I'll have new never-exhibited work here in a new direction/style...hope to see you there!
CPOP presents: The Seduction of Art
A limited-engagement exhibition from the MidWest Society of Erotic Photography (www.mwsep.com)
Friday • April 17 • 6pm-11pm • 7pm Opening Reception
Saturday • April 18 • 1pm-11pm • 7pm Evening Gala w/ special stringed performance by Dixon
Featuring fine art by: A Owen Layne, AJ Kahn, Allan Teger, Chris Maher, Ckreationz, Dave Levingston, DVS, Eric Cain, Frank Piccolo, Gary Mitchell, Irakly Shanidze, Jim Young, Lisolette Gilcrest, Patricia Izzo and VATO
Gourmet edibles provided by: Silvios and Centerella Inc.
CPOP is located at: 4160 Woodward, Detroit, MI 48226 • 313.833.9901
New York artist Katelan Foisy and Detroit photographer DVS have come together to support the rise against a tragedy that befalls hundreds of thousands of women across the country and around the world...domestic violence. Inspired by DVS' photograph "Sacred Heart", Katelan created a wonderful painting entitled "Nico Elise II" (below) which is now in exhibition at the Femina Potens gallery in San Francisco. Within the spirit of its feminine divine essence, both artists have decided to donate 100% of their proceeds to two shelters for battered women, Looking for My Sister in Detroit and RAINN in New York, in the sincere hope that this small gesture will help those greatly in need.
(From the Family Violence Prevention Fund)
Prevalence of Domestic Violence
Yes, the photos of the DAMNED exhibition, performances and ambiance are now online! Here is a sample:
Visit the DAMNED gallery here:
www.thatdamnedshow.com/gallery
Yes, I'm still busy even after the whole DAMNED show (photos coming soon). Stop by my booth at Exotica (www.myspace.com/exoticaexpo) at iLounge in Pontiac this weekend to say "hello" and grab a couple "I ♥ DVS" cat stickers! Bring me a birthday cookie and I'll give you two! =D
If you can't make the expo, then you better make either the Slick afterparty at Clutch Cargo on Friday or the Skin Two Exotica Ball at Crofoot on Saturday!
The 3 Day Expo will be at CLUTCH CARGOS iLounge, 65 East Huron Pontiac MI 48342 www.clutchcargos.com
- Over 50 Vendor Booths from across North America, adult toys, BDSM furniture, body jewelry, vintage clothing and much more
- Shop for the best in Fetish Wear and Latex Couture
- Model Salon by Exquisite Restraint Couture Corsetry
- 2 days of Erotic Workshops
- Numerous Live Stage Performances
- DJ's spinning ambient, downtempo, lounge
- Celebrity Meet and Greets
- Contests, Giveaways, Live Demos
- Social Tea Parties with French Maids
- Freakshow Fashion show by Grey Gargoyle
**************************************
Friday night's party SLICK! is at CLUTCH CARGOS Main Hall and features:
- Official line launch and fashion show by Frenchy LaRue Latex Couture
- Official line launch of Hilary's Vanity fetish/industrial wear
- Fashion shows by Ego Assassin Latex, Ceres Moon Latex, Leather Realm, and much more!
- Numerous Stage Shows
- BDSM Public Play Stations
- Guest DJ Xris from SMack! New York
- Top guest DJ's from across North America to keep you on the dancefloors
- Rub shoulders with the biggest names in the fetish and erotic industry
- Exclusive VIP Lounge
- Join us for the numerous Afterhours Parties
**************************************
Saturday night's SKIN TWO EXOTICA BALL is at the CROFOOT Ballroom, 1 South Saginaw, Pontiac, MI
featuring live performances by:
- Emily Marilyn and Ruby Luster
- Evil Dolls (Hollywood, CA)
- Chaos Productions
- Miss Pussy Kat
- Pain Tribe
- Vivian Ireene Pierce and Evelyn Rose
- Numerous other live shows by performers yet to be announced
- Ticket Giveaways by Skin Two's Tim Woodward
- Guest DJ Stitch from the band Mushroom Head
- Guest DJ Xris from SMack! New York
- Top guest DJ's from across North America to keep you on the dancefloors
- Exclusive VIP Lounge featuring more intimate shows
- Join us for the numerous Afterhours Parties, including the rumoured poolside party!
Check out DAMNED in Real Detroit this week!
Pick it up at your friendly RD stands everywhere
or view the article online at:
http://www.realdetroitweekly.com
With the full article at:
http://www.realdetroitweekly.com/content/article_4731.shtml
You can still get your DAMNED souvenier tickets at Showtime Clothing in Detroit, Noir Leather) in Royal Oak and V-Male Vintage Clothing.
Or order them online here via PayPal: [ $5 General Tickets | $25 VIP Tickets ]
Visit the DAMNED MySpace page at "www.myspace.com/thatdamnedshow" for details on the show, ticket information, contest giveaways and more!
DAMNED - A Macabre Fine Art Exhibition
Devil's Night - October 30 2008 - Detroit
Tangent Gallery / Hastings St Ballroom
15 Milwaukee St E, Detroit, MI 48202
www.thatdamnedshow.com
Check out DAMNED in Real Detroit this week!
Pick it up at your friendly RD stands everywhere
or view the article online at:
http://www.realdetroitweekly.com
With the full article at:
http://www.realdetroitweekly.com/content/article_4731.shtml
You can still get your DAMNED souvenier tickets at Showtime Clothing in Detroit, Noir Leather in Royal Oak and V-Male Vintage Clothing in Dearborn Heights.
Or order them online here via PayPal: [ $5 General Tickets | $25 VIP Tickets ]
Visit the DAMNED MySpace page at "www.myspace.com/thatdamnedshow" for details on the show, ticket information, contest giveaways and more!
