Hillsman Jackson: 2010 reflections

As 2010 draws to a close, I would like to reflect on the past year as president of your chapter. We have increased our membership and I believe that it is a direct reflection on the quality events we have presented. A big thanks to my board who worked ever so hard to produce some great shows. Everything from the 100-ppi pixel portfolio happy hours to the final party of the year was a success! We started the year with North Texas Women in Photography, which featured Cheryl Diaz Meyer, Allison V. Smith, Jean Ann Bybee, and Susan Kae Grant showing work and sharing stories about their lives in the very demanding world of photography.

Our chapter orchestrated a juried photo exhibit, which brought members to Dallas from Oklahoma and Arkansas. With the support of ASMP National we had a great panel discussion with two top photographers, Jonathon Chapman of Minneapolis and our own Stewart Cohen, talking about their transition from still photography to video. A big thanks to them and to the evening’s moderator, Richard Pruitt! We had great feedback on in some popular hands-on events that I hear will continue into the next year.

So, the programming for 2011 promises to be even better! Planned events include: a portfolio workshop, studio tours, and a workflow workshop. Robert Hart, our membership chair is working on an evening featuring Joe McNally. We also are planning to retool our website. If you have any ideas for programming, let us know. I also would like to extend an invitation to all members in outlying regions. Give us a ring whenever you are in town, and make plans to attend an event or a board meeting in the coming year. I know you will benefit from these programs and the networking opportunities.

Our chapter has grown in the last couple of years and we have not been alone. We have had help from some really great people such as Victoria Clary, Gary McCoy, and Julie Janik of Art Institute of Dallas. Frank Campagna’s Kettle Gallery was the perfect space for our 30X30 photography exhibit. Spook Bolt has opened his studio space up to us on more than one occasion, and without Randy Anderson sharing his studio space for our Christmas party, I doubt if it would have had its sparkle. John Dunne said it best: “No man is an island.” I would like to applaud all of the friends of ASMP Dallas for your vital role in our success.

As an endnote, I would also like to remember the passing of two really beautiful gentlemen who did a lot for ASMP Dallas: Charlie Freeman and Dan Hatzenbuehler. Both had very long careers here in Dallas and both touched so many lives, Charlie as an instructor at AI, Dallas, and Dan as an active member of the ASMP board until the end. Gentlemen, you were the best and we miss you.

I wish for all of us a very joyous and safe holiday season. Please remember those who are still serving the United States in our armed forces; they are out there for us. Here’s to the promise of continued success and growth in 2011!