Passion in the Moments

Petina Gappah's take on education in Zimbabwe

2012-01-18T12:54:00.000Z

Main image supplied for the article by Petina Gappah Guernica Magazine

I am proud to announce that my collaboration with Petina Gappah last year providing images for her essay on education in Zimbabwe was published on the 17th of January 2012 in Guernica Magazine [Click here].

Land Rover & Zimbabwe have one thing in common: They never quit!

2012-01-16T09:44:00.003Z

On a recent visit to Mutoko in Zimbabwe I came across this man and his beloved Land Rover. His car is at best slightly younger than Zimbabwe itself and as time has passed through wear and tear it has undergone various modifications to keep it running and reliable on its owners farm. There are no words that can describe the above mentioned modifications than the images themselves. Some would call them sheer genius when considering the alternative large price tag of a new land rover in Zimbabwe's adverse economic climate ; others however (like myself) will be shocked and outraged at the huge health and safety risks the modifications pose. Either way no one can deny that he has made the best out of an otherwise dire situation.

The man and his pride and joy!

Modified fuel pump

Wear and tear as time has gone by

Starter motor modified (If you are always losing your keys with this car no need for a key!)

To be fair all in all the car is in pretty good shape! I think Land Rover should find this man and
shake his hand for proving that their cars are nothing short of resilient regardless of age or owner!

The Weekend in Black and White: Water catcher

2012-01-15T20:28:00.001Z

Photo Friday: Cloudy Days

2012-01-13T07:10:00.000Z

Mazoe Dam, Zimbabwe

Mothering... A photo story

2012-01-08T08:02:00.000Z


Children are a gift from God

Happy Birthday Donna!

Weekend in Black & White - 01 - 2012

2012-01-07T10:05:00.000Z


Artisitc design table legs

Six Word Fridays: Looking forward -> Happy New Year!

2012-01-06T22:25:00.000Z

Looking forward I'm empowered bringing change
Brining comfort and reaching the hurting
Doing good and making a difference
Strength from within I bring forth
Spreading love and hope to many

A better tomorrow looking forward

Photo Friday: Days End

2012-01-06T09:50:00.000Z

Across the Thames overlooking City Hall, London Mayor's office

How many countries are there in the World?

2012-01-04T12:07:00.000Z

Southern England, UK

At the Start of 2012 we are pleased to announce that Passion in the Moments has been viewed by 128 different countries around the world so far! In 2012 we aim to be viewed by 32 more countries to make that number 160 countries of the 197 countries in the world (Including The Vatican City, Taiwan, Kosovo and South Sudan.)

Harare, Zimbabwe

So Team "E:thos / Passion in the Moments" please do share this blog with your facebook and real life friends and family from around the world and help us meet our 32 country target in 2012!

Our commitment is this, as you keep sharing this blog we will keep adding Beautiful / Thought provoking / Topical / Interesting images and stories for you and your extended network to enjoy!

Ekwendeni, Malawi

We look forward to living 2012 with you through imagery and story!

Happy 2012 from us to you!

2012-01-04T07:30:00.000Z

Visit us on Facebook

Zimbabwe's Morgan Tsvangirai "At the Deep End"

2011-12-15T20:30:00.000Z


Prime Minister of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Mr Morgan Tsvangirai signing copies of his book for invited guests at the launch of his book, "At the Deep End" - Book Cafe, Harare, Zimbabwe on 15th December 2011.

T William Bango (Left in hat) co-authored the book with PM Tsvangirai and was on hand to greet distinguished guests including Finance Minister Mr Biti

Entertainment was provided by Dudu Manhenga

Fungai Tichawangana of FungaiFoto (ZimboJam) was present as were many publications to record this event

The book, "At the Deep End" chronicles PM Tsvangirai's life from childhood until the day he was sworn in as Prime Minister of the Republic of Zimbabwe.

The autograph

"At the Deep End" is currently available for purchase at amazon.com.

Historical Zimbabwean Figure Mbuya Nehanda's Tree Falls Down

2011-12-07T21:58:00.001Z

'Nehanda tree' no more

The 'Nehanda tree' fell into the main street Josiah Tongogara in Harare blocking it off all day (07/12/20111)

Road construction workers near the site suggested the 'Nehanda tree' had been struck by lightening

It is said that 'Nehanda tree' is not the real site of her execution

The story goes that Mbuya Nehanda was a spirit medium back in 1896 who was hanged by Rhodesian settlers on 'this' tree situated in the middle of the main street called Josaih Tongogara in Harare, Zimbabwe. She is said to have been hung for the murder of the police Commissioner of the day for... [read the full story here.]

The Weekend in Black & White: Amanzi Lodge, Harare, Zimbabwe

2011-11-30T12:34:00.001Z

Photo Friday: Baby

2011-10-14T10:03:00.001+01:00

My nephew Tozi :)

Six Word Fridays: Peace

2011-10-14T09:52:00.003+01:00

Peace is...

Laying right there in your arms;

Holding your hand feeling your strength;

Waiting with anticipation as you come;

Watching you watching me we smile;

Seeing your face light up brightly;

Knowing you care and caring too.

Peace is...

Not knowing tomorrow but trusting you;

Hearing your voice seeing your vision;

Dreaming out loud living the dreams;

Making footprints in sands of life;

Taking the road far less traveled;

Me leads to you... leads to us.

Peace is to be with you...

The Weekend in Black & White: Zimbabwean Musician, Alexio Kawara

2011-09-25T22:17:00.000+01:00

The Weekend in Black & White: Drama!

2011-09-17T09:38:00.001+01:00

Teurai Chanakira International Model & Fashion Editor based in Australia

Teurai Chanakira [Model] at Cleveland Dam, Harare, Zimbabwe

2011-09-17T09:08:00.000+01:00

I recently had the opportunity to collaborate with the beautiful Zimbabwean born, Australian based model Teurai Chanakira on an all Zimbabwean team fashion photo shoot. The beautiful and incredibly stylish Chengi Tobun International Makeup Artist based in the UK joined us.

The following is a random selection of the result of this collaboration, enjoy!

The Weekend in Black & White: A love triangle

2011-09-17T07:56:00.000+01:00

This is a photo-story with models playing a role.

He desires her...

...he steals her heart...

He is captivated by another...

...and she steals his heart away...

A Black & White love story by E:thos photogrphy by rudo nyangulu.