DAMNED - A Macabre Fine Art Exhibition
Devil's Night - October 30 2008 - Detroit
Tangent Gallery / Hastings St Ballroom
15 Milwaukee St E, Detroit, MI 48202
www.thatdamnedshow.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Detroit, MI - On Devil's Night (October 30) 2008 at the Tangent Gallery/Hastings St Ballroom in Detroit, there will be a congregation of 75 of the most malevolent fine art artists from across the nation and overseas to display over 150 of their darkest of creations at DAMNED: A Macabre Fine Art Exhibition (www.thatdamnedshow.com). From Oscar winner HR Giger to the freshest of talent, this sinister assembly will exhibit a diversity of artistries from the deeply depraved to the intensely introspective guaranteed to intrigue, disturb, captivate or repulse. This is not Halloween-themed art but a submergence within the shadowed realms of consciousness within an intimate ambiance of haunting ethereal soundscapes, refined freakshow vignettes and cirque-inspired stage performances.
DAMNED will feature special performances by the tantalizing circus hellion Miss Pussykatt fresh from her "grinder girl" act on NBC's America's Got Talent. Other devilish treats include the femme fatale performance troupe Devil Dolls, new dementias from Satori Circus, disturbingly exotic gallery teasers, Devil Girl hostesses, VIP area with an on-site chef, wine tasting, a gallery store to purchase art and much more! Aurally, the exhibition will be laced with original compositions by Life Toward Twilight and the haunting solo strings of Dixon accompanying the gallery vignettes.
Limited VIP tickets will be available for a most intimate of ambiances with a private two-hour preview of the exhibition with artist reception and special VIP-only vignette performances. Indulgences include an on-site chef courtesy of Centaur Bar with live preparation of delectable edible temptations, an exotic wine tasting compliments of Farmington Hills Wine & Liquor, a bevy of Devil Girl servers and other treats to come. After the preview, VIPs will have full access to the lush private mezzanine overlooking the public exhibition with their own private cash bar, side chef, video feeds and live VIP entertainment throughout the night until 2am...and yes, the Devil Girl servers as well. VIPs also bypass the entrance lines with their own DAMNED special speedy entry!
The DAMNED festivities begin at 7pm with a VIP Preview/Artist Reception with the general public opening at 9pm until 2am. General admission is $6.66 at the door, $5 in advance online or $5 with a canned good donation for the Gleaners Food Bank or the All About Animals no-kill animal rescue. Discounted $5 tickets are also available at Showtime Clothing in Detroit, Noir Leather in Royal Oak and V-Male Vintage Clothing. VIP admission is $33 at the door or $25 in advance online. No Halloween costumes are necessary but red dressy/sexy Devil-wear is greatly encouraged. 18+ welcome.
Visit the DAMNED MySpace page at "www.myspace.com/thatdamnedshow" to get your tickets, enter our ticket giveaways and more!
We hope you join us in celebration as we bring the infamous Detroit institution of Devil's Night back to our city...without the arson, of course.
DAMNED - A Macabre Fine Art Exhibition
Devil's Night - October 30 2008 - Detroit
Tangent Gallery / Hastings St Ballroom
715 Milwaukee St E, Detroit, MI 48202
www.thatdamnedshow.com
It is with broken heart that I announce that Jacob, my dearest friend of 13 years and icon cat of 5, passed away the morning of September 29 2008. He was 15 years old.
He first came into my life from a friend of my sister who could no longer keep him because of a new apartment residence. I had another cat at the time and he was first welcomed by loud hissing and growling. I remember his response of simply ignoring the other cat, walking past and immediately claiming my house his own. His was definitely a quirky nonchalant persona which often resulted in me messing with him to break past this stoic demeanor to provoke reaction.
In 1998 or so, he somehow escaped the house and went missing. I searched everywhere but after one month, I considered him lost forever. I still remember vividly the summer day two months after he disappeared when a mangy black cat scurried past my house on the street...a somewhat familiar one. I called out his name and he stopped, staring for a long moment before running up to me meowing loudly. Since then, he never left my side.
In the recent months, he was diagnosed with hyperactive thyroidism with possible heart disease and was prone to heavy fluid buildup in his lungs. He fought hard to stay with us, dealing with countless tests, lung stints, minor operations and bothersome medications. His final days were difficult to witness as he was no longer was the spirited feline he once was, mostly laying still unmoving with hindered breathing with no appetite. I weighed heavily the guilty thought of taking his fate into my own hands. On his final morning, he raised his head to greet me from his favored sleeping spot and I spent an extra long personal moment with him before I left for work. Within a few hours afterwards, I received a call that he went peacefully in his sleep...as I prayed he would within his home and amongst those who loved him most.
I already miss him dearly. I miss seeing his head in the window waiting for me to come home. I miss him greeting me at the door. I miss his shadowing me everywhere I went in the house. I miss him taking over my lap as soon as I sat in front of the computer. I miss him fetching me his favorite crinkle ball when he decided he wanted to play. I miss him purring contently next to me when I layed in bed to sleep. And I know I'll miss him being nosey while I'm shooting my art.
But I also know he is at peace.
He was cremated later that evening and part of his ashes will be spread amongst the flower bed he always overlooked outside his favorite window.
Be happy, free and forever loved, my dear friend...
(My first photo and thus my first model with my first digital camera in 2004)
It's a busy weekend for me...
Saturday 09/20 Noir Leather's 25th Anniversary Bash @ Crofoot
(as a member of the Syndicati Obscura dark art collective)
Located at Crofoot Ballroom, 1 South Saginaw St, Pontiac, MI
(check out the huge stage and event lineup in the flyer below)
Sunday 09/21 Streetwise Art's Erotic Gallery @ People's Art Festival
(as a member of the MidWest Society of Erotic Photography - MWSEP)
Located at Russell Industrial Ctr, Bldg 2, 1600 Clay Avenue, Detroit, MI
(check out the huge lineup in the flyer below)
I'll have new work to show off in both of them with new prints available for purchase! Or just stop by to say "hi" and get a free "I ♥ DVS" sticker! =P
Here are the flyers and hope to see you there!
