Dear friends,
I hope this message finds you well. Today I’m excited to announce the release of my latest work, Book of Sons, which is both a photobook and an art object, and introduce you to my newest creative endeavor: painting.
Book of Sons now available in a super limited edition of 100 signed copies
This book has been several years in the making and includes work from a 2022 solo exhibition at AVA Gallery in West Lebanon, NH.
From the publisher’s description: Book of Sons explores the everyday lives of Tara Wray’s identical twin sons in rural Vermont during the years 2020-2022. The book merges lyrical and documentary styles, providing an intimate portrayal of the family’s ever-evolving life story. The photographs are presented in an accordion-style design, allowing the images to run together and overlap, much like memories. Through Wray’s lens, readers are given a multi-dimensional view of the boys’ shared experiences, as well as her own understanding of each of them as individuals. Book of Sons is a labor of love dedicated to her sons and husband, and it follows her earlier acclaimed works, Too Tired for Sunshine and Year of the Beast, both of which explore themes of family and childhood through photography.
Copies are available for purchase in my STORE.
Expedited shipping is available for delivery before the holidays if you order now.
94 pages / 6”x8” / accordion fold
Edition - 100
ISBN: 9789462264854
Publisher - Lecturis
Designer - Syb
Printer - Wilco Art Books
Book of Sons was made possible with funding from The Jack & Dorothy Byrne Foundation.
A left turn into painting and exhibition in the works
Last year marked the beginning of an unexpected journey into the world of painting for me. It wasn’t a conscious decision. While combing through my photo archives, I had a sudden urge to replicate a particular photo using paint. Without much hesitation, I ventured into the basement, unearthed some art supplies, and dove in. Very soon painting became my new obsession.
Just as my early experiences writing short stories and making documentary films enriched my perspective as a photographer, painting has opened up new avenues of self-discovery and fulfillment (and frustration and despair, etc.). When I first, somewhat sheepishly, shared my new dedication to painting with others, I heard a common refrain: ‘I wish I could do that.’ This sentiment, expressed by both artists and non-artists alike, gave me the idea for a new project:
Over the next year, I’ll catalog my progress as a burgeoning painter and present the results in a solo exhibition, scheduled for 2025, at the Mezzanine Gallery at the Norman Williams Public Library in Woodstock, VT. I’m embracing the fear of trying something new and documenting a progression, starting as an absolute novice and illustrating how far one can come in a new medium with persistence and commitment to the practice of making art. My goal is that others will be inspired to do the same.
If you’re curious to see more of this work, I invite you to preview it on my dedicated painting Instagram. Everything showcased there is available for purchase at reasonable prices; just reach out directly for more information.
Additionally, I’m trying to secure funds to provide for supplies, studio rental, and time to work on this over the next 16 months. This painting project is fiscally sponsored by Fractured Atlas, a 501(c)(3) arts organization, making all contributions tax-deductible. If my work resonates with you and you would like to contribute, your support would be greatly appreciated.
Donate now at Fractured Atlas.
Thank you for being a part of my artistic life, whether as a patron, collector, or supportive friend. If you have any questions about Book of Sons or my upcoming exhibition, please feel free to get in touch. Your encouragement means the world to me.
Wishing you warmth and health this holiday season and beyond.
All best,
Tara
This message is reaching you either because we’ve crossed paths, collaborated in the past, or I would like to respectfully keep you informed about my practice. If you no longer wish to receive these emails, please feel free to opt out below.
Tara Wray Art PO Box 221 Woodstock, VT 05091
Very cool, Tara. Great to see you here. And congratulations on this project. Looks terrific. Happy holidays!