Harare Cityscape - Harare, Zimbabwe

2011-09-11T17:47:00.003+01:00

I was born in Harare on the 11th June, 1981 to a Malawian father and a Zimbabwean mother. I grew up in this city and did not live anywhere else until I was 18. After an 11 year absence living abroad I have returned to live in Harare once again, though time and space has greatly altered us. From the 13th Floor of Joina City last week I looked out over my city of birth and for a moment we both went back to a time before now and in that moment we reconnected and I really felt like I was home...

The images in this collection entitle, 'Harare...City of Hope' were taken in that moment... I hope you will fall in love with Harare through them as I did all over again last week.

rue

The Weekend in Black & White: RuTendo DeNise

2011-09-11T13:26:00.003+01:00

Miss RuTendo DeNise...Poetess / Spoken word artist
performing at Zimbabwe Fashion Week closing ceremony

Bisma Ahmed dresses Miss Vimbai Mutinhiri at Zimbabwe Fashion Week 2011

2011-09-10T19:57:00.000+01:00

The collection below depicts a surprise collaboration between Big Brother Amplified's Vimbai Mutinhiri and Bisma Ahmed of B'zma Designs at Zimbabwe Fashion Week, 2011. Vimbai, a seasoned model walked the catwalk deliberately and commanded the room in one of Bisma's beautiful creations on the closing night of Fashion week.

Photo Friday: Near Nicole

2011-09-09T13:11:00.000+01:00

Nicole...

Photo Friday: Liquid Gold

2011-08-12T09:03:00.000+01:00

Sunset Beach - Havant, United Kingdom

The Weekend in Black & White: Staircase to Heaven

2011-08-11T22:05:00.001+01:00

'Burnout' Showcase, Arcadia, Harare Zimbabwe

2011-08-10T11:08:00.001+01:00

I was recently taken to a vechicle 'burnout' showcase in a neighbourhood caled Arcadia in Harare. Burnouts are widely followed here as I discovered and it is an activity that whole families attend. As a photographer I found plenty to capture with the colour, vibrance, intensity of the crowds and the varying skills of the different drivers.

A burnout (also known as a peel out or power brake) is the practice of keeping a vehicle stationary (or close to) and spinning its wheels, causing the tires to heat up and smoke resulting from friction. The origins of burnouts can be traced to drag racing, where they have a practical purpose: drag racing tires perform better at higher temperatures, and a burnout is the quickest way to raise tire temperature immediately prior to a race...read more here.

Photo Friday: Gloomy

2011-07-08T11:33:00.001+01:00

The Weekend in Black and White: Golf day

2011-07-01T07:36:00.000+01:00

Photo Friday: Sharp Focus

2011-07-01T07:33:00.000+01:00

The Weekend in Black and White: Church

2011-06-18T08:07:00.000+01:00

Winky D in concert @ HIFA

2011-05-06T10:44:00.001+01:00

Winky D (born Wallace Chirumiko) is a Zimbabwean born and based reggae/dance hall artist that is taking the Zimbabwe music scene by storm. He featured at the recent Harare International Festival of the Arts 2011 on the Telecel main stage and he had the crowds dancing, cheering, singing along and begging for more by the end of his energetic and enthused performance.

Whilst I would not consider myself a reggae or dance hall fan, Winky D managed to draw me into his music during the concert because of his stage presence and humble way of presenting himself and engaging with his audience. His songs are heartfelt and speak of issues of life that we can all identify with. He injects humour and thought provoking lyrics which make cause you to engage. Winky D, is also known as 'The Poor People's Devotee' and 'Di Bigman'.

The collection of images below are from Winky D's performance at HIFA last week, enjoy!

The Weekend in Black and White: Early Learning

2011-04-22T04:43:00.000+01:00

The Weekend in Black and White: Eastern Cape, South Africa

2011-04-17T23:46:00.005+01:00

Photo Friday: Lines

2011-04-15T21:47:00.001+01:00

African [Modern] Architecture: Joina Centre, Harare

2011-04-09T10:16:00.000+01:00

The Weekend in Black and White: Swan Lake

2011-04-09T08:15:00.001+01:00

Photo Friday: Ride

2011-04-09T07:47:00.000+01:00

The Weekend in Black and White: The journey

2011-04-02T07:59:00.000+01:00

E:thos supports charity fundraiser

2011-03-27T09:40:00.000+01:00

Sunset over Ekwendeni, Malawi

E:thos donated the following images to raise money for the Rotary Foundation at a charity dinner held in Harare, Zimbabwe on 26th March 211 and raised US$610 in auction bids.

E:thos...supporting the work of the Rotary Foundation

http://www.rotary.org

The Weekend in Black and White: School's out

2011-03-25T05:39:00.000Z

Photo Friday: Mother Nature

2011-03-25T05:21:00.000Z

Theatre in the Park presents 365

2011-03-16T06:07:00.001Z

Title: 365

Genre: Dramatic Play

Written by: Stephen Chifunyise

Directed by: Patience Gamuchirai Tawengwa

Produced by: Daves Guzha, Rooftop Promotions

Cast: Rumbidzai Karize, Charity Dlodlo , Evangelista Mwatse, Sebastian Maramba and Tinashe Chirisa.
Showing Dates: 7th - 26th March 2011 (Tuesday - Saturday 5pm)

Synopsis:

The story is set in a family that is shrouded in violence and abuse at the hands of its head, Amos. Amos is a troubled man with very traditional views of the role of men and women, views he imposes on his children, Janet and Farai by the force of violence. Amos’s wife, Amai Janet is a timid character for the most part with bursts of defiance when challenging her husband about his affair, which is to her detriment. She stands by her husband in his approach to parenting though this appears more out of fear and tradition than agreement. Her sister tries to help her by advising of all the legal and other routes she could take to stop violence in her home. Amai Janet however, appears more concerned about maintaining status quo and appearances than she is about stopping her husband’s abusive behaviour. In the final scenes, Amos’s sister attends the family home to confront her brother in front of his family about his affair with a woman named Linda. Amos is angered by this and Amai Janet rises up to defend her husband though saddened at the revelation that her children have been aware and exposed to the violence in the home.

Critique:

Chifunyise has provided us with a humorous yet sobering story of domestic violence and abuse in a way that engages the audience and delivers a strong message. Tawengwa picks up the baton and directs an excellent cast bringing the script to life in a way that all parties can be proud of. The key elements of the production that make this play relevant are the scenes where violence is applied with little or no provocation, showing that one does not have to do anything to be violated by abusive behaviour and the scene where Amai Janet’s sister advises her of the different ways she can seek and get help, all avenues actually available in Zimbabwe. This play is not just entertaining but it is also deliberately educational in content and style with a Q & A session directly after the production which sparked interesting conversation about the issues. Overall the play does exactly what it says on the tin; aptly titled 365 in line with the government’s declaration that domestic violence and abuse should be kept on the table of discussion and action 365 days of the year.