As you may have seen in a couple posts back, I hosted an event called the Detroit Erotic Arts Collaborative, a fine art nude/fetish/erotic group shoot held at the Exotica Expo in Detroit. Although I had to coordinate the nearly 100 models and photographers from all over the Midwest, I still found time to shoot a bit. The DEAC, the first of now many to come, marked my first venture away from the confines of my studio and into the chaos of uncontrolled locations. Here are the results:
Model: Lela Rae
Model: Italian Kitten
Model: Nicotine
Model: Nicotine
Model: Nicotine
Model: Nicotine
Model: Orixx
Model: Orixx
Model: Alkemie
Comments/critiques/praises welcome...
A old friend and ex-Detroit burlesque dancer Sparkly Devil will be appearing on LA Ink tonight and next Thursday (March 13 & 20) at 10pm on The Learning Channel (TLC). I photographed her a few years back laying in 3000 red feathers and was contacted by the production company for use of the photo on air in their promos. So, unless I end up on the cutting room floor, check me out on TV...oh yea, and her getting inked too! 
Sign-up for models and photographers are now taking place.
Click the following links for detailed information and the current attendance list:
http://www.modelmayhem.com/p.php?thread_id=260521
http://www.exoticadetroit.com/forums/viewtopic.php?p=1908
Hope to see you there!
I have 12 pieces of art placed on eBay, most new including unseen releases of the images that were featured at the international Dirty Show in February.
This weekend, come stalk me at...
I will have three images on the hallowed walls of the dirty...including these new photographs:
"Shokushu Aijou" - translated from Japanese to 'Tentacle Love'
"Shokushu Aijou" consists of 150 gallons of home-made translucent slime, 120 lbs of real octopus and two wonderful models.
"Baphomet" - whose two hands form the sign of hermetism, expresses the perfect harmony of mercy with justice. The flame of intelligence shining between his horns is the mystic light of the universal balance, the image of the soul elevated above matter, as the flame, whilst being tied to matter, shines above it. The beast's head expresses the horror of the sinner to bear the punishment exclusively in sake of the soul. The erect male genitals symbolizes eternal life while humanity is represented by the two female breasts...the androgyn attributes that unite with the goat because they are one and the same.
"Baphomet" was created using a real goat skull, flaming orb and prosthetic male thingy.
And "Zentai Hejira" taken at Exotic 2 in Detroit, which was promoted here a month back.
If you have never been to the Dirty Show, it is an event not to be missed. 2,000 people each night will gather to view over 250 exhibits of erotic art at it's dirtiest. My work is fortunate to be included alongside erotic art greats like Annie Sprinkle, HR Giger (Alien), Sorayama, Martin HM Shreiber, Bunny Yeager (Bettie Page), Eric Kroll (Fetish Girls), Buck Angel, John U Abrahamson, Jason Beam, Chad Michael Ward, and Peggy Wauters.
For further information and directions, please visit www.dirtyshow.org.
Comments/critique/praise welcome on my new work...
Even if you don't live anywhere near Detroit, I'd deeply appreciate the help in getting my name out there more.
The link is below to register for the poll and the artist section is the top of page 8.
http://www.realdetroitweekly.com/survey/index.php?sid=1
Thank you and feel free to bug your friends to do the same! =)
Every now and then, I like to move away from the intricate artistic sessions and shoot some straight glamour. Some of these are a couple months old, but not previous posted...enjoy.
As some of you have previously read, I held a little photography session with 10 models in Zentai bodysuits at the recent Exotica 2 Expo in Detroit...and here are the results:
"Zentai Taikai" - I saw a small sea of bodies in this image flowing about one another so the title translates from Japanese into "Covered Ocean".
"Zentai Hejira" - I saw an exodus of beings from within darkness towards light. Unfortunately, I couldn't find the Japanese word for "exodus" so I decided to use the Latin "hejira", which means a flight from an undesirable place.
Special thanks to models (in alphabetical order) Amadeus, Chrissy, Dika, Elys3, Farril, Jade, Kajira, Libertine, Siddella and Sparkillz.
Comments/critique/praises welcome...
Day of the Dead (or DÃa de los Muertos in Spanish) is a Mexican holiday celebrated on November 1 (All Saints' Day) and November 2 (All Souls' Day). Though seemingly morbid from the perspective of some other cultures, Day of the Dead is a colorful and joyous time to honor the lives of the deceased and celebrate the continuation of life...that death is not the end, but rather the beginning of a new stage in life.
My tribute combines the traditional Day of the Dead imagery of floral calaveras (skulls) and the Virgin de Guatelupe which marks my first attempt at special effects makeup. Special thank you to the very patient model Plain Jayne Jones (more of her coming next).
Further information and history on Day of the Dead can be viewed here and here.
Comments/critique/praises welcome...
"Shokushu Genkai" - Japanese translation: Tentacle Bondage
Yes, that is a real octopus and her actual eyes...
Comments/critique/praises welcome...
I was graciously given a 1000 square foot studio at the People's Art Festival and have filled it with nearly 50 of my best exotic photographs...some never shown before! PLUS I have decided to unveil a preview of a new series that is an experimental new direction within my art...Divina Soma, the nexus of spirituality and the anatomic self. You can find me inside the main building (number 2) off the music stage on the second floor next to the wine tasting. The directions are further below. Hope to see you there!
DVS
What does a world-renowned poster artist, a hospital pathologist, an underground novelist, a Detroit City Council woman, a former police officer, a sword and guillotine maker and the author of a best-selling business book have in common? They are part of an estimated 150 plus visual artists, filmmakers, musicians and other performance artists already on board to exhibit and perform at the Inaugural People's Arts Festival on September 15th, 2007 at The Russell Industrial Center located at 1600 Clay Avenue off I-75.
The People's Arts Festival is also expected to be the largest free-to-artists festival ever held in the City of Detroit. "We hope to accomplish several things through our sponsorship of the Festival," said Dennis Kefallinos, the owner of Russell Industrial Center. "First of all it's our way of saying, 'Thank You' to the artists and other creative people who have chosen to locate their studios and businesses with us. It's also a way of giving back to Detroit and proving that there's still a lot of positive enery in this city. Finally, it's a way for us to showcase this unbelievable campus. We have 7 buildings here and over 2.2 million square feet, so there's still plenty of room for people who are interested in joining our community."
