Local Features "Townies" in First Friday Exhibit

Santa Cruz photographer, Poppy de Garmo, is one of many Santa Cruz residents participating in the First Friday art exhibit on June 3rd.

Her work, titled Annual Townies Photography Exhibit, takes a close look at locals or "townies," through portrait photography.

“This is a project I plan to work on and feature as an exhibition each year," Poppy said. “ This is the first year, and i'll expand the exhibition as the years go on and include some in-depth bios.”

The inspiration of Poppy's art is featured right in her work – people. Poppy  says her work includes photos of her friends and acquaintances, and that she's inspired by people, particularly those who would be unlikely muses.

“ I wanted to shoot interesting people who do interesting things, which is why many of the photographs are of artists,” Poppy said.

As far as using photography as her preferred medium, Poppy says she likes photography because of its soulful feel.

“When I look through the camera, I see an inner spirit,” Poppy said. "Looking into a camera, deliberately, I am able to take the time to stop and look at a person ... and they are able to take the time to stop and look at me and my lens.”

Poppy said she also enjoys photography because it allows her to take a moment and view the world in still life.

“There is so much movement in the world today and stopping the action inspires me,” she said. “I tend to chose photos that are 'between' poses.”

Poppy said her first experience with photography began in her childhood, after she was given one of her father's old cameras.

“I was immediately hooked and started taking photos of friends at school, [and later] became the photo editor of my high school yearbook,” Poppy  said. “There was a darkroom in the house –  I loved to print –  I'd print until late into the night.”

Poppy's interest in photography paid off throughout the years, as she began photographing rock stars, and later worked with two big music producers, Bill Graham and Howard Stein, among other prominent figures and publications.

Tonight will be Poppy's fourth Friday participating in the art exhibit and her work will be shown along side three fellow photographers: Naomi Gardner, Kerrie Boerem, and Jim Schwartz.

Her work can be viewed from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m.  At 1010 Fair Ave., Studio B, Santa Cruz. Refreshments, food and music are provided.