Then and Now

By Deborah Downes

10 Apr 2012

While playing around with three photo editing programs, I discovered a way to show more of what I felt while capturing certain Italian scenes: a deep connection to the past, as well as to the sensual present. I think of some of the results as a blend of vintage and new postcards, ones either kept and tucked away in a keepsake box or sent to a beloved family member or friend. Others I imagine as paintings speaking of distant ages with bits of the present magically worked in.

About a week before I left the old Italian farm house my husband and I lived in, an American woman friend we met in the Italian village of Spoleto, stayed with us for a couple of days. She's a talented artist with a strong background in marketing. When she spotted the vintage-like photos in my office, she got excited. We're now working on ways to market those images and many more. Perhaps nothing will come of it other than a strengthening of our friendship, but then again what started out as just a time of creative play could end up a viable business.

Castle of Saint or Sinner?

On a Distant Hill

Splash of Gold

Storm Over Spoleto (For my dear friend Julie)

Across a Field

Cesi of Past and Present

Springtime in Tuscany

Heavenly Valley

Clouds Over San Galgano

Whispering Cypress (For Mary Ann)

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11 responses

Saroj Swain gave props (10 Apr 2012):
really nice!!! vote friend.....
John Linton gave props (11 Apr 2012):
Hell YEAH! Rad!
Michele Wambaugh said (11 Apr 2012):
This is a great story! voted. Very beautifully done!
Carol Arntsen Masiak gave props (11 Apr 2012):
LOVE...voted!
Judy and Wayne Wanamaker gave props (12 Apr 2012):
A fantastic essay! Prayers for the success of your new business. I love the unique style you have developed. These are exquisitly beautiful. voted.
James Wiley gave props (12 Apr 2012):
Definitely voted. Very interestng story and quite a unique concept!
Kim Bullock gave props (12 Apr 2012):
Fantastic photos! I voted!
Fred Downes said (14 Apr 2012):
Great photos and story!
Erin Golsen said (14 Apr 2012):
Beautiful! So atmospheric.
Litz Go gave props (18 Apr 2012):
congratulations and good luck, Deb! This photo essay if fabulous!
Andrea Petersen gave props (21 Apr 2012):
Your work is beautiful, Deborah and I wish you lots of success on your venture...You have my vote!