Among the dozens of visual artists will be legendary Detroit poster artist Gary Grimshaw, Mark Arminki (a globally-renowned painter and poster maker), Pete Traskal, Megan Jones, Ryan Matthews, Amy Memminger, Mike Kelley, Steven Dunn, Audry Pongracz, Jeff White, Robert Stewart, Julie Fournier, Lisolette Gilcrest, Marc Nischan, Matt Feazell, Emily Slade, Andy Kem and Sarah Lipinski.
Confirmed musical acts include (among others): Jill Jack; Audra Kubit; The Loftees w/Johnny Chrome; The Cetan Clawson Revolution; NOMAN; Circus Boy Detroit; Imperial Empire; and thtx.
NooMoon and Causing a Scene are among the scheduled performance artists.
Filmmakers are scheduled to present a series of short films.
Food and beverage service will be offered by Niki's Pizza, Loco's Mexican Cuisine.
The Russell Industrial Center is right off of I-75 and the Clay/W. Grand Blvd. exit (north of Mack, south of 7 mile)
Once you get off that exit, it's on the SouthEast side of the road. Big sign.... enter off of Clay
This session with the most wonderful Iris was supposed to be a continuation of the "ash" series, but instead became a different experimentation altogether with a recently purchased high-definition digital video projector. The technique used was much more than mere projection of an image on the nude body as seen many times before, but more of the use of the projector as another light source. As always, nothing was added digitally in post.
This is definitely an experimentation worth exploring further...
See the rest of the session at:
http://www.dvsdetroit.com/iris
Comments/critiques/praises welcome...
Dark Vision Studio
www.dvsdetroit.com
The first image was planned thouroughly using a star filter and developed just as wonderful as envisioned...
The rest of the session has unexpectedly become very sacred to me. It began simply as covering the captivating Kajira in gently sifted ash and mud to find beauty within its filth. After she showered and left, I placed in one of those soul-searching CDs and began reviewing the images...and begun seeing something different...something unexpected that mere beauty-in-filth images. I remembered where the ashes came from. I remembered what they once meant to me. Years ago, through a period of personal torment and pain from a relationship, I decided to cleanse. Cleanse the self and soul of all remnants of this pain. Cleanse all through the purity of fire.
Photographs...poetry...mementos...
All that was once beautiful
that fell fast beneath nothing
burning within a flash
as the moments were lived
enflaming towards ash
smolderings smothered
in bitter spit-wine
to blackened filth
discarded
forgotten
in darkness
waiting
for a moment
for a final word
silently
unexpectedly
from filth
arising
to beauty
once more
So...what was veiled upon her skin was more than mere soot and ash. They were the remnants of discarded hopes, passions and dreams, once mighty and great then denied and forgotten. A simple exploration of ashen beauty uncovered a radiantly emotive phoenix silently rising by way of Kajira's moving poses of reflection, solace and serenity. Perhaps she felt a powerful dormant essence enshrouding her...guiding her. I'll never ask as, in my mind, I already know the answer.
Then this image was just for fun...
See the rest of the session at:
http://www.dvsdetroit.com/kajira
Comments/critiques/praises welcome...
What happens when one of the key figures of Hollywood's legendary BONDAGE BALL, FETISH DISCO, AND KINK! meets up with one of Detroit's most established promoters?
Detroit is about to experience an event of a new kind. Chaos productions, Detroit's most known alternative modeling and talent agency have teamed up with Vena, one of LA's most acclaimed fetish models.
Exotica is designed to be a convention of a different kind. Vendors and workshops by day and the wildest and sexiest parties by night. Exotica is a convention made for the Erotic side of sex. Anything from sexy lingerie to toys and lubricant.
Friday night we will kick off with two fashion shows and smaller shows as a prelude to Saturday night . Saturday night is our Masquerade Ball complete with our sexy VIP room. Large performances and wild dance music.
Confirmed Vendors are:
Dream X Streams - bondage furniture
Wiked and Grey Gargoyle
"Thee Inferno" from Chicago
DITC fashions from New York
Super Bitch magazine
Evil minds inc. - Tatoo and peircings
My Tulip - adult toys
Noir Leather - fetish store
Clever Designs - graphic art and printing
DVS photography
And special guest and models
Jessica Rabbit hosting "the rabbit hole"
Monique, detroit's sexy fashion model, living it up in the rabbit hole
Kajira, one of our local fetish models
Cyfar, fire performer, fire never looked so hot!
Lana - bellydance detroit!
Also confirmed DJ's: DJ Darks Choire, DJ Audio flesh, and DJ Glamazon
This event is brought to you by:
CHAOS PRODUCTIONS- The most established and respected organization in Michigan representing alternative acts such as Fetish Models, Go Go dancers, Tattoo'd strippers, Fire Performers and Bizarre Carnival Acts. For over a decade, Chaos Productions has been a key player in Detroit's most reknowned fetish and erotic events.
VENA- Fetish Model & Performer from Los Angeles and one of the key figures in such reknowned events as
Bondage Ball, Fetish Disco, and Kink!.
EXOTICA is an 18+ Event. Since our site contains adult oriented material, you must also be 18+ to be added to our Myspace site.
Also our show will be featuring one of our most exotic famous models, Monique. Monique will be in the vip room, "the rabbit hole" helping host the night with sexy and bubbly celeb Jessica Rabbit!
Layne Conn, a close and dear friend of mine of a dozen or so years, passed away in his sleep on April 1 2007. A fellow photographer, scenester and generally a wonderful human being, he will be missed by many whose life he has touched. We will in rememberance this Saturday (4/21) on the 3rd floor lounge of Mephisto's in Hamtramck from 9pm until 2am to share our stories and enjoy the many photographs he took of all us all throughout the years. There will also be a enlarged photo of him to sign our wishes, which will be sent to him within a flaming tribute at the end of the night. Please stop by any time of the night to say hello, have a drink in his name and remember his life. The will be no cover at the door for this.
