Some art by my Dad

My dad, Nelson Russ has painted since he was young. He usually uses watercolours and here are a few works he has done recently. The old church is in Somerset, England, and is where my ancestors Job Russ and Elisabeth Satherly married in 1841 when he was 22 and she 17. They then migrated out to New Zealand. Apologies for the glass reflection in the top image.

Ann-Marie

Last night I did a series of photographs of Ann-Marie down by the beach, then hung out at her cute little house where she has some great plants and crocheted cushion covers.

Gypsy Fair

Brazil Incarnate

I was sitting out in the garden enjoying Brazil Incarnate by Christopher Pillitz. I was in Brazil, a long time ago - Rio, Salvador and Porto Seguro in Bahia - and really want to go back there.

Virginia Lake gardens

Some Parihaka art

Some Parihaka musicians

Shown here are the afro-futuristic roots band Olmecha Supreme with the hot Samba dancers, Whanganui's very own Koalition, also Ladi6, and the gorgeous Karen Hunter.

Wanganui Airport

Parihaka International Peace Festival

Parihaka 2008 - what an awesome festival - workshops, films, poetry, dance, djs, installation art and of course all the great musicians. There were also lots of good food stalls, hangi, craft and clothing stalls, and hot showers. The management and volunteers put so much aroha into creating a beautiful and safe environment where people could come together to challenge racism, and work for justice, peace and the environment. I'll load a few performer pics when I get my films back.

fox fur

This fox fur is so unPC, but it is special to me because it's been passed down to me. My grandma used to wear it on special occasions.

Shoot with Nicky

We tried out a number of different outfits and some different locations for the photos, including the blue-flower bathroom and the main stairwell. Nicky is a great model and we got some interesting results. Hopefully they will be exhibited sometime soon but here are a couple of 'behind the scenes' images.

britney spears

I did a shoot with Nicky down at the studio tonight. We got some great shots of her. I'll post a couple after she has seen them. Meanwhile, here is a self portrait in my Britney top which I only got yesterday from the Riverside Market, and today I hear that poor Britney has had the day from hell. Don't give up hope Britney, things can only get better!

art exposed

This artwork was originally inside a building which has recently been demolished. She probably won't survive much longer.

two trees at night