The Weekend in Black and White: Library

2011-03-13T10:02:00.000Z

Challenge: A Walk in the Street: Capital Hill

2011-03-08T05:50:00.000Z

Capital Hill, Lilongwe, Malawi

The Weekend in Black and White: Zebras

2011-03-06T05:43:00.000Z

The Weekend in Black and White: Stage Lighting

2011-02-25T22:46:00.002Z

Rue's Friday Fragments # 17

2011-02-25T09:27:00.000Z

Hi I'm Rue, the artist and voice behind Passion in the Moments / E:thos Photographic. This weekly posting is essentially an opportunity to share tid-bits, rants and observations that I have come across in the course of the week that are not really worth writing a whole article about but are interesting nevertheless. These coupled with that odd picture I have taken that doesn't really fit in anywhere, news about what's going on @ E:thos and a review of something interesting, put together in one post makes up what I call Rue's Friday Fragments. There is humour, righteous indignation, sad truths and a little of me, so something for everyone...enjoy!

African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF)
ACBF is celebrating their 20th Anniversary this year and as part of their celebration they have release a new set of Capacity Building Indicators in the form of a document that was presented at their celebration in Kigali earlier this month. I am pleased to report that we provided the artwork for that publication (six images to be precise).

10. Picture of the week

'Caring for the child'

I recently had the opportunity of taking a selection of images of this sculpture... see the full collection here

9. North Africa revolts!

It has been an interesting few months in North Africa with Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, Yemen and now Libya under civil unrest. It is an unprecedented display of regular everyday people who got tired. Tired of being dictated to, tired of hunger, tired of insecurity, tired of life as they knew it and decided that enough was enough. There is something admirable and inspiring about a people from different walks of life, who can come together with a unified vision of reaching a place of self-determination and liberation from oppressive governance.

8. Elton John and Partner David Furnish adopt a baby

Really?

7. New Zealand earthquake

113 people were killed in the earthquake in New Zealand on Tuesday the BBC news reported. Police report that a further 200 people are missing, including 122 people who are all thought to have been in one building which collapsed and it is thought that no one could have survived from it. It is always such a tragedy when natural disasters occur, with no one to blame and so much loss it is so sad. My heart goes out to all the families of the victims.

6. Oscar hope for 'The King's Speech'

I love Colin Firth! And I really liked The King's Speech so this is me lending my support to this movie for best actor for Colin and best movie at this years Oscars!!!!

5. Gaddafi

I am not sure how true this is, but I read a comment on facebook this week that states that Gaddafi has compared himself with Queen Elizabeth, saying she has ruled for 57years so while are people stressing him out? Crazy right!?! In any event, Queen Elizabeth obviously does not govern the country and the fact that Gaddafi has a host of mercenaries running around his country killing his people in a desperate attempt by him to maintain his hold over Libya. News reports state that the French Minister said that Britain and France are seeking an arms embargo and financial sanctions against Libya from the United Nations, while Obama's administration is planning their response to Gaddafi's defiance against the will of his people.

4. Ed Kashi

International photojournalist Ed Kashi is in Zimbabwe exhibiting his work and teaching local photojournalists. He has spent a 30 year career taking images all over the world and has been the inspiration of many a photojournalist, whilst inspiring the general public with his imagery. See more of Kashi's work on his website.

3. Cathrine Zeta Jones receives a CBE award accompanied by her family

Cathrine Zeta Jones received a Royal CBE award for her contribution to the film industry from Prince Charles recently. She has done amazingly well in her career and flown the flag for Wales / Britain, buying a home in Wales and maintaining a sense of her roots along the way. The best thing about the event was that her husband, Michael Douglas was well enough and able to attend with her after his battle with cancer last year, wishing them well...

2. Quotable quotes...

1. Video of the Week

Lemar - Its not that easy

I remember when Lemar (British Artist) first shot to the lime light. He was shy and yet had this amazing voice and sang on a talent show with Lionel Richie. His voice is so smooth and this song has so much soul and depth and speaks of one of the complexities of love...

And that's it for this week folks! Remember you can get in touch by commenting or emailing me atethosphotographic@gmail.com

Photo Friday: Open

2011-02-25T08:47:00.001Z

Nicholas Mukomberanwa's 'Caring for the child'

2011-02-24T06:25:00.000Z

Nicholas Mukomberanwa is an internationally acclaimed Zimbabwean sculptor who was introduced to the international arts stage in the 1970's when he emerged from the basement of the Art Gallery of Zimbabwe, his earliest workshop, to exhibit in London, Paris and New York. His work can be seen in museums all around the world today including The Museum of Modern Art and The Museum of Man in London, the National Gallery of Zimbabwe.

Like many Zimbabwean artists Mukomberanwa had a keen interest in the arts from a young age yet his interest and skill was left un-nurtured and he was propelled into a 'stable' career as a policeman. A chance meeting with the then director of the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, Frank McEwen later in life, inspired him to return to his first love and he went to work building a career as a very successful sculptor. Many more like him even today in Zimbabwe struggle to earn from their art and are left discouraged and often working in full time employment in other disciplines where they have failed to make a living from their art or where it is not socially acceptable for them to be full time artists. Many never realise their dreams so Mukomberanwa's success stands as a beacon of hope for many young artists trying to breakthrough. Mukomberanwa died in 2002.

'Caring for the child' is a sculpture by Nicholas Mukomberanwa which was donated as a prize for the winning girls soccer (football) team at the Goromonzi District Girls Soccer (football) Tournament held on 28th November 2009. The winning team at that tournament was Saint Domonic's Gilrs School [Chishawasha] where I saw the sculpture and had the opportunity to capture it resulting in this selection of images.

The Weekend in Black and White: Basket

2011-02-20T19:03:00.002Z

The Weekend in Black and White: Natural materials

2011-02-11T09:03:00.002Z

The Book Cafe shutter wall, Harare Zimbabwe

Six Word Fridays: Seconds

2011-02-11T07:19:00.002Z

So I have had one before?

So I know how it tastes?

So I know how it feels?

So I had the first offering;

Why does that mean to you;

That I do not deserve seconds?????

I-Heart Faces Photo Challenge: Innocent Wonder

2011-01-24T19:16:00.000Z

The Weekend in Black and White: Big Ben

2011-01-23T06:14:00.000Z

Big Ben, London, UK

Six Word Fridays: Warmth

2011-01-21T22:15:00.001Z

Warmth is;

A comforting smile across the room,
A hug when we are down,
A kind word lifting us up,
A generous soul seeking us out.