If you wish, you can add a comment on his MySpace page at: www.myspace.com/2297088
Mephisto's is located at:
2764 Florian St
Hamtramck, MI
48212
You will be truly missed, my dear friend...
The first two were created using a hand-built clear plastic light table, translucent fabrics and lots of tiny lights. The last floating nude was also using the same table. =)
It's been a while since I've sent new session updates, but I "have" been shooting...so here are the latest sessions with Siddella that begins a new series requiring definition...Transcendence. On appearance, some of the images may appear simply as gore, kink or something darkly sinister. But, as with life, simplicity can be deceptively complex and appearances can mask the true essence of self. This series represents transcendence beyond boundaries perceived by mortality, emotion and anima. Light from darkness...love beyond death...life above pain...the beginning within the end. (Note: The last image "Absolution" was featured at Dirty Show 8 in Feb 2007)
May I introduce to you...Kali Ma (yes, you are seeing 6 toes and a double claw on her paw). ^-^
"Thou art the Beginning of all, Creatrix, Protectress, and Destructress that Thou art" - Shiva in the Mahanirvana-tantra
Although not many of you noticed, I dissappeared. I dissappeared within a one month sabbatical/retreat from life. It was a month of essentially nothing. An isolation I literally feared would tear at me. Torment. No cellphones, PDAs, computers, internet, radio, cable or any communication whatsoever. No junk foods, sodas, alcohol, nicotine, sweets or any other gluttonies. No sex (eep), no job, no schedules, no projects, no "gottas" and no "shoulds". I only read, wrote thoughts, discovered new beliefs, learned to meditate, slept when tired, cooked when hungry, ate simple foods, drank lots of water and generally cleansed the body and mind of old ways. And somewhere along the way, it became (and still is) the most spiritually inspiring moment of my life. A much needed and long overdue life "reset". At times, it was quite rough to give up basically everything in life, be alone and live somewhat like a monk, but it's a wonderful moment when you actually realize that you feel what life is truly about.
Now, coming back to the realities of here and now, I already feel the struggle to hold on to the path I discovered for myself, but I'm confident that I'll have a harmony of minimalist idealisms, life and art soon enough. Unfortunately, I'm not quite ready to "give it all away" and be truly free, but perhaps one day...
Today marks a special anniversary...an 10 year anniversary of life, death and rebirth...the beginning of what makes me who I am today...
- Prologue -
There was this sweet angel of a girl. Her name was Priya. A girl whose physical beauty was wonderfully complimented by the beauty of her inner light. A dear friend amongst a circle of close friends whom did many things together as a group. Clubs. Parties. Theatre. Festivals. Nearly everything. And everywhere she went, she always carried her shy closed-mouth smile.
But she had a flaw as beauty always does...two actually. A heroin addiction and a controlling boyfriend who nurtured it. Actually, it was an addiction to both that slowly created turmoil within the circle...and between us. I remember offering a quiet ear when she needed to express the conflict within...sometimes a shoulder for her pain-filled tears. However, in time comes the realization that you cannot help those who will not help themselves. And within that time, somehow, we parted ways.
Fast-forward six months. I was helping a new friend move into her new house. I remember vividly the beautiful sunny day when my cellphone rang. It was Priya. I listened as she told me her now ex-boyfriend became physically abusive...he was now in jail for possession...how she took back her life...and that she put herself through rehab. She has been clean for four months and needed positive people within her new path in life. And her first thought was of me. I knew this took much courage to do this...both rehab and the call. I told her how very proud I was of her and coincidentally, had an extra ticket to see "Everything But The Girl" that night and invited her.
The concert was amazing. We stood about ten feet from the stage and sang all our favorite songs. When the song "Missing" began to play, I asked her to dance...and we twirled as much as we could on the crowded concert floor. She later confessed that it was the first time she ever danced with anyone. We quickly became friends again. Having fun once again with me finding much joy seeing her within her new life. I was deeply proud of her. Deeply.
Then she disappeared. Without a word. After a couple weeks, and through her parents, I found her. The "ex" was released from jail, came back into her life...and brought with him the gift of her old addiction. I was angry. Disappointed. I felt betrayed. With much conviction, she told me how she loved him and couldn't leave him. I've heard this too many times before and know all too well its consequences. And we drifted apart once again.
Fast-forward two months. The next day was November 4...my birthday. I knew my friends were planning something sinister. And they didn't fail me. We literally took over the Magic Stick downtown as all my friends, close and casual, were there. We drank...played pool...bowled...and chummed together. At one point, amongst the countless shots and drinks, I was gang chased around the bar and held bent over on the pool table as some gave their complimentary spankings. It was literally the best birthday I've had in my entire life. Fun with a capital F-U-N! I was driven home around 4 or 5am and slept the next day away. Well, most of the day until the phone began ringing. I answered. It was Priya's mother. With her frail voice, she told me that the boyfriend was put back in jail again for drug possession a few days back. And last night, Priya, left alone in their apartment...took a gun...and ended her life...
.
.
.
- Epilogue -
As I lived within a year of painful guilt, blame and regret, I moved inwards. Explored. And discovered new ways of expressing what I felt, thought and lived. New artistic mediums beginning with poetry, then sculpture, photography and finally, a film script that I feel encompasses all the emotions, mediums and release of those darkened days.
Odd how one's death can become awakening for another. The end to become the beginning. But also, what a fitting tribute...to live, learn and grow from her life...and life itself. And through this, she lives eternally.
May your spirit find the peace that eluded it in life
I will be one of the dozens of artists showcasing their lastest work at the upcoming Motor City Art Expo. This will also be the first time I am actually selling prints of 50 of my favorite images. The info and flyer is below so if you're in the area, stop in and say "hello".
