Pastel Balloons

“Pastel Balloons” image created at Riverside Place, Spokane, WA

Last week, I had the wonderful opportunity to work on photo projects at Riverside Place in Spokane, Washington. Capturing images in a historic building provides a stunning backdrop for artistic expression. Originally constructed as a Masonic Temple, Riverside Place opened its doors in 1905 and underwent an expansion in 1925. It stands as a remarkable example of Neo-Classical Revival architecture and holds significant historical importance for the city of Spokane.

The time I spent at Riverside Place served as a fantastic artistic retreat, allowing several artists, including myself, to engage in collaborative projects across photography and film. Alongside developing my own pieces, I was privileged to assist many young artists in discovering their creative voices and moving closer to their aspirations. Contributing to others’ artistic visions is just as rewarding as the opportunity for personal growth and learning.

Eager to take full advantage of the creative possibilities during the week, I sought to incorporate the diverse backgrounds offered by this remarkable building. As I focus on developing a portfolio centered on identity, I chose to photograph a model with her face obscured, using balloons to create this effect. Since my model is known for her pink and pastel colors, I utilized that color palette to my advantage. My goal was to craft an image that harmoniously blended the character of the location with the pastel balloons, resulting in a compelling final piece. The image above reflects the outcome of that effort.