Warmth is;

The joyous laughter of inocense child,
The rush of excitement ushering hope,
The restoring grace of genuine care,
The love that flows from children.

Rue's Friday Fragments # 16

2011-01-21T08:07:00.001Z

10. Picture of the week

Reclaimed and recycled...see more here

9. Tunisia

'If you wont give us some rights and democracy, we will take it!' - what a powerful message the Tunisian people are sending which is resonating throughout Africa and beyond. It is indeed possible for a peaceable people to reach their breaking point and say enough is enough! No one has to suffer a tyrannical form of oppressive leadership indefinitely and Tunisia has proven to us that there is always a choice, you just have to be willing to fight for it...

8. Carlina White

Carlina White's story is simple insane yet fascinating. She is a young woman who suspected being adopted as she and her family seemed to be too different with her not reassembling any of them. When she started digging she found she had no birth certificate and so she employed the online database, the National Centre for Missing and Exploited children and to investigate her past and found she was actually reported kidnapped at age 4. Now 23, Carlina has been reunited with her parents, a sad story that has a happy ending.

7. Can White People Be Africans?

I saw this title for an article on Global Voices, an online group for writers / bloggers who have a keen passion for human rights and justice. My opinion is simply this, if you are born in a country and live there all your life, and there are traceable generations of our people being settled in that place you are a part of it. The best example of this is the United Kingdom peoples. In the UK, the native peoples are referred to as English, those who have settled in the continent are called British, because it is recognised that they are a part of the continent though not native. The problem we have in Africa is that we do not have this secondary term for those who settle on our continent. We used to call such peoples colonialists however that term is no longer appropriate and I can imagine for most peoples, there are still scars of colonialism generations later that cause indigenous native Africans to identify white people with colonialism. I think that there is room for a new term for African white people that is equatable with the term, 'British', a term that will give a genuine and positive identity to the descendants of white settlers that still live in Africa today as many of them have never known any other home.

6. Selena Gomez working with UNICEF

It is encouraging to see young Hollywood with a social conscious. Selena Gomez is one such example. She has recently started working with the UN in their battle to protect children from poverty, hunger, disease and human rights violations among other issues. They have good examples to follow with the likes of Angelina Jolie who champion the social responsibility of the celebrity world and genuinely knit their hearts with important causes that affect the majority of the worlds population of people in developing countries. I think that there can never be enough done to highlight the plight of disaffected peoples around the world and if celebrities lend their profiles to draw attention to theses issues and educate the world in the process, I think it is a very good thing.

5. Sarah Palin

Good old Sarah Palin has been in the news this week for one thing or another. The moral of the story is that she is not too popular right now, honestly I wonder when and why she was popular in the first place. She is great at making noise but I dont really subscribe to her politics. However you have got to love the American way where anyone can rise into politics and be given a platform and a voice and I guess what Sarah is learning is that it is what you do with that platform that matters...

4. Film: The Black Swan

I recently watched Natalie Portman's movie, 'The Black Swan' and I must admit I was somewhat disturbed by it. The storyline was deep in terms of Natalie Portman's character the lead ballerina. She was totally nuts by my reckoning but her mental struggle to overcome herself; her fears, her inhibitions and self imposed 'glass ceiling' was a display of the internal struggle we all go through daily. The ballerina's self-destruction leading to death at the end is much like the emotional / spiritual death that many people allow themselves to be subjected to because of their fear predominantly. Natalie Portman's portrayal of the Black Swan is outstanding and I would vote for her to get the Oscar for her performance.

3. Food for thought...

2.Quote of the week

Words to live by;
"This above all: To thine own self be ture,
And it must follow, as the night, the day,
Thou canst not then be false to any man..."
Polonius in Shakespeare's Hamlet - Act One, Scene 3

1. Video of the Week

Ray Charles - Georgia on my mind
I heard this song this week and it reminded me of the sad movie of Ray Charles' life beautifully portrayed by Jaime Foxx and I thought that this would be a good choice for this week's video, enjoy...
[Click here for video]

And that's it for this week folks! Remember you can get in touch by commenting or emailing me atethosphotographic@gmail.com

The Weekend in Black and White: Print Works

2011-01-15T06:13:00.000Z

Six Word Fridays: At this Moment

2011-01-14T19:53:00.003Z

At this moment;

I'm where I want to be,

At this moment;

I have never felt so secure,

At this moment;

Nothing can take away our joy,

At this moment;

Everything in the world is right,

At this moment;

True peace has become my bedfellow,

At this moment;

My life feels so very complete.

I - Heart Faces Photo Challenge: Smile

2011-01-14T19:03:00.000Z

Sea shells and pebbles

2011-01-10T00:46:00.005Z

Pebble beach, Havant, United Kingdom

ShutterDay: First of 2011 - Reclaimed and Recycled

2011-01-08T20:33:00.001Z

Reclaimed...Recycled..

This collection of images are some of the best so far this year because they bring with them an incredibly positive story out of what should be a dire situation. The images are of reclaimed old iron parts, mainly from homes. The three gentlemen who own the trolley declined to be in the images as they were shy but they did explain why they had collected the metal. They told of how they went door to door collecting old metal pieces, often having to pay for it. They then take the metal to a recycling company that pays them for the metal. This has become a form of income for these men who would otherwise be struggling to provide for their families. It is encouraging to see that there is an emerging market for environmental jobs from a small scale in Zimbabwe, a country that has been so economically unstable that it has been difficult for many to gain and maintain any form of employment over the last decade. This is an encouraging indigenous entrepreneurial project though the men may not have in mind the environmental benefits of recycling, their ability to gain an income from reclaiming metal is contributing to the overall environmental efforts in Africa... a good news story indeed.

Rue's Friday Fragments #15

2011-01-07T22:32:00.003Z

Happy New Year!!!

A new year brings a new day, an opportunity to make right the wrongs of yesterday, to forge ahead with plans that promise a brighter tomorrow. A sunrise is just like a new year... When the sun sets the failures of the day are layed to rest and as the sun rises we have a new opportunity to make a fresh start, right wrongs and take on new challenges. The sunrise above is our gift to you, to remind you that every day brings a fresh start, a new beginning...change... From all of us at E:thos Photographic we wish you a very happy, prosperous and productive year! And we encourage you to start the way you mean to go on!

6. Picture of the week

We started the year with a BBQ!

5. The end of Facebook

So the week ended with a rumour that Facebook is on its way out...I'm not so sure that is a bad thing...

GOOD BYE....?????????????

