Verona Italy

Two of Shakespeare‘s plays are set in Verona: Romeo and Juliet and The Two Gentlemen of Verona. It is unknown if Shakespeare ever visited Verona or Italy at all, but his plays have lured many visitors to Verona and surrounding cities. The city has been awarded World Heritage Site status by UNESCO because of its urban structure and architecture.

 Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can acquire his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Cavazzone (azienda agricola e agrituristica)

Cavazzone has produced balsamic vinegar for generations. A winding 40 minute drive from Reggio Emilia, Italy to this magnificent location. Ask for Umberto Sidoli, the owner. Perhaps you will be fortunate enough to be taken on a tour of this extraordinary property!

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can acquire his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan

Only steps from the Duomo you will find this magnificent mall, a glass and iron covered gallery. Breathtaking

!Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can acquire his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

The Duomo Cathedral of Milan – A Coney Island of the Mind

“In Milan, in spite of weariness, we climbed up to the roof of the Duomo and there amused ourselves with the fine population of figures of that eye-catching marble garden”

Hermann Hesse, 1903

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can acquire his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

The Duomo Cathedral of Milan

Henry James : “A structure not supremely interesting, not logical, not … commandingly beautiful, but grandly curious and superbly rich. … If it had no other distinction it would still have that of impressive, immeasurable achievement … a supreme embodiment of vigorous effort.”

It is so complex so as to confuse. But, when viewed on a broader level, an appreciation of this structure keeps producing wonder. If you plan on visiting, get there early before the crowds and seek access to the elevator that will take you to the top. The interior doesn’t compete with some other cathedrals, but the exterior is insanely intricate and magnificent. Its very complexity creates a photographic puzzle which is extremely difficult to capture. When in Milan, give yourself several hours to enjoy.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can acquire his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Roman Rain (series)

Italian Fine Art Photography, Images of Rome

As I wandered the streets of Rome, the heavens opened and spewed forth this wonderful opportunity. I huddled in a doorway hoping for the rains to slow, when this image revealed itself, a colorful umbrella reflecting on the sidewalk below.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Roman Rain

Waiting for the rain to stop

The beautiful weather turned quickly, but opportunity came calling.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

The Winner of The Fomenar Prize is Announced

PRIZE 2016

Longest Night – Eastern State Penitentiary

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

ROME, ITALY: 2/12/2017

PhotoArtist Rich Smukler of the United States has been awarded  the first prize for his haunting image “Longest Night” taken at the Eastern State Penitentiary in his home town, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Smukler is one of 30 finalists for this coveted award. The exhibition of all 30 finalists will take place

From April 1 to April 14, 2017 (including the Easter week) at Arte Borgo gallery in Rome. The Arte Borgo gallery is located in Rome, in the heart of the Borgo district, a few steps from the Vatican city, a location which allows a considerable visibility to art lovers during the time of the year when Rome is most visited.

The opening reception will be held 4/1/2017 at Arte Borgo Gallery
Borgo Vittorio 25
ROMA – ITALY
Tel.: +39 06 44 61 945 at 18:00 h

A follow up Exposition of this work will be presented at Stilgalerie in Vienna, Austria 6/5/2017 through 6/16/2017. More information to follow.

To win this award one had to go through a two-tiered process. Firstly, the 30 finalists were selected from a highly respected jury of seven individuals. The remaining 30 finalists then voted amongst themselves as to whom the prize should be awarded. Smukler states, “to be selected by a jury of my piers is a special honor for me.”

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Longest Night travels to Rome

PRIZE 2016

I am thrilled to announce that I will be one of 30 artists named as finalists. The opening reception will be held 4/1/2017 at Arte Borgo Gallery
Borgo Vittorio 25
ROMA – ITALY
Tel.: +39 06 44 61 945 at 18:00 h

Longest Night – Eastern State Penitentiary

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

25th All Florida Show selects Swamp’s Edge by Rich Smukler

Swamp’s Edge will be exhibited at this year’s 25th Annual All Florida Juried Art Show. This stunning Black and White archival print was captured in Delray Beach Florida and was first exhibited at The Marin Museum of Contemporary Art in Novato, California. It is currently showing at La Rondine Gallery in Bagni di Lucca located in northwestern Tuscany.

