Photo called "A New Perspective" by Cody, age 16.

"I like this picture because it's in really good focus, and I remember having to sneak up on it step by step to get really close." Photo called "Butterfly in the Leaves" by Jordan, age 17.

"This picture is half scary and half beautiful at the same time." Photo called "Snake on the Shore" by Logan, age 12

"These flowers are nice. They stick out like myself. And they're small, but they have a lot of potential." Photo called "Potential" by Chris, age 15.

"I like this picture because it looks like this toad is playing hide and seek." Photo called "Hiding Toad" by Kayden, age 14

45 Degrees of Gratitude

2010-08-09T22:03:00.000-07:00

"Many go fishing all their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after." – Henry David Thoreau

This past Friday, fly fishing guides Tom Bowers and Jeff Butler of 45 Degrees North Fly Fishing Company donated a day of guided fishing and nature photography on the St. Croix River to two In a New Light participants. While the boys caught beautiful smallmouth bass and captured amazing photos, the day turned out to be about something much more profound than fish and photos. It was about the way the boys hung on to every word the guides spoke, and how their faces cemented into perpetual grins. It was about the sense of solemn reverence Tom and Jeff expressed toward the river, and the passionate way they extolled its beauty and our need to protect it. It was about the meditative, rhythmic hum of line cutting through air as the boys became conductors of their own fly rod sonatas. At the hands of a river and two of its sages, a couple young lives were forever changed. What an incredible gift. Thank you Tom, Jeff, and Kathy.

Jordan and Nick with the 45 Degrees North family before hitting the water. Their hospitality was heartwarming.

Nick uses his photographic mastery to capture Jordan's emerging fly casting mastery.

"It was amazing" said Jordan. "It would be pretty cool if I could be a fly fishing guide someday." He goes on to explain, "There is something different about flyfishing. It's not just about hauling fish in like regular fishing. There is something much more calming about it." Photo by Nick, age 15.

Guide Jeff Butler explains the finer points of bass poppers.

Nick and Jeff celebrate Nick's first fish on a flyrod. Nick's knees were shaking for literally an hour after the battle. "I have to figure out how to buy a fly rod as soon as possible. I can see doing this for the rest of my life," Nick explained.

Guide and 45 Degrees North owner Tom Bowers sends the boys away with parting words of wisdom. Notice the grins.

Elusive Quarry

2010-07-30T12:58:00.000-07:00

Badgers are mysterious. Despite their ubiquitous presence in Wisconsin sports culture, these shy creatures are rarely seen in the wild. For this reason, wild badgers seem to carry with them an almost mythical aura shared by the likes of wolves and mountain lions. And a badger's paradoxical personality of extreme shyness and extreme ferocity helps add to the mythology. This week, we broke through the myth. On an excursion to the Dry Landing area of the Upper St. Croix, we got a fleeting glimpse of a badger as it ventured out of it's burrow to check us out. Thanks to a steady hand and quick trigger finger, Jordan was able to capture a photo. It was a thrilling experience for everyone. Below are also some other photos from this week.

-Ben Thwaits, project leader

"When I first saw the badger, I was amazed and very excited. Once I captured the photo, I started to think of how much it's like me. It spends most of its time burrowed in its hole hiding from the world. But now I am feeling more like an eagle, spreading my wings and soaring to new heights to find a better life." -Jordan, age 17.

"This photo really gets to me because of my struggles with addiction. The only way to explain it is that it shows me a different kind of life--a life where creatures live free and how happy life can really be if you want it to be. This eagle and other creatures out there have to survive death and life, and they have to protect themselves and who they love, just like us people of the world have to do." Photo called "Lifting Off" by Cody, age 16

"Underwater Mystery" by Logan, age 12. The photo was taken with a half-submerged underwater camera.

"River over Rocks" by Kayden, age 14. Kayden is starting to master artistic blur effects using slow shutter speeds.

Expedition Success

2010-07-23T11:02:00.000-07:00

One week. Torrential rain. Miles of bushwacking. Early mornings. 2400 photos. One amazing experience. That sums up last week's photography expedition of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. Exploring was the name of the game. We hiked and paddled the stretch from Gordon Dam to CCC Landing, then drove south and explored the backwaters and dalles between St. Croix Falls and Somerset, and finally we ended the trip by exploring the Upper Namekagon between Namekagon Dam and Pacwawong Dam.