Motor City Art Expo 3
Wednesday November 08 2006
7pm - $5 cover
Emerald Theatre
31 N Walnut St
Mount Clemens, MI
(586) 913.1920
www.emeraldtheatre.com
Posters, prints, small press, photography exhibit, art, comics
Also perfromances by CASP and special guests Candy Pants Burlesque
Emerald Theatre Presents
Motor City Art Expo 2
Rock Posters and Prints
Small Press Exhibition
Photography Exhibit
Original Art
Comics
Tickets $5
7pm Doors
18+
[ Click Here To View Event ]
Come check out some of Metro Detroit's hottest local artists including:
Sean Bieri
Matt Feazel
DVS
Michaelangelo Cicerone
Andy Kocis
Carl Lundgren
Gary Grimshaw
Leni Sinclair
Matt Busch
Sarah Wilkinson
Bob Stewart
Gwen Joy
Jim Mackey
John Boissy
Frances Cocagne
Pete Trudgeon
Aaron Trudgeon
Nate Higley
Barb Houcke
Marty Hirchak
Mark Dancey
Suzanne Baumann
Eric Hodson
Performances by:
Noir Leather
Causing A Scene
Sounds by:
DJ Limecoat Craig
Emerald Theatre
31 N Walnut St
Mount Clemens, MI
586.913.1920
www.emeraldtheatre.com
At a wonderful place called Marvelous Marvin's Mechanical Museum (www.marvin3m.com) in Farmington Hills, MI, there's a plethora of amazing old carnival games including one particular "fun" one. It's an old "test of strength" machine with a animated mechanical life-sized man in the booth and two metal orbs. The object is to hold on to the orbs as long as you can as it send low amperage electricity through your hands via the orbs as it verbally taunts you. Now here's where the fun begins:
1) Put in your two quarters
2) Grab a loved one (or a reasonable facsimile)
3) Each grab one orb but don't touch each other
4) Moisten your own lips
5) As the jolts begin...kiss
It will be one of the most electrifying kisses you may have had since your first. =D Only the daring will use tongue. =P A cheap violet wand/ray device for those that "know" what that is and it's "fun" use. ;)
Note: An odd taste and tingling sensation will last for about 30 minutes. My fillings felt weird too. :|
You are cordially invited to attend the artist reception for the Original Sin Exhibition at the new Metro Image Gallery in Detroit.
This collection of 60+ images by 14 of Detroit's best photographers has been held over by popular demand. So come mingle with photographers and models alike for an exotic good time with free food and drinks.
Saturday, April 15, 2006
4 pm - 10 pm
Click Here To View Event
Metro Image Gallery
www.metroimage.net
138 Cadillac Square
Fourth Floor
Detroit, MI 48226
313.963.4009
Hope to see you there!
Anthony (DVS)
Dark Vision Studio
www.dvsdetroit.com
Words old and new but all flow, swirl and glide wondrously within each other...
---
"Drowning"
I find myself
Still drowning
Deep within
The shimmering waters
Often floating
In fragility
On the surface
Only to be pulled under
With the gentle ripples
Of memory
---
"RIP"
It is time
To forget the dream
To turn away from want
To bury need
No silent prayers
No parting words
Just laid to rest
With no marker
To what once was
To what was to be
Then walk away
Never to look back
And find peace
Within eternity
Without
Swirling
Gliding
Flowing
Between
Each breath
Through
Each beat
Immersing
Within
Throughout
Touching
Tasting
Feeling
Knowing
Truth
Faith
Love
Serenity
Self
(c) 2006 Dvs
There is no end
Without beginning
No exit
Without entrance
Death
Without life
Take in
First breath
Of rebirth
Of new life
Neverlasting
Ever casting
Hopeful doubt
Of light contrasting
To begin the end
Of life relived
Life unlived
(c) 2006 Dvs
It's been a long time since I had a shoot like this...no elabortate plans whatsoever...just the artist, the girl, an impromptu shopping spree, grabbing some random props and just having fun...
There is a small scene
Just a single moment
When throughout the chaos
Throughout the pain
That what you were always seeking
Wanting
Needing
Has been in front of you
All along the way
(From the final scene of the film Strange Days)
Lori Carson & Graeme Revell - Fall In The Light
It's in this moment
Hold on
When everything has come apart
It's in this moment
Right now
When it can come together
Raise your sights
What's there to lose?
Fall in the light
Fall in the light
In all this trouble
Hold on
To the innocence with which you were born
There's so much struggle
Be strong
Find the faith you need to carry on
It's a long night
You're not alone
Fall in the light
Fall in the light
Sweet air it falls into place
Sun through the haze
Doesn't it feel a little like grace
It's in this moment
Hold on
When everything has come apart
It's in this moment
Right now
When everything comes together
Raise your soul
What's there to lose
Fall in the light
Fall in the light
Fall in the light
(Hold on...and I will catch you)
She floated down
Gracefully returning
A beautiful raven
Singing from the heart
Of passions untaken
Of love denied
By another
I sit in silence
As she sadly sings
Of beautiful hope
Of wondrous dreams
Painful songs
I've sung before
Amidst her wings
When I had a voice
When I sang loudly
Gloriously
Of her
I finally have a breath to do something within my blog that I told myself I wouldn't do...babble. I saw Cirque de Solei's Delirium last week and it left me...inspired...hopeful...at peace. Granted, it wasn't one of the better Cirque's, but about midway, I saw something amazing within the story subtly lying inside moving art and theatrics...myself. Where one often hovers over their own life...drowns within waves of memories...entangles within anguish and submits to hopelessness. But within this, there was a simple need...a most simple desire. To fly. To soar above all of this. To not only touch light, but embrace it and relish it with pure childlike joy and happiness. I saw the shear ecstatic exhilaration on his face when he finally gave in and held what he didn't know he desired most...and it brought tears to my eyes...and a much needed breath of relief. This simple scene made me realize that I have to stop watching life from above or below...stop living through the lives of others...start reaching towards my own light and soar. Soar.
Friday January 13
The best love is the kind that weakens the soul, that makes us reach for more, that plants fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds. - The Notebook
Ugly.
Unworthy.
I am.
I strive so hard to be "acceptable"...even just "okay"
But all it takes is one word to throw your whole life down into darkness..."ugly"
I just wish sometimes...
Pray that I could be...
Beautiful
But I still hope...
Still pray...
That some day...