Located in downtown Stuart, Florida, The Arts Council of Martin County has been a leader in the arts community since 1980. The exhibition’s Opening Reception & Awards is Friday, September 25, 2015, 5:30 to 7 PM and runs through Saturday, November 14, 2015 to be held at The Court House Cultural Center, 80 East Ocean Blvd., Stuart, Florida 34994 / 772.287.6676. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10 AM to 4 PM; Saturday, 11 AM to 2 PM.

Rich Smukler specializes in Landscape and Fine-Art Photography from his studio in South Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 21 – Finale)

Our last day is spent in Florence, a magnificent city. Be prepared for the crowds, however. It has been a wonderful journey and I hope you enjoyed some of the stops along the way. A special thanks to Michael Cartwright and Shona Nunan of The Rondine Gallery in Bagni di Lucca for their guidance and support. Ciao to Bella Italia until we return.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 20)

For those who have the time, the rolling landscape of the Val d’Orcia is interlaced with ancient trails that connect many of the villages and towns in the area, passing through scenic, contemplative countryside. These walking paths have been around forever, the way people traveled before the advent of the automobile. Take your time and breathe this in. There are walking paths seemingly everywhere, hidden from the frenetic traveler.

Tomorrow is our last day of this wonderful voyage. We are off to Florence.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 19)

The Hills above The Square of Sources, Bagno Vignoni.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day18)

From the hills outside the center of Bagno Vignoni with Rocca d’Orcia in the background.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day17)

BAGNO VIGNONI is an ancient village in the heart of Tuscany situated in the Val d’Orcia National Park. I was first introduced to it years ago when studying at TPW (Toscana Photographic Workshop) as it had become a favorite evening hangout for many of the students.

By day, this sleepy village hosts wonderful hillside and mountain views of the valley below. You are also treated to a haunting scene of Rocca d’Orcia in the distance.

Enjoy the thermal waters that course through the hills and carve fascinating archeological dig-like opportunities; a small park with children; the occasional hardy biker; folks staying at the nearby hotels and spas dipping their feet in the waters. But at night, it all begins to happen! The holiday-like lights throughout the village take over from the long Tuscan setting of the sun. The Square of Sources captures the reflections from the surrounding shops and restaurants. Its’ glow is magical.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 16)

Both San Quirico and Pienza are magical, ancient Tuscan towns. They are connected by an extraordinarily exciting road that  strums the true sounds of Tuscany. For years I have driven the 6.25 miles of this amazing highway and never tire of it.

SP146 / Strada Provinciale di Chianciano ribbons through the Tuscan countryside and is the stuff that Lamborghini and Ferrari must have had in mind. Go as the sun rises or as the sun is stretching its long shadows from the west. Any time of year will reveal the many facets of this magnificent countryside. There is one lane in each direction with multiple winding curves that provide a bonanza of sight lines. At a decent speed the entire ride is about 15 minutes. Downshifting into one of the many hairpins brings a broad smile to your face.

For a little extra delight, as you approach Pienza, look to your left for a sign to Santa Anna Comprena. This back road will take you to the 15^th Century Monastery where Director Anthony Minghella shot many scenes from his movie The English Patient starring Juliette Binoche and Ralph Fienes. The setting is both serene and haunting.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day15)

Heading towards the south of Tuscany for our final week, it is time to enjoy some of Montalcino‘s famous Brunello di Montalcino. The vineyards surrounding Montalcino are about 120km south of Florence in the Tuscany wine region. In 1980, Brunello di Montalcino was awarded the first Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) designation and today is one of Italy’s best-known and most expensive wines.