What made this trip truly unique was the manner in which the boys got to experience the river. Most people experience the Riverway from the seat of a canoe. However, we have discovered over the last few months that photos area easiest to create from the river banks. When you slow down, photos begin to emerge that you would otherwise miss: a bee on a flower, the playful way water trickles over some rocks, a songbird resting in the shadows. It is from this place of stillness and patience that the deeper spirit of the river begins to reveal itself, and we tried to maximize such opportunities for ourselves on this expedition. The experience was more than can be described in words, so I'm thankful this a photo blog. Below is but a small sample of the amazing photos the boys created last week.

I want to extend a special thanks to NWP staff members Tim Eckert and Jason Greatsinger for making this venture a success. Jason was able to capture some amazing video, Tim proved to be the most talented fish filleter I have ever met, and both were passionately dedicated to the cause.

-Ben Thwaits, project leader.

"I love this picture because when I took it, the ducks got so comfortable with me. I was able to get really close, and it almost seems like you can reach through the photo and pet them." -Devante, age 16.

Devante revels in the feeling of a good shot near Namekagon Dam at sunset.

Life is like a sunset

Beautiful and quick

Never knowing when it will be laid to rest

So I take this life and try my best

But always seem to do the worst.

To get through this there needs to be more

Of the things that make me feel whole

-Photo and poem by Lee, age 16.

Lee gets acquainted with a new friend near Buckley Creek Camp on the Upper St. Croix.

"I took this picture as the sun was setting. I snapped the picture knowing that the sun would reflect off the water. This picture means a lot to me because it shows that if something shines on you, you can shine it right back and make it more brilliant and peaceful." -Matt, age 15.

Matt settles in for some low-light photos at Pacwawong Dam.

"This picture was taken at Interstate Park, near St. Croix Falls, which is my hometown. For me, the river is a place I go to fish and relax and get away from it all. I just loved being on top of this cliff looking down on the river with the beautful trees and sky. It makes me feel at one with all the beauty of nature." -Mike, age 17.

Mike get up close and personal with a turks-cap lily on the Upper St. Croix.

"I was taking a picture of a lily pad as we were floating in a canoe a couple miles below Namekagon Dam. I looked up and saw the the deer walking real slow. I was so excited, and I was able to get a picture! She probably was wondering "What on earth are these people doing?" but she didn't seem scared. When she got to the other side of the river, she just layed down in the grass and looked like she was napping. It was an amazing experience to see." -Travis, age 13.

"I call this picture "Streaming Life." I was laying in the water at Pacwawong Dam to get the shot, and I was worried I wouldn't get it to work before it got dark. But I knew I had to keep trying. I was using a 15 second shutter speed and tripod to get that blurred look of the water I was going for. I finally got just the right shot. To me, this picture shows that the river is full of energy, full of life in a constant flow. And I feel like my life is just like the river--I have all this energy, and my life is now just beginning for the first time." -Derek, age 17.

Derek always did whatever it took to get the shot. Here, he sits in the current as Jason looks on with the video camera.

Expedition!

2010-07-09T10:11:00.000-07:00

Every plot needs a climax. Monday, July, 12 will represent the climax of “In a New Light” to date. Accompanied by three staff, six of the boys (DeVante, Matt, Mike, Travis, Derek, and Lee) will embark on a one-week photographic expedition of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway with the mission of capturing its hidden secrets on film. We will seek out the most beautiful, sublime, and mysterious areas of the Riverway, immerse ourselves in the spirit of these places, and emerge with photos to share with the world. We will crawl through swamps, bushwack through dense forests, and paddle many miles to reach our destinations. Staff member Jason Greatsinger, also co-owner of Black Ice Outdoor Productions, will be videoing our expedition in its entirety. This is the stuff that life-changing experiences are made of.

We would like to extend a heart-felt thanks to Interstate Batteries for donating batteries for this expedition, which will be invaluable in minimizing the time we must retreat to civilization to recharge our equipment.

-Ben Thwaits, Project Leader

Becoming Artists

2010-07-09T09:36:00.000-07:00

The group of five young men who joined our program about 40 days ago (Jordan, Kayden, Dakota, Logan, and Cody) are quickly approaching the half-way point in their journeys as photographers. By now, they have learned the fundamentals of operating the equipment, and are just beginning to to master the process of translating those technical skills into artistic expression. If past groups are an accurate indicator, we will now begin to see stunning artistic growth as each learns to percieve his camera not just as a collection of buttons and lenses, but as a powerful emotional conduit. Enjoy this group's selection of photos below.

"Orange Bug" by Logan, age 12.

"Lonely Lily" by Kayden, age 13.