It's been too long since I wrote. At least on here. I want to let you all know that I am well...well as one can be. I've been on an amazing journey of self. A journey to discover the divine within. I feel it's warmth...and it's soothing embrace. One within the balanced unity of the divine feminine and masculine. Only a few may know what I speak of. The Gnosis of self and true awakening from within.
So...within this journey, I have found a new direction with my art. And to put it simply...I am finding my beauty finally within my art.
This may be my last within a series of words of angels. I have seen a light towards a greater path...a more divine journey which will inspire new words and imagery as I venture deeper within. Enjoy and stay tuned.
I find myself
Fallen
To my knees
Draped only
In silence
Praying
For my angel
To come
Without words
Without regrets
Just open arms
To envelop
Within the warmth
And serenity
Of love eternal
© 2005 DVS
These are past word that were left unsaid...I don't want them anymore...enjoy.
---
Within her glance
I see the world
Of endless possibilities
Within her touch
I sense the beginnings
Of eternal wonders
Within her embrace
I feel the enwrapment
Of unfathomed bliss
And within her kiss
I am consumed
Willingly and completely
© 2005 Dvs
---
I love you
I love all that you are
I love all that you will be
I love all that you'll always be
I love the sight of you
The softened curves
That unleash within
Forgotten fires
I love the smell of you
The sweetened scent
Enchanting within
Of heavenly bliss
I love the feel of you
The touch of velvet
Draped within the satins
Of pure enticement
I love the taste of you
Like exquisite wine
To savour and nourish
An eager mouth
I love your delightful squeals
Within unexpected surprises
I love your joyous laughter
Within carefree happiness
I love your dream filled eyes
Within the ripples of ecstacy
I love your softened sighs
Within the waves of desire
I love the presence of you
I love the memories of you
I love all that you are
I love you
© 2005 Dvs
Ack...I told myself that I wouldn't use this journal for ramblings other than ones in artistic form. Change. It can truly be a wonderful thing at times. But sometimes when you are desperately seeking it to help bring you back into the light, you have to create it yourself.
A month back I was in a car accident that broke my car. But little did I know that this accident would be something good for me. It made me think about my life once again and do things that were always "not me".
So...within this change comes a new car (a midnight sparkly blue Vibe...yes, I said blue). Color has started to become important to me now. I've been using vivid red quite a bit recently within my photographic work. And within my home.
What other changes...new spiritual people in my life to help keep my focus. Quitting smoking. Working out again. Redecorating the house. A new job. Reviving my independant films. Started a new spiritual photo series. Yadda yadda yadda.
I still feel lost at times with a slight emptiness deep within, but I will always be okay. I know something truly amazing is coming to me. I feel it even deeper with. All it is is a matter of time.
Beauty
Exists
To
Rip
Away
Your
Every
Dream
---
Feeling
Only
Regret
Slowly
Abandon
Knowing
Enchanted
Nevermore
© 2005 Dvs
My desires burn
Within a molten sea
Of a thousand fires
Calling out
A blinding beacon
Only to be quenched
By the rampant flow
Of your tidal passions
Do you feel the heat
Across the distance
Quietly shining
Within intensity
Never faltering
Always burning
© 2005 Dvs
I feel the need to sleep
To dream once again
To flow within the serenity of its fallacy
To become one within the illusion
To feel free
To be free
Free
Free to hope
Free to love
Free to hate
All without persecution
All without condemnation
Without fault
Just only perfection
The perfection of sleep
Last week I had a very interesting night. Simply put: Two poet/photographers meeting. Years of written passions and pains. Collections of sensual photography. Combined works to tell a story. A story of a man, a chance meeting, desire, love, betrayal, despair, hope, dissapointment and self revelation.
It was quite interesting and fun as we laid down individual poems that reacted off the previous to tell a story. One by one, like a strange card game of someone's fate. The final result will be a book intermixing words and imagery from two minds walking different yet similar paths of the heart.
Now I just need to work on some new poetry-inspired photography. Fun!
Normally, I use this site to release my innermost emotions within prose as a sense of release. I must take a break from that for a moment.
Amazing. Just when you feel all in the world is about to fall into an unfathomable depth, someone comes into your life to show you the way to the beautiful gates of self salvation. Yes, self salvation. Not a salvation I've always searched within another, but one that I can find within myself...for myself...of myself.
Strange that lately I've been feeling something largely spiritual was coming my way. Something so astounding that it would change me eternally and beyond. Thus the recent poetic prose written in the form of , God, Heaven and angels. I always believed in "signs", but never had too much faith in them. But lately, they've been pushing themselves into view that I couldn't but stop and notice that something...someone has been guiding me. Guided me to touch again an old dark addiction to make me reach out to an old friend for guidance and then, over coffee, meet someone that would open my eyes for the first time and have everything make sense.
Now, I feel all the heavy burdens of self doubt, self loathing and pain has been moved aside by something so bright,that it could bring the night into day. Moved aside as I still have workto do, but I feel more alive than I have in many many years. To finally see the path to the serenity I have searched for. The serenity I deserve. I can taste true love...not for another for a change, but for once, for myself. I taste of it...and now that I see the path to fully consume it and become it.
Ack...I've dragged on this flourishing long enough. I'm just simply excited, full of hope and promise...and smiling. =)
And now, our regular scheduled program...(funny that I wrote this before this new enlightenment)...
----------------------------------------
A feel the approach
Of a new dawn
From the cleansing light
Of personal divination
The numbing pain
Of tired flesh
Will give way
To wings of new hope
To soon rise
Above self Purgatory
And soar towards
The embrace of Heaven
(c) 2004 Dvs
I exist only to torment
I breathe only to aggravate
I move only to anger
I speak only to infuriate
I am the enemy
I am the nemesis
I am everything that is wrong
I am hate
I am loathing
I am pain
I am...
I am...
I...am.
