#GetOutside

This past weekend (Friday-Monday) I was out enjoying the trails at Rezter Nature Center out in Waukesha. Four days of hikes = good for the mind and body. I shared a few of these images on Instagram. Follow me there if ya like. https://www.instagram.com/stefbartzphoto/

Miss Della Wells

  Portrait by Stephanie Bartz- all other images pulled from the web

I've been a fan of Milwaukee self-taught artist, Della Wells, since the moment I saw her collage style images years ago. I love her use of color and materials to tell stories. I proudly own a small art piece and doll. Plus, conversations with Della leave me wanting more time to talk.

She has been in shows around the country and now is one of a dozen local artists chosen to be a part of the new Milwaukee Bucks arena. https://www.jsonline.com/story/sports/nba/bucks/2018/03/09/new-milwaukee-bucks-arena-feature-work-della-wells-dozens-other-artists/394532002/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6HwWpHA-Lc

Logan in the Snow

Challenge: dogs that  wander off if unleashed. Solution: use heavy duty rope attached to a 30 pound Kettelbell that rarely gets any use! In theory that was a genius plan, in reality it worked OK since this sweet & playful pup, Logan, was strong enough to drag the weight all over the place. It did keep her from running off into the woods so that she could play fetch with their parents. I also sought out a quiet location to help avoid distractions.

I love snow as a backdrop to portraits.

Once in a Lifetime

... “once in a lifetime” seems to fit when it comes to pop-up dinners... and sometimes, if you’re lucky - LOVE. Chef Ana is combining the two for a Valentines Evening event at Relic’s Vintage Warehouse. 

http://www.kasana-mke.com/valentines-evening

Day of Action 2018

           

       My interactive sign in the crowd- captured by photo journalist
       Lee Matz.



Woman's 2nd Anniversary DOA- Jan. 20, 2018 in Milwaukee - the weekend ALL over the country women, men, kids, LGBTQ, and dogs marched in a peaceful demonstration. 

My interactive sign was inspired by the WW comics and 80s BIG hair.

I think this perfectly sums up why there is another women's March this Saturday. " The new women's movement focuses whole-heartedly on women (and families) of color (WOC). Growing up in Milwaukee, one of the most segregated cities in the country, and one of the poorest as well, I have witnessed the inequality over and over again in my lifetime. The Women's March is addressing many issues besides discrimination, ie: sexual harassment, equal pay, LGBTQ issues, inequality in education. Perhaps you and your families have been fortunate enough not to have experienced the disparities. IF that is the case, all the more reason I invite both of you to join your sisters in the movement, the March, and the continuing action that we are participating in together!" 

Written by my friend Jean Wells, in a response to 2 women who think we as women have reached equality.

Elsa - Lil One in a BIG Yard

Elsa and her parents. This lil one had trouble hearing but sure was a sweetie to photograph. Also, her parents were funny and great storytellers, and full of talent. Darla was an opera singer, Mike was in theater, is a great cook, and a fire fighter.

Happy New/NOW Year!

This is the view that I saw after leaving my last wonderful family photo shoot of the year (NYE). My heart is full. I'm truly grateful for ALL of my clients, family, and friends that trusted me to help create new memories and lasting photos this past year.

"Wishing us all a prosperous and healthy new year... may we all find a way to live in balance... Focus on your piece in the puzzle and together we pollinate abundance."   Charlie Koenen is a Milwaukee BeeVangelist- Inventor of the Beepod- making a difference one bee at a time. 
https://www.beepods.com/