The hill upon which Montalcino sits has probably been settled since Etruscan times. Its first mention in historical documents in 814 AD suggests there was a church here in the 9th century, most likely built by monks associated with the nearby Abbey of Sant’Antimo.

About 9km down the road from Montalcino you can find the Abbey of Sant’Antimo. Though its history is somewhat obscure, it is believed to have been in existence since the 8th century.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 14)

Pietrasanta is a town and comune on the coast of Northern Tuscany in the province of Lucca. This medieval jewel has roman origins dating back to 1255.

It has been over seven years since we were last here, and little has seemed to change, except for the magnificent art work that adorns the city center and essentially everywhere you walk and look. Scores of artists have congregated here to feed from the synergy of creative juices.

If coming for the first time, my strong recommendation is that you make sure to be here during the evening. This sleepy town comes to life as the sun goes down; restaurants and shops open, street mimes, musicians and entertainers all come out to make this a completely entertaining experience. For those enjoying the beach, you are only three kilometers from what is considered one of nicest.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 13)

Heading through the mountains from Castelnuovo di Garfagnana to Pietrasanta is nothing short of an amazing experience! Open your windows; turn off the radio; and breathe in the best that mother nature can dish out!

As you approach the west coast you sense something very special happened here. The marble mines in the Apuan Alps is where Michelangelo secured so much of the marble he worked with.Pietrasanta, is a wonderful artists’ village, stocked with scores of sculptors, painters, artists of all types, which create a unique and delighful environment. It will be tomorrow’s stop on our journey.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 12)

Lucca is a vibrant city known for its pedestrian promenade that encircles the city upon its exterior walls, once of military significance and later in the 20th Century as a race track for cars!. The town dates back to the Etruscans and became a Roman colony in 180 B.C. The old world charm is blended with upscale shops and energy. Its history is dramatic and chocked full of interesting sights, cafes, restaurants and people.Both residential and commercial, there is a lovely combination of serenity and electricity.  Lucca should be placed on your “to do”list.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 11)

Barga is a marvelous medieval fortress town that has roots going back to the 9th Century. It is the chief town of the mid-valley of the Serchio River and located about 22 miles north of the provincial capital, Lucca.  Positioned on the Gothic Line in World War II, it was a major military objective as the allied forces moved north against the German army. Bring your walking shoes, as the alleys and walkways are quite steep and challenging. But, the charm and sites are well worth it.Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 10)

Travel about 30 minutes north of Bagni di Lucca and you’ll find Lucchio. After what seems to be an interminable and challenging drive up the winding and narrow mountain road, you will come upon this ancient, medieval village that at times rises above the clouds. About 25 residents live in this amazing scenographic treasure that still has remains from its mountaintop fortress dating back to the 11th Century. It was once one of the most strategic positions in the whole valley. Sit quietly and breathe deeply. The soft breeze and quietude are deafening. You wonder how people live and lived here; the wars fought and lives lost here. It is unimaginably beautiful and serene. I must return to this place.Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 9)

Fabbriche di Vallico is a comune (municipality) in the Province of Lucca in the Italian region of Tuscany, located about 70 kilometres (43 mi) northwest of Florence and about 20 kilometres (12 mi) northwest of Lucca.

The main village of the comune, Fabbriche, was founded by ironworkers from Bergamo in the 14th century.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 8)

Back in Bagni di Lucca for the beginning of week two, we came upon this magnificent structure. I was told this was originally a church and currently used as a library, but I have not received confirmation. Any information on this incredible piece of architecture would be welcomed. It is just below villas occupied by Lord Byron and also Mary Shelley, where she in part worked on her first novel, Frankenstein.Just down the street is the charming Parco Publico Contessa Casalini. Walking into the park I experienced a rare deja vu. I knew this place. I had been there. Though it was impossible, as I had never been to this part of the country before. It was a good and warm feeling, not one that would creep you out. I don’t know.Just across the street was Il Circolo dei Forestieri, a restaurant with delicious offerings where we were told that Mussolini’s daughter had once taken dance lessons upstairs. As you walked to the rear of the building, and just to the right of this walking bridge which crosses the Lima River, Elisabeth Barrett and Robert Browning lived. If you believed in ghosts …

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 7)

To finish off the first week, we travel south of Ponte A Serraglio about three miles towards Lucca. The Maddalena’s Bridge, also known as The Devil’s Bridge, connects the two banks of the river Serchio at the height of Borgo a Mozzano. Its construction goes back to  (1046-1115) and later reconstructed (1281-1328). It’s interesting design nearly stopped me in my tracks!

“Devil’s Bridge is a term applied to dozens of ancient bridges, found primarily in Europe. Most of these bridges are stone or masonry arch bridges and represent a significant technological achievement. Each of the Devil’s Bridges has a corresponding Devil-related myth or folktale.

Local lore often wrongly attributes these bridges to the Roman era, but in fact many of them are medieval, having been built between 1000 and 1600 AD. In medieval times some Roman roads were themselves considered beyond human capabilities and needs, and therefore had to have been built by the devil.” wikipedia

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 6)

Nothing beats the late day Tuscan light that goes on forever. A glass of that local, delicious red wine and some reflecting on The Lima River in Bagni Di Lucca.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day2)

A late afternoon rain swept into Bagni di Lucca and helped produce this dreamy image. The surrounding mountainside is home to ancient villages and etruscan ruins.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Three Weeks in Tuscany (day 1)

DAY 1 –  Located along the Lima River, BAGNI di LUCCA is a delightful historic spa center in Northern Tuscany. Situated north of Lucca, the town and its thermal springs reached their height in the 19th century when they were a favorite of Napolean’s sister Elisa, Tsar Demidoff, Puccini, and British visitors such as Byron, Shelley, and the Brownings.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Bliss honored by IPA -The International Photography Awards

IPA, The International Photography Awards conducts an annual competition for professional, non-professional, and student photographers on a global scale, creating one of the most ambitious and comprehensive competitions in the photography world today. Bliss, by Rich Smukler, was awarded Honorable Mention in the Professional Photographers’ One Shot Home category. This stunning black and white was captured in Ravello, Italy, hovering over the luxurious Amalfi Coast. Smukler has spent a considerable amount of time exploring the Italian landscape and will be presenting a solo exhibition of his work “Una Retrospettiva Fotografica” at Galleria La Rondine in Bagni Di Lucca from June 6 thru June 14, 2015. The opening is at 6:30PM and open to public without charge.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile).

Rich Smukler Retrospective at La Rondine Gallery in Bagni di Lucca

La Rondine Gallery is located in the beautiful Northern Tuscan village of Ponte a Serraglio in the commune of Bagni di Lucca. Since the Renaissance, this village has attracted artists of all disciplines to take refuge and rest in its thermal valley and spectacular vistas. Smukler had studied photography for seven summers at TPW (Tuscano Photographic Workshop) is San Quirico D’Orcia. He was blessed with the opportunity to study with such photographic luminaries as Arno Rafael Minkkinen (known world-wide and himself a student with Harry Callahan and Aaron Siskind), Sandro Santioli (lauded by many for his mastery of landscape photography), Bob Sasha (known for his photographic story telling and winner of a Pulitzer, Emmy and Webby) and David Alan Harvey (named Magazine Photographer of the Year by the National Press Photographers Association).

Though Lucca is to the north, Tuscany is like a second home to Smukler and represents a milestone in his career. For 2 special weeks, a solo show of his works will be on exhibit for townspeople  and visitors alike. The opening reception is Saturday, June 6th at 6 to 9 pm. The show will run until June 14, 2015. There is no charge for admission.

Rich Smukler currently resides in Boca Raton, Florida. His works have been featured in numerous museums, galleries and private collections internationally. You can see more of his works at http://www.richsmuklerphoto.com. (Kick back and stay awhile)