I watch in wondrous awe
Beneath the grace of an angel
As she swirls and soars
Within her newfound light
Of love all encompassing
Enveloping her beauty
To bathe her in the warmth
Of true bliss
I watch from below
Within tattered wings
And tearful rememberance
Of my place once beside her
As she fades from view
Forever soaring
Swirling gracefully
Towards Heaven
© 2004 Dvs
Falling from grace
Entangled in wings
Tattered on shards
From a heart shattered
Seeking sanctuary
From abandonment
Within an emptiness
As vast as Heaven
Far from God's gift
Far from salvation
Screaming in silence
Within prayers unanswered
Forever fallen
Away from the light
To seek eternally
A grace within Purgatory
© 2004 Dvs
Restrict the flames
Extinguish the fires
Push it deep within
Restrain its freedom
Encase its essence
Snuff the embers
Subsume the cold
© 2004 Dvs
I have seen the face of fascination
Gazed into her eyes of intrigue
Drawn in by her whispers of wonder
And surrendered to the touch of temptation
To be captivated by her sighs of serenity
© 2004 Dvs
Fallen
Once again
For the nth time
Feeling a bit dazed
A bit more confused
And much more pained
Than the times before
I lay on the ground
And close my eyes
To reflect on the pain
To reflect on my mistake
How could I not see
That I was about to mistep?
How could I not know
That when I felt the wavering
That I was about to fall?
I became distracted
I became too confident
Within the stability
Of that last rung
I open my eyes
And look up once again
Rungs
So many rungs
That seem endless
Some rungs are easy
Some nearly unattainable
Then there are those
That come graciously to you
Offering a higher view
Of the beauties of life
To only slip and fall
Within regretable mistakes
So I pick myself up
Brush myself off
And reach for the first one
Knowing that within each fall
I climb once more
To an even higher rung
To eventually reach the goal
Of touching heaven
(c) 2004 Dvs
Well, it's been a couple weeks of coming into the light, so to speak, and it's been...interesting. For the first time in too many years, I've had many moments to reflect upon my life. I've experienced new adventures (skydiving!). Involved new people in my life. Changed my social horizons. But overall, I now realize what I've always been missing...needing in my life...
Normalcy.
I now realize that I've spent way too many years rejecting the "normal" life. Living for what I thought fulfilled me. Thriving within the nightlife. Becoming part of the industry. Trying to create something big within the city as a means to somewhat give meaning to my life. And within this, I've lost what truly mattered in life. To find peace in the simplest things. To find comfort in normalcy.
I've now rediscovered long hidden passions within that used to fulfill me years ago. To simply create. To write. To compose music. To think freely and openly about anything and everything. And through this, I've also now realized the blessings that life had given me to merely get lost within the complications of my previous life. Once-in-a-lifetime gifts that I had foolishly let slip away. And I am saddened within this newfound peace.
Overall, I know I will be okay. I am learning from my mistakes and am working to create a better and more complete me. To uncomplicate myself. To take time to count the stars. To truly breathe in life and become what I once was years ago...An ever self-exploring artist that thrives to seek enrichment within the simple things in life.
After a 4 year absence in photography, I have rediscovered my passion within the art and am currently updating my portfolio (link below). If any Detroit area models are interested in working together to create some dramatic glamour/art photography, feel free to contact me. An escort is welcome for your concerns and a media CD will be provided shortly afterwards. TFCD only. Thanks and take care...
Anthony
Dark Vision Studio
www.dvsdetroit.com
After way too many years of seclusion within the second shift (afternoons) on my "real" job, I decided it is time for a change and I'm moving to dayshift. A change that is too long in coming perhaps, but it's high time for this night creature to experience the daylight and rejoin the living. I can't wait like a child waiting for Christmas as I can see the possiblities abound to finally have a healthy social and personal life all around. To visit galleries and museums. To see a movie. To go to dinners. To have coffeehouse chats. To work with other creative groups.
The future is looking really good.
=)
Why is it so hard to be understood?
When sometime you expresss yourself poetically or artistically, other think you are too much?
All I am is a simple man of simple values.
I feel.
I express.
I release.
But then there are others that think you think too much.
I cannot help who I am.
I cannot help what I am.
A being filled with emotions and desires in hopes to find some salvation.
A being still holding onto a scant facade of feeling true happiness.
Of feeling at peace.
I'm tired of being misunderstood.
I'm tired of being looked at as complex.
I am simple.
I am human.
I feel.
VELVET
For so long
You had a hold on me
But too long within this hold
Has changed my view of what we could be
I used to wonder when love would begin
With the beauty that destiny could bring
But now the blinds are off and I can see
I'm no longer a slave to your velvet heaven
No longer chained to your satin ways
I won't submit to your promised haven
Because for once I am free
As you know
I gave my soul to you
But did you know within this soul
Lies a passion to see love through
I would have given a love so complete
That all your passionate dreams just can't compete
But you were always much too blind to see
Now I'm no longer a slave to your velvet heaven
No longer chained to your satin ways
I won't submit to your promised haven
Because for once
For once and now forever
I am finally free
I am free
Copyright 2004 Dvs
The wonderful thing about the written word as it allows you to expel inner turmoils and those sometimes beautiful darkened emotions that plague us from moving on. After I wrote this, I felt a great weight lifted from within and I know I will become greater from the experience. Enjoy.
Denial
I didn't love you
I wasn't in love with you
I didn't cherish everything that was you
I wasn't inspired by your vibrant soul
I wasn't amazed by your timeless wisdom
I wasn't fascinated by your childlike curiosity
I wasn't uplifted by the winds of your spirit
I wasn't grounded by your loving embrace
I wasn't humbled by your physical beauty
I wasn't in awe of your inner beauty
I didn't fall deeply within your soulful eyes
I wasn't weakened by your tender kiss
I wasn't reborn within your every breath
I wasn't bound in ecstacy within your touch
I wasn't weakened by your ecstatic sighs
I didn't savour the taste of you
I didn't lose myself within the hours of passion
I wasn't proud of your scars on my flesh
I wasn't in peace within your satiated sleep
My heart didn't shatter when you said you loved someone else
My life didn't fade when you left me for him
I don't see your face within every crowd
I don't hear your voice within every breeze
I won't die without your love
I won't die without you
Because I wasn't in love with you
I didn't...
Love you
Copyright 2004 Dvs - All Rights Reserved
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