My Only Exhibit of the Year (2020)
My normal photo trips and show schedule which would have started in the spring and run until after Labor Day were completely disrupted first by the pandemic and then by the wildfires that hit California and the Western U.S. this summer. On top of that, I assumed the Executive Directorship of the Silicon Valley Open Studios organization in which I have participated for the past 7 years. This has been an all consuming job as the pandemic completely upended the normal Open Studios plan this year, and we pivoted to a virtual event format for the first time. As a result, I have had very little time to devote to my own photography or shows this year.
Fortunately, I did get in a two week trip to Japan late last year before the pandemic began, and got in a short visit to the Napa Valley wine country just before the pandemic hit, so I do have a few additions to my gallery for you to see!
The trip to Japan, my first, was every bit as eye opening and educational as I hoped it might be. Time was divided between cities and countryside: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara; the Izu Peninsula and the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail. History and culture intertwined with landscape and architectural traditions. Unique designs, customs, and cuisine reflecting a viewpoint both ancient and modern. Castles, parks, shrines and temples. Bullet train and immersive digital art. A fascinating mix.
The Silicon Valley Open Studios virtual event (shop.svos.org), which I am currently participating in, has been organized as a benefit for Second Harvest to raise funds for their efforts to feed those impacted during these tough times. All participating artists are contributing a portion of their sales to Second Harvest. This virtual show is open now through November 30 at shop.svos.org, with over 150 artists and 700 artworks offered for sale. Please visit and check it out!
Also please visit my website (stevetoll.zenfolio.com) to see other new additions to my gallery which couldn't be included in the virtual event. I will be contributing 20% of all sales during this period, whether from the SVOS event or from my website, to Second Harvest.
Since we aren't able to meet in person at Open Studios this year, I am available to meet over Zoom to answer any questions or discuss my works - just drop me a note.
So - if you're looking for a special gift for someone this holiday season, stop in and visit me at:
shop.svos.org
stevetoll.zenfolio.com
And please stay safe - I'd like to see you all after things settle down next year, hopefully!