4. Paramedic went shopping while responding to 999 call

This is unreal right? Imagine making a 999 call because you are in labour, or are bleeding profusely or your appendix burst...then you are kept waiting because the paramedic on duty has some personal errands to run down town? This is what happened in the UK an enquiry heard. Esther Thomas, went shopping in her ambulance at a local store instead of letting controllers know that her ambulance was available to respond to an emergency. She was suspended pending the enquiry that is currently taking place. I think she should be fired because her job is not just a job, the availability of emergency services and timing from when an incident / accident occurs and a call is made is crucial, anyone who does not take the responsibility of first response seriously should not be allowed to carry out that role.

3. Starbucks re-brand...but why?

Starbucks is apparently spreading its wings and as such it is changing its logo to allow more flexibility as they move into new markets it is reported. Starbucks Chief Executive, Howard Schultz said in a webcast that they are removing the wording in the circle (see image to the left) to leave just the Siren / nymph like figure which Starbucks believes will give them the freedom to move and think beyond coffee...sounds like the coffee house is making major changes, only time will tell what those changes are and if their loyal following will be on board...I for one love Starbucks coffee and may be inclined to try some of their new products out of loyalty, depending on what they will start selling.

2. Escheresque Images

The artist Josh Sommers creates amazing escheresque images using his own mathematical formula it has been reported. I dont know much about the method but his images are intriguing and pretty amazing. You can see some here.

1. Song of the week

A collaboration of Zimbabwean Urban Groove Musicians - We keep rolling...

I heard this song at the end of last year and thought it fitting for the start of this one. Some of the lyrics are in Shona, a Zimbabwean language but you will get the gist of it if you hang in there for the English verses. The reason I chose it is that it reviews the struggles, trials and issues faced by a couple throughout last year and at the end the conclusion is...we keep rolling...we keep moving forward...together...

And that's it for this week folks! Remember you can get in touch by commenting or emailing me at ethosphotographic@gmail.com

The Weekend in Black and White: Parliament Building, London

2011-01-07T18:36:00.001Z

Six Word Fridays: Resolved

2011-01-07T14:54:00.003Z

The clouds may form at once;

The rain may fall in abundance;

The thunder may roar very loudly;

Lighting may light up the sky;

Yet I will not be moved.

With a new year comes challenges;

With a new challenge comes adventure;

With a new adventure comes change;

With change all things become new;

I will rise to the challenge!

The Weekend in Black and White: Chimney Tops

2011-01-01T14:59:00.001Z

The Weekend in Black and White: Rail

2010-12-26T06:44:00.001Z

Merry Christmas from us to you!

2010-12-24T20:51:00.000Z

Hi I'm Rue, the artist and voice behind Passion in the Moments / E:thos Photographic. I would like to wish you all a very very merry Christmas!

Jesus...Son of God is the reason for the season...

Nat King Cole feat. Natalie Cole - The Christmas Song

Merry Christmas!!!!!

Dreaming of a white Christmas...

2010-12-18T12:20:00.002Z

The Weekend in Black and White: Bamboo Fence

2010-12-18T00:53:00.001Z

Six Word Fridays: Happiness is...

2010-12-18T00:49:00.000Z

Happiness is...Sunrise, a new day...
Happiness is...making a living today...
Happiness is...the simple things... life...
Happiness is...good health and vitality...
Happiness is...family and friends around...
Happiness is...having opportunity to choose...

Rue's Friday Fragments #14

2010-12-17T11:26:00.001Z

Hi I'm Rue, the artist and voice behind Passion in the Moments / E:thos Photographic. As you may have gathered in looking around the blog, I think a lot and share those thoughts with all and sundry (that is anyone who will listen!). This weekly posting is essentially an opportunity to share tid-bits, rants and observations that I have made in the course of the week that are not really worth writing a whole article about but are interesting nevertheless. These coupled with that odd picture I have taken that doesn't really fit in anywhere, news about what's going on @ E:thos and a review of something interesting, put together in one post makes up what I call Rue's Friday Fragments. There is humour, righteous indignation, sad truths and a little of me, so something for everyone...enjoy!

10. Picture of the week

A lovely summers day for the thick of winter...

9. Group of Students stabbed in Japan attack
This is a tragic story of a man who stabbed 13 students outside a train station in Japan. Worse still, 11 of the students were as young as 12 years old. IT is a sad thing when mental health is not given sufficient attention and the result is attacks of this nature. No one knows yet why the 27 yr old Yuta Saito did this but it has left many wounded, one seriously but thank God no one has died.

8. Inception...

I know I am probably behind on the whole movie scene but I have only just watched this movie and I am so kicking myself for not doing so earlier! I am apathetic when it comes to movies these days as most of them seem really rubbish, overly sexual or volent or both and normally with a stupid story line. So to watch this film and be constantly guess was such a refreshing change of pace, thank you Leo and the gang! Well worth my 90min!

7. BP oil spill saga continues...

Remember the BP / Gulf of Mexico oil spill that had Obama gracious comparing its impact to the city with 911? Well its not over, no sir. Apparently the US Government is now suing BP and 8 other companies involved in the incident for damages post the oil spill. The companies are all being sued for breach US Environmental Laws. This is likely to be a huge legal battle that will go on well into 2011 at least, we will keep an eye on it.

6. Time Magazine person of the year 2010 is...

Facebook's founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg at 26 years old

5. New beginnings are upon us...

As the year is coming to an end and a new year is fast approaching, if you could do anything, reinvent yourself, change your career to that one thing you have always wanted to do / be what would you do / become?

4. Wikileaks continue...
As more and more secret information continues to pour out, we are starting to see legal cases arising across the world from Africa to Europe and beyond... Sweedenn is having a spotlight at the moment... see more here

3. Inquest into nose job patient who died
This is a sad story of a lady who had a heart attack during her nose job surgery and yet the doctor continued to finish the job...needless to say she died at the age of 31. Paramedics were kept waiting by her plastic surgeon for 45 minutes after insisting on transferring her to Accident & Emergency in a private hospital in Kent, UK. The case occurred in 2005 though an inquest hearing took place this week were it was reported that the patient Mrs Kat McLure suffered brain damage during that surgery and died 6 months later. I am not a fan of plastic surgery and this is a good reason why not to be but it also highlights how some medical professionals can lose focus of the main priority...life...

2. A cleaner planet for our children

This is the UK's new recycling campaign image...love the world you are in. We all have our part to play in ensuring that our children / the next generation have a habitable planet...are you doing your part in your part of the world?