"Painted Turtle" by Jordan, age 17

"Green Life" by Dakota, age 14

"Taking Flight" by Cody, age 15

Power and Metaphor

2010-06-27T21:20:00.000-07:00

Susan Sontag captured it best when she wrote in her essay, On Photography: "To photograph is to appropriate the thing being photographed. It means putting oneself into a certain relation to the world that feels like knowledge--and, therefore, like power."

Just as the boys put themselves in positions of power by deciding, among infinite possibilities, which sights are worthy of their lenses, they also establish control by deciding what those photos mean. Nature provides the richest source of metaphors imaginable, and the boys have become fluent in interpreting these metaphors to better understand themselves, their struggles, and their successes. Below are photos and interpretations from last week's excusion on the Upper St. Croix River.

"When I first saw this scene, I only saw one bird. I went to grab my camera, and when I came back there were two. The mother had come in to give some insects to the father to feed their babies in a nest close by. They just sat there for a while and let me get pictures. For me, this picture makes me think that I just want to be a good father some day, and change my life so I can take good care of my kids." -Photo called "Yellow Bellied Sapsucker Parents" by Mike, age 17

"To me, this dragonfly symbolizes hope, and also brings a smile to my face. It is so fragile and delicate, but so beautiful at the same time, and when it flies it is so fast and powerful. We all have many sides." -Photo called "Green Dragonfly" by DeVante, age 16

"I was fishing when I spotted this spider. It was the size of a tennis ball! Most people would be scared, but I was just amazed, and knew it would make an awesome picture so I grabbed my camera. I felt amazed to watch a spider walking on water." -Photo called "Spider on Water" by Travis, age 13.

"In this photo I see a calm, settled rock sitting in the middle of chaos as the river smashes against it. It's just like my life. I used to feel like the river smashing against the rock, but now I'm the rock sitting calmly as the river flows around it." -Photo called "Rock in the River" by Derek, age 17.

The artist intends these two pictures to be presented as a pair. "The fish remids me of my life - hazy and unclear. Sometimes I think that's just the way life is, but other times I just want things to be clear like the flower. But I don't always know how to do it." -Lee, age 15

Reverence

2010-06-20T21:35:00.000-07:00

Last week, we explored some of the smaller, more intimate waters of the upper Namekagon River. The moment we stepped out of the van, I was struck by how particularly focused and silent the boys were. There was a hushed, almost heavy mood within the group as they each stalked their own masterpieces. It was that same sense one feels in art galleries or cathedrals or museums: that there is something special about the place, and it just wouldn’t feel right to talk loudly or move quickly. I think the word for it is reverence. The Namekagon’s galleries of current and cathedrals of pine elicited the strongest sense of reverence among the boys that I have witnessed yet in the project. Here is a sample of last week’s photos.
-Ben Thwaits, Project Leader.

At many points in my life
I’ve struggled to stand against the wave.
When the wave comes
I stand waiting.
It’s building up taller than life.
When the wave gets close to me
I stand my ground
And wait to fall and tip over.
But now I stand
and face the struggles of life.
And after the wave flows by me
I look back
and see the mistakes I have made.

Photo and poem called "Facing the Wave" by Mike, age 17.

"We were driving back from our day on the river, and Chris spotted the bear cub. We started taking pictures from the van, and the bear seemed calm, so we got out to get better shots. I was pretty scared because I thought mama may be close. When I got out of the van, I made the grunting noise that a mama bear would use to comfort it's cub, and when I did that, the bear turned and looked at me and I got the shot. I was shaking the whole time!!" -Derek, age 17. Photo titled "The Bear."

Photo called "Rapids" by Matt, age 15. Taken in the rapids below Pacwawong Dam.

"I was walking along the river and I saw this butterfly, and I thought it would be a good shot. It felt really good to take this photo, but I can't explain why. I just feel amazed that I was able to get this shot." -Travis, age 13. Photo called "Resting butterfly."

Photo titled "The Iris" by DeVante, age 16.

I’m your reflection, can't you see
Though I'm only there in the brightness
Going through life with distortion and ease
Now I can see that the mirror’s a blur
And you never were who I hope to be
Never now, never then, will I want to be
Your reflection once again
Now I see what I'm meant to be
Nothing like you and more like me.

Photo and poem called "Reflection" by Lee, age 15.

Day with a Ranger

2010-06-13T19:26:00.000-07:00

We recently had the privilege and honor of a spending a morning on the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway with NPS Interpretive Ranger Joan Jacobowski. Ms. Jacobowski is an expert in, among many things, plants and wildflowers, and we were given a glimpse into her incredible depth of knowledge. She could tell us about the names, natural history, and traditional uses of virtually any plant or flower we saw. Her guidance complemented the boys' photography perfectly, and she greatly enriched their connections to the subjects they were photographing. Her enthusiasm was absolutely contagious! We had a blast, and can't wait for our next excursion with Ranger Jacobowski.

-Ben Thwaits, Project Leader

Ranger Jacobowski admires one of DeVante's photos.

Ranger Jacobowski tells Mike about irises along the riverbank as Derek and DeVante photograph them.

Lee gets down and dirty for some closeup shots.

The boys explore Olson Prairie for photos as In a New Light project assistant Chris Flottum looks on with the video camera. This prairie was part of a controlled burn about a month ago, and newly emerging plant life made for some stunning images.

Mike defies the notion that Hawkweed is "just a weed" by using it as the subject for some beautiful photos.

Call for Cameras

2010-06-09T21:04:00.000-07:00

We are excited to announce that we have started a used camera donation program. "In a New Light" is having a profoundly positive impact on the lives of participants, and we want to give them the opportunity to pursue their new found passion when they leave our 90-day program. Your used cameras will make this happen. CLICK HERE to learn how to donate.

Coming Into Their Own

2010-06-07T19:05:00.000-07:00

We had time for only one photography excursion last week, but it was one of the most productive days this project has seen yet. After spending the morning targeting eagle photos on land adjacent to Riverside Landing on the St. Croix River accompanied by NWPII staff member Ben Altrichter, we next explored the beautiful Schoen Park Landing. This group of young men (DeVante, Lee, Travis, Mike, Derek, and Matt), who are now half way though their 90 days in the program, are really beginning to come into their own as artists. Individual styles are beginning to emerge, and they are internalizing how to alter shutter speed, aperture, and use polarizing filters to achieve their visions. Exciting times lie ahead for this group! Below are a sample of photos, poems, and thoughts from last week's adventure.

-Ben Thwaits, Project Leader

This photo is called "A Fish's Perspective." We were exploring the river, and I saw a beautiful flower hang over the creek so I grabbed the underwater camera and tried something new. I put the camera underwater and aimed it up at the flowers. And shizam! A masterpiece! This picture reminds me of life blured and disoriented, but beautiful and amazing at the same time. -Lee, age 15.

This flower is like my life
It sprouted from a seed
Living to see day after day
Growing to see the beautiful trees
Feeling the breeze along the side of me
I stand alone
But I stand strong on my roots
Waiting for the sunlight to make me grow

Photo and Poem titled "Waiting to Grow" by Mike, age 16.

Look at the water
See how it flows,
It bends, it shallows, and holes.

Watch the trees,
Move and sway,
Just like your life,
As it goes your way.

The river is so dark,
But can never stop
The flow, the life
The way that it rocks.

Now think of your life,
The rhythm, the rhyme.
It belongs to you,
Till the end of time.

Photo and poem titled "The River Flows" by Matt, age 15.

Life is like a flower,
it blossoms so beautiful and bright.
But sometimes it’s hard to shine
without the sunlight.
This flower is so strong
it continues to grow and grow
but it goes nowhere, as it’s pinned to the floor.
As the years pass
no one hears it cry.
Alone the flower will live
And alone the flower will die.

Poem and Photo titled "The Flower" by DeVante, age 16.

Photo called "Master Peace" by DeVante, age 16.

Bittersweet

2010-05-30T20:55:00.000-07:00

Today, four young men are embarking on their final week at Northwest Passage II. But this won't be just another week - they will be navigating the rapids and soaking in the beauty of the wild Flambeau River for their wilderness "Venture," our program's capstone experience. Their departure is truly bittersweet for the "In a New Light" project. While we are thrilled to see them moving on to new and hopeful futures, we will greatly miss their photography. This was the first group to participate in "In a New Light" for the full 90 days of their time at NWP, and they set an astonishingly high standard for photographic skill and creativity. Below are photos taken within the last week by each of the departing participicants, accompanied by thoughts about their photos. We wish you guys all the best!

To me, this photo, called "The Arguing Bird," shows that red-winged black bird has anger problems like me. The geese think the black bird is mean and don’t want any problems so they swim away. -Trevor, age 15.

I had had a rough day the day before, and was taking a little time for myself. I was walking on a rock bed close to the bank of the river, and I saw a clam shell gleaming under the water. It was bright and shining and… just out there! I had the water proof camera, so I went after it and took some shots. When the light reflected off the bottom and made the patterns I couldn’t help myself. I focus a lot on details, so when I see webs of light reflecting off the bed of a river, how could I stop myself from getting this shot?! I call it "Ripple Shell." -Aarin, age 16

I call this photo "Rush." I saw the water rushing over rocks in the river and decided to slow my shutter speed to see how a photo would turn out. When I look at this picture I feel a rush of excitement--it was so beautiful and looks exhilarating! -Devin, age 15

I call this picture "Nothing Yet Everything." We saw this baby deer alone in the trees. I see this picture and I see something that has no family, that has nothing. But yet, he has everything. He has life, he has freedom, and he has time. -Nick, age 14

Wilderness, Wood Ticks, and Wonder on the Upper St. Croix.

2010-05-17T19:55:00.000-07:00

We recently took a long hike along the St. Croix River just downstream from Gordon Dam. What a spectacularly wild area. The kids were eager and focused the entire time, despite having to wade across across small streams and deal with more wood ticks than we could attempt to count. The day was cloudy and the light was drab, so we focused on close-up shots rather than scenic landscapes. The quality of photos these young men captured tells the story of their determination better than words ever could. Enjoy.

Lee spent about 10 minutes stalking this grasshopper with the stealth of seasoned hunter. He finally was able to get within about a foot to capture this image.

Devin captured this stunner he calls "Diamonds in the Grass." He had to lie on his stomach in wet grass to get the right angle, but that's a small sacrifice when a scene like this present itself.

Aarin has an uncanny knack for making photos that convey a sense of movement. This is one he calls simply "Ripples," and he made it by dropping pebbles in the water and then quickly taking the shot.

Mike was fortunate enough to stumble upon this feather, and the shot was simple and straightforward. These kids are quickly learning the simplest images are sometimes the most powerful.

One of our key lessons is to try to convey a sense of layers and depth in our photos. DeVante has learned this concept particularly well, and proves it with photos like this.

Twitter and Press Release

2010-05-14T08:43:00.000-07:00

Be sure to follow us on Twitter! Our name is InaNewLight. Find us at www.twitter.com/InaNewLight

We also just learned that In a New Light was one of only 3 America's Best Idea grantees featured in a national press release just sent out by the NPF. Here's the article at Yahoo News.

In the Media

2010-05-11T08:59:00.000-07:00

Be sure to check out some recent media attention "In a New Light" has received:

Here is the offical NPS Press Release

An article in the Spooner Advocate This same article was also published in the Sawyer County Record.

An article in the Washburn County Register

An article in the Superior Telegram

An article in PMA Newsline

Thanks to all the members of the press helping this project gain exposure!

Renaissance

2010-05-08T20:35:00.000-07:00

From a photographer's perspective, the last few weeks have been a renaissance. With spring's arrival, photo opportunities now seem to be everywhere. The young photographers, who learned to take photos in a brown, defoliated landscape, now look like kids in a candy store as they move their lenses from flower to flower. With lush riverbanks returning, we can finally start focusing on broad, landscape shots of the river. As always, the boys continue to amaze everyone with the photos they are producing. Here are some recent examples:

This striking image of a marsh marigold was taken by Craig, age 13, at Shoen Park Landing on the St. Croix River. A wide aperture was used to create a shallow depth of field, blurring the sparkling river in the background.

Aarin, age 15, found "sweet light" backlighting these newly emerged leaves on the banks of the St. Croix at McDowell Landing.

Trevor, age 15, has mastered slow shutter speed techniques to capture the effect of flowing water. He also used a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water.

This image was taken about a month ago, but we wanted to be sure to post it. It was taken by Travis, age 16, near McDowell Landing. We were driving down River Road when we spotted the bears and screeched to stop. Although 5 boys were took photos, this was the only sharp image--it was pretty tough to keeps hands steady for this one. Seeing these bears was a truly memorable experience for everyone. One interesting note: the mother bear is missing the hair on her face. We zoomed in on the photo to make sure, and it is not just light-colored hair--she is bald. Has anyone out there seen this before or know what might be the cause?

Chris Stein, superintendent of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, asked us to put together a book of photos to show the leaders of the National Park Foundation when he sees them this month at a meeting in Washington DC. What an honor! Here is the cover of the book. We'd like to thank White House Custom Colour in Eagan, MN for creating an exceptional press-printed book.

Wecome to our blog!

2010-04-14T08:34:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the "In a New Light" project blog! This is the first of many weekly posts containing the latest updates from our photo excursions on the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. Below are a couple examples of some of the photos we have created during the first few weeks of the project. Enjoy, and stay tuned for much more to come. -The Artists at Northwest Passage

"Red Rocks," a photo taken near Scott Bridge on the St. Croix River. A slow shutter speed was used to blur foam swept in the current.

"Red Squirrel" A photo taken near CCC Bridge Landing on the St. Croix River