by Raleigh boudoir photographer Christy Johnson
A recent pinch-me moment that I have to share: one of my boudoir photos was recently selected to be part of a photography exhibit called “Nude” by Decode Gallery in Tucson, Arizona!
My husband Mike and I flew to Arizona for a weekend to attend opening night of the gallery exhibition. As a busy mom and business owner, it’s rare that I take the time to slow down and celebrate my accomplishments before I’m rushing on to the next thing on my lengthy to-do list, but I’m so glad we took the time to fly out there. This was my first time having my artwork shown in a gallery, and it was worth celebrating! It was a whirlwind trip filled with art, inspiration, history, and lots of delicious Mexican food.
Decode Gallery is located in one of the best preserved barrios in Tucson. The neighborhood is comprised of artist studios, restaurants, residences, and office spaces, and features historic Sonoran-style architecture, with gorgeous, thick-walled, original adobe houses reminiscent of an old Mexican village.
The folks at the gallery told me that because of the historic nature of the buildings, they’re limited in what they can hang on the walls, both inside and out. They aren’t even allowed to fix loose floor tiles inside the gallery! I appreciate that the city works to maintain the original architecture and beauty – it provides so much character and history!
We visited some other art galleries along the same street while we there, including a gallery featuring artwork created by local Native American artists, as well as two other photography galleries.
(Side note: currently dreaming of where I can build an adobe-style studio in Raleigh…)
It was surreal to walk in and see my photograph hanging amongst so many other talented artists! The gallery staff greeted us when we came in, and after they went to the next room, Mike asked why I didn’t mention one of the photographs was mine – I’m just so shy, you guys! He went and told them for me, and they came back into the room all excited and wanting to photograph ME! Ack!
Here are some iphone snaps from the event, including some of my favorite works from other photographers (and a very sweaty selfie – ha!)
All in all, I’m really happy we made the trip. I walked away feeling incredibly inspired and even more committed to improving – and showing! – my boudoir and fine art nude work. May this be the first of many exhibits to come!
Oh, and here’s the photo that was chosen, if you’d like to see it in greater detail…
If you’d like information about a boudoir photography experience for yourself, send me a note and let’s chat!