1. Song of the week
Areo Smith - I don't want to miss a thing...
For all those away from and missing their loved ones and those who have them close...don't take the time you have for granted.

And that's it for this week folks! Have a great weekend!!!!! And remember you can get in touch by commenting or emailing me atethosphotographic@gmail.com

Photo Friday: Gathering

2010-12-17T07:07:00.000Z

Together we gather as one...

Architectural Structures: Malawi, Africa

2010-12-15T00:12:00.007Z

Architecture is a significant part of the history and culture of people. Architectural practices from a locality are known as venecular architecture which essentially means traditional ways of constructing buildings among a group of people in a specific area. Through the movement of people from nomadic travel to colonialism there has been a mixture of architectural styles that have been shared among people. The long term effects of this mix in architectural styles and culture can be seen all over Africa.

The images below show some current architectural structures found in Malawi today. The images were taken in the country's 3rd largest city Mzuzu and a local trading centre called Ekwendeni. Trading centres are effectively new towns created at points along a transportation route allowing for truck stops. In this case Ekwendeni is situated on the route from Malawi to neighbouring Tanzania.

A rustic shelter constructed in a semi urban environment

Venecular architecture has evolved into a more western style of architecture

Qualified architects are not commonly engaged for design purposes as they are costly.
Individuals with some knowledge of design commonly draw a basic plan for experienced builders to follow.

A blair toilet
Though western styles of architecture have been adopted, not all domestic
properties are fully equipped with indoor toilet and bathroom. This is a sign of how
venecular architecture has slowly evolved.

Market Stalls
The market stalls have been constructed with wood and seem more like temporary structures.

Though many structures are made out of brick, there is a clear mixture of more traditional construction with the use of wood for a gate / fence between buildings.

In this image we see structures that are more venecular in nature with the use of
thatched roofing and wooden walls / doors. It is interesting to note that outside these
shops there are window frames on sale which indicate the adaptation of western style architecture.

There are many buildings in urban and semi urban areas that are completely western in
architectural style. This is a clear sign of the colonial influence on local architecture.

There has also been an adaptation of building use from the colonial era for example
this library and the post office in the image above.

Sunset

2010-12-14T21:39:00.001Z

The remains of the day...

Shutter Day Photo Challenge: Merry making

2010-12-11T10:48:00.000Z

Laughter is the heart of merry making

The Weekend in Black and White: Corridor

2010-12-10T23:59:00.000Z

Six Word Fridays: Gifted

2010-12-10T16:34:00.001Z

All of humanity is gifted...with life...

In and out we breath...gifted.

Sing a melody so sweetly...gifted.

Dance and tap in rhythm...gifted.

Make those around you laugh...gifted.

Entertain...make all at ease...gifted.

Faithful, diligent, earnest and true...gifted.

Alive, present and adding value...gifted.

Draw, paint, sculpt and photograph...gifted.

Loving, caring, thoughtful and humane...gifted.

Photo Friday: Tranquil

2010-12-10T06:35:00.000Z

Ekwendeni, Malawi, Africa

Rue's Friday Fragments #13

2010-12-10T01:01:00.000Z

10. Picture of the week

Scotland

9. China staging its own peace prize

I do enjoy it when governments and well adults in general throw their dollies out of the pram and start to act worse than terrible 2 year olds! This can be seen in China's well childish behaviour in now setting up its own peace prize because they got vexed that the Norwegian Nobel Committee awarded chose to honour Chinesse dissident Liu Xiaobo as this years laureate. Seriously! I just have no words! It is just as ridiculous as the group of Zimbabwean business men (who allegedly had the backing of the government) awarded the Zimbabwean LOSER of Big Brother Africa with a prize greater than the winner of the contest! What is the point of that? Honestly this is high level business and political child's play at its best!

8. NSPCC unofficial campaign

Many people this week responded to a campaign allegedly started by the NSPCC [National ] to change their Facebook (FB) profile picture to that of a cartoon character from their childhood in support of stopping abuse against children. Many people I know including myself did this and the fan page on FB for this campaign received 90 000 followers in the few days it was running. Sound good? I think so, people care about abused kids, that is definitely a good thing. The problem is the charity are not responsible for the campaign and didn't know anything about it. They released a statement to that effect but are grateful for the free publicity. The people responsible have not come forward and there are now rumours circulating that it was started by a paedophile ring trying to identify which FB uses are children. How? Well the call was to change your FB profile to a cartoon character from your childhood. I chose Jessica and Roger Rabbit but if I was ten I would have probably chosen sponge bob square pants or something of that nature... Here's hoping it was just a well wisher trying to raise awareness of this problem. Either way be extra vigilant in how your children befriend online. Personally I do not believe that a child under the age of 16 should have an FB account at all! Read the full news article here

7. 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence - A good start...

An acquaintance of facebook posted the following comment this week, 'a woman with no shoes working in a maize field in Ntcheu (Malawi) with her husband. The man was wearing wellington boots. It was raining too hard for me to take a picture...' This led to a long conversation about the realities of social culture having a huge impact on the behaviour and choices of people. My response was, ' I think the point here is that he didn't think. Certainly not more than think of himself...Having said that African men are not traditionally chivalrous but they are proud. Now having recently got a pair of boots I know they cost in the region of MWK2 000 which is steep for a poor family and I imagine having them is a symbol of some achievement financially so it does kinda make sense to me that the money they had to buy a pair was spent on the man. Is it right? No, but is it is a social culture attitude that needs to be addressed not just this guys one action. Other men do the same thing by only putting their name on the title deeds of their matrimonial home or not providing their wife with her own transportation or whatever. The message is that the man is more important and it is wrong but society and some law supports this attitude so yes it will take more than 16 days and a conversation on FB about boots to effect genuine change. That change also wont come if we simply give pple messages that this and that behaviour is wrong, we need to engage them in conversation and let them be part of the solution in changing this social culture once they are able to understand its failing...a huge task indeed...' So in a nut shell, it is great to have campaigns like 16 days of activism against gender violence but they are only a beginning, a starting point and in and of themselves not will change so there is much more to be done...

6. Dynamic Women change the world

I am a huge fan of Angelina Jolie! She is a very good actress but an even better parent and humanitarian which are two things that I think are the key to changing the world; investing in our children and looking beyond self and helping others. She is a UN Ambassador, mother of six, wife and professional, a very tall order but she seems to prioritise and make time for everything. Granted her early years were somewhat racy and not exemplary in any way but she has certainly turned her life around which is another thing that makes her a good role model, we always have a choice to change and to grow and to make a difference in the world and look outward where we were once introverted. See her in a recent interview with Larry King here where she talks about how she manages to do it all.

