24
Oct 11

Is Laura OK?

George W and Laura Bush with Nolan Ryan, president and CEO of the Texas Rangers at Game Three of the 2011 World Series

As I watched game 3 of the 2011 World Series, I observed something interesting.

It started whenever the camera flashed on a Texas Ranger warming up in the on-deck circle. Over his right shoulder, slightly obscured by fencing, I’d spot a catatonically still Laura Bush with a twitching and animated George next to her. Once after some nifty Ranger play the camera caught Bush smirkily high-fiving Ranger owner, Nolan Ryan. But Laura just sat there like a Stepford Wife, with a sweet(?) smile pasted on her face.

W and Nolan were enjoying the game immensely, but I think poor Laura was there out of some sense of duty… the dutiful Southern wife.

I really wondered if she is OK.

This would be a fun photo to caption… Hmmmm!


24
Oct 11

Wine, Wine, Wine


24
Oct 11

Hendrik Kerstens

Dutch photographer Hendrik Kerstens has discovered a wonderful niche for his photography.

His 17th-century Dutch Masters style of portraiture is both fascinating and provocative. The contrast between the incredibly formal, beautifully lit poses and the unexpected modern elements is refreshingly original.

In this photo, he replaces the white hat seen in old Dutch paintings with the ubiquitous white plastic shopping bag. He might also use a dinner napkin or a hoodie sweatshirt.

The contrasts charge his portraits with an undercurrent of sly wittiness.

His precise style and the feeling he creates is nothing short of amazing. His ability to bring out his model’s best side is a true gift. His portraits leave one with a sense of haunting; a desire to search deeper for the story behind the scene.

His daughter, Paula, is his model of choice.

See more of his works in this gallery

Many thanks to Nan B. for sharing this amazing photographer with me.