The artists speak for themselves:

Richard Sparks

My first exposure to photography was 30 years ago. I was a freshman in college, looking for an interesting elective class, so I picked Basic Photography. I loved it so much I ended up taking every photography class they offered.

For years my primary interest in life was photography. I worked in a camera store; I did portraits on the side. I worked two seasons for the National Park Service and managed to work photography and video production into my duties. I got a job as a newspaper photographer so I could shoot every day. And when I wasn't working, I did landscape photography.

In 1993, I was selected by Outdoor & Travel Photography magazine as one of the best landscape photographers from among hundreds of reader submissions. The magazine featured my panorama photograph of Poppy Hill in their first annual All Reader's Issue.

The idea of documenting classic scenery of the American west first came to me when I found the Alabama Hills in 1994. I was soon marketing these images as note cards, refrigerator magnets, and matted and framed prints through retails outlets in Lone Pine and Independence, California.

I live in Tehachapi, California, now, working as a freelance photographer. With my graphic designer wife, Christine we offer marketing consultation to small businesses. Our services include illustration, graphic design for print and web, logo and website development.

Wayne Waddell

I have enjoyed the adventures of black and white and color film for 43 years. My photgraphic adventures are now combined with digital photography.

Photographing one’s journey, our earth’s beautiful and magnificent splendors, and the lives of others has been inspirational. Great pleasures are derived from the challenges of