5. Obama compromises on tax

Its funny that Obama seems to be doing the back stroke on tax like the UK liberal democrat leader Nick Clegg is doing on tuition fees! Obama claims that his 'compromise' did not back track on campaign promises as his fellow Democrats feel he is...I wonder if Obama and Clegg got swimming lessons from the same political school of thought? Either way their parties are angry with them and you guessed it! Its the poor in their societies who will end up suffering the most!

4. Dealing with the recession
By now most people should be passing from stage four to or on stage five...what stage are you on?

3. Tuition Fees protests out of hand!
Really the students out burning things in the streets of London and behaving like football fans after a bad match are not inspiring me if this is the calibre of people who are actually going to attend university! Its not the first time this story has featured in my fragments because it just has not stopped and appears to be getting more violent by the week! Now that parliament has voted to increase the tuition fees there is pandemonium according to sky news footage I am viewing. Protesters are as I type smashing windows at the treasury building in London, are these people who actually have a level of education warranting tertiary education???? I am deeply disturbed by this behaviour.

2. The Art of Being Humane... Profile Feature: Disabled and destitute

Read the full story here

1. Song of the week

We are the world (New Haiti Version)

Spreading some love across the world this week, we are all made better people when we look beyond ourselves...

And that's it for this week folks! A day late but well worth waiting for I think! And remember you can get in touch by commenting or emailing me atethosphotographic@gmail.com

I-Heart Faces Photo Challenge: Self Portrait

2010-12-07T17:09:00.000Z

Just Rue...

Stop Property Grabbing

2010-12-04T16:16:00.000Z

Property grabbing... The practice of taking all material property from a widow and her children after her husband has passed away. This practise is carried out by the relatives of the husband and is common across Africa. Many women and children are left destitute in abject poverty when their property and material goods are taken.

The Weekend in Black and White: Separation of wealth

2010-12-04T06:35:00.003Z

Those who have enter the golf club in their Range Rovers, BMW's and Mercedes.
Those who have not simply pass by unaware of such luxury.

Six Word Fridays: Routine

2010-12-03T23:59:00.074Z

Children at play...Ekwendeni, Malawi

The morning time has a routine...

We wake as the cock crows;

We clean house and feed chickens;

We fetch water from the well;

We boil the water and bathe;

We take porridge if its there;

We walk ten miles to school.

The afternoon time has a routine...

We walk ten miles from school;

We gather in the home compound;

We share a meal all together;

We fetch water and feed chickens;

We then play, yes we play!

From things thrown we make toys.

The evening time has a routine...

We come home from play tired;

We clean farming tools for mother;

We help cook, we eat together;

We have a treat today...meat;

We read books by candle light;

Mother cannot help... she cannot read.

The night time has a routine...

We prepare ourselves for bedtime now;

We wonder if father will come;

We think, we wish, we pray;

That there will be food tomorrow;

That father will bring school fees;

That he will not abuse mother...

Six Word Fridays hosted by Making things up.com

Rue's Friday Fragments #12

2010-12-03T22:43:00.015Z

Inspirational Women

We have a new tab on our menu (top of the page under Peter) dedicated to inspirational women because we all need a little inspiration and I plan to find a few ladies who can give just that! Now this is not by any means sexist because gents you can be inspired to; inspired to appreciate your wives, mothers, sisters etc as well as hear about professional and artistic women's work and the challenges they face. I hope you enjoy!

10. Picture of the week

The sky... One of my favourite things to photograph...

9. Wiki-leaks

This is not just a media issue it is a moral one. I must say that I am a great believer in freedom of the press. It is a fundamental and important human right that we should be exposed to truth and be able to hold our legislators, leaders and judiciary to account for the decisions they make and the things they do. However, it is equally important that they can carry out their roles to protect us without fear of exposure to this type of media attention and exposure. State secrets are just that for a reason; if they are out in the public domain then the ability of our legislators and leaders to protect and govern us is compromised. Now I know that a whole variety of documents have been leaked and not all are state secrets but I am a great believer in codes of ethics and quite frankly there is a code of ethics and an employment contract that should have prevented the deplorable person who copied and leaked this information from doing so. The real issue in this story is this individual betraying his country in this manner and from what I hear there will be a suitable punishment for this action which I sincerely hope will include a long prison sentence to give this person an opportunity to reflect on the ramifications of their actions.

8. Have you got space for rent?

This one speaks for itself!

7. Lets spread the love of the game

Now I know there are many disappointed countries out there this week after the hosts for the 2018 and 2022 World Cup's were announced. [For normal non football people this is the international football / soccer tournament on the level of the Olympics for other sports but some would argue even more so important]. Now for the England bid, really folks you have the Olympics next year so its not the end of the world! And as far as the winners go, Russia and Qatar respectively, I think it is great that this tournament is being opened up to countries that may not traditionally be football people, (the whole we live in the desert with no open grass pitches may be a challenge for Qatar) but this is how the game will grow in my opinion so well done to the winners and to the losers, lets start talking 2026 and 2030!

6. Fake pregnancy kidnap teen

This story disturbed me on two counts. Firstly its a story about a teenage girl (late teens I think about seventeen or there abouts but still!) and granted this is Africa but I was still taken aback by the fact that this girl is married! OK let me start at the beginning...This girl was arrested for stuffing pillows under her shirt for eight months as a means of faking a pregnancy. Why you ask? Because she had been married for some time and had not managed to get pregnant so her husband, rather than stand up for her and tell his family to back off, persuades her to fake a pregnancy so they could steal a baby from someone else to keep the vultures at bay! No, there are three things that disturb me about this story; first her age, so young to be dealing with all this, secondly the absurdity with which the plan came about and thirdly that this cultural mindset that says a woman who does not bare children is useless and you should throw her back in and fish out another one is still very much the status quo in 2010!

5. Israel Fire

I am not sure how it started but I am sure praying for all those affected by, caught in and fighting Israel's largest forest fire in the Haifa area this week. More than 13 000 people have had to be evacuated from their homes to avoid the flames and a definitive number is yet to be published as to how many have died as a result of the fire. Apparently three quarters of the fire has been put out now but there is much to do with British, American and Greek forces among others, over there helping them gain control of this situation. The air is reported to be thick with smoke making visibility an issue but the very best people are on the job so lets keep them in prayer.

4. Dreaming of a white Christmas?
It is odd being in Africa in this glorious and relentless sunshine while yet another insane winter hits the UK! Last year was a haphazard mix of being snowed in, skidding on black ice, having a constant cold or staying in doors for days on end! At one point the country ground to a holt with ice on rail tracks and the grit/salt supply that give car tyres and indeed our feet some grip on icy roads and pavements ran out! So this is a reminder to Boris (London Mayor) and the rest of his colleges to stock up on grit and keep the roads and pavements clear so my friends and family can mobilise in the snow safely!

3. Ireland is broke!
This is not news per-say as Ireland have been broke for a long time, in fact many European countries are! The difference between Ireland and lets say an average African country is that when Ireland finally admitted what many of us knew all along, that they were going belly up; instead of the response an African country would get, that is the IMF (International Monetary Fund) and World Bank walk in check out what natural minerals / resources you have then slap you on the wrist and give you a list of demands if you are to get help. Help I might add which will find you only paying back the interest for four generations before you get anywhere at putting a dent on the principle loan. No,, this didn't happen to Ireland. Instead, Ireland got a big hug from its European friends and a loan that is manageable (well what is really manageable when you have no money?) but my point is that Ireland's help will actually help it get out of this slump and back on its feet again... now wouldn't that be nice for Africa too?

2. Warning Label
If you were to be adorned with a warning label, what would it say?
My warning label would say, 'Take cover, a force of nature is heading your way!' Lol!
You have a go!

1. Music video of the week
Where is the love? by the Black Eyed Peas
Apologies I couldn't find a version I could embed on this post so click on the link below to view the song.

Click here to view the video

I picked the song because it is the question that has been playing on my mind as I see such great suffering and poverty in Africa where dictators and corrupt governments freely oppress the poor and abuse their ignorance for their own benefit while the rest of the world watches...

And that's it for this week folks! A day late but well worth waiting for I think! And remember you can get in touch by commenting or emailing me atethosphotographic@gmail.com

Photo Friday: Chill

2010-12-03T04:51:00.001Z

The British Winter brings more than a chill...

I-Heart Faces Photography Challenge: Scenic B&W

2010-11-29T18:24:00.000Z

My sister with the Scottish Hills as a scenic backdrop.

The Weekend in Black and White:The craft stall at market

2010-11-27T06:52:00.001Z

Photo Friday: hands

2010-11-26T23:50:00.001Z

Henna Tattoo painted hands

To save a life...

2010-11-26T21:18:00.000Z

Thanks Giving

2010-11-26T20:49:00.003Z

We give thanks for another year;

Of provision and opportunity for growth.

We give thanks for time shared;

family and friends, health and strength.

We give thanks for hope assured...

We give thanks for Jesus Christ.

Give thanks

A hymn... [Author Unknown]

Give thanks with a grateful heart

Give thanks to the Holy One

Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His Son

And now, Let the weak say "I am strong"

Let the poor say "I am rich"

Because of what the Lord has done for us

Give thanks !

Rue's Friday Fragments #11

2010-11-26T00:01:00.006Z

30 before 30 update
I did it! I tried my hand at golf (well I hit the ball anyway...err on the second try! Lol!) and you know what, I think I may just take it up! Look out for my post on the day coming soon...

On the road...
I am in Africa at the moment and eagerly waiting for an opportunity to get out there and take some pics to share with you (but as I have not been too well my mother has me taking it easy and pacing myself so you may have to wait a little while but watch this space!!!)

10. Picture of the week

9. When should we let sleeping dogs lie?
I was watching the American Music Awards tonight and almost feel out of my chair when two groups of really old men took to the stage going by the names, 'New kids on the block' and 'back street boys'. Now seriously, I thought those guys grew up!?!?!?! Am I wrong? The thought of clutching at straws comes to mind here...

8. Dad's humour

My dad is a lawyer and enjoys lawyer jokes, this one in particular crosses professions and I thought was particularly special so I thought I would share :)
' A doctors mistakes are buried;
A lawyers mistakes are put behind bars;
A teachers mistakes are seen walking around the street and in every work establishment across the city!' Lol!

7. United States of Africa [USA 2]

Seriously? Where do I start on this one???? Maybe we should start by talking about the dictatorships and civil wars present on the continent, or maybe the debt, or lawlessness / bribery / corruption that is rampant across boarders... Unifying this mixed bag of political disasters will do one thing, spoil the good ones, the democratic and fair ones and the ones really trying to get there...so in a word? NO! This idea does not get my vote!!!

6. North vs. South Korea

Well I just don't know but I think it is safe to say that the Koreans fighting each other is a bad idea! The complexity of how this squabble affects the whole region can be simplified by thinking of the world as a role of London houses. If one catches fire then the whole lot will eventually go down too! What am I saying? Well the Korean fight affects Russia and China and they have allies and enemies who will be affected who have the same and so on until we are all in it! This is also the way world wars begin so here's hoping this will end and quickly...

5. Happy Thanksgiving America!

For those who celebrate Thanksgiving, have a good one! Guess that means Christmas is around the corner! Oh dear, already!

4. Mining tragedy

My heart goes out to the miners and their families who were lost in the New Zealand disaster...After the success in Chile, I had taken for granted that these miners would be successfully rescued so it was a shock indeed to hear of the second explosion that took place this week. My prayers are with all the families and those directly affected by this sad event.

3. Malawi 2010

An art exhibition in Malawi, southern Africa by Dutch photographer Arjen van de Merwe was showing from November 17th - 26th which showcased a collection of images staged for this event. Included in this artistic work was a local clothing designers whose clothes the female models wore. The exhibition was designed to raise awareness of social and cultural issues that seem to be causing a generational divide in the country by getting the models to pose in various positions typical of gender roles in Malawi. It was interesting to observe and get into discussion about each image with the photographer and fellow exhibition attendees.
It made for an interesting evening and most certainly left food for thought...

2. Longoria / Parker divorce
Eva ' Desperate housewives' Longoria is divorcing her toy boy husband Tony Parker due to his infidelity... Honestly I am surprised it lasted this long in the first place! Not to be mean but its Hollywood and in Hollywood the odds of marital success are low, and even lower if the wife is older e.g. Madonna and Guy... and therein lies my point.

1. Video of the Week
Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes - Time of my life
This pick is due to the new remix of this song by Black Eyed Peas which reminded me how great this song is.

And that's it for this week folks! A day late but well worth waiting for I think! And remember you can get in touch by commenting or emailing me atethosphotographic@gmail.com

I-Heart Faces Photo Challenge: Paper

2010-11-22T17:42:00.000Z

Freedom is...

2010-11-21T10:28:00.001Z

Photo Friday: Vivid

2010-11-20T04:11:00.001Z

Weekend in Black and White: A walk in the city

2010-11-20T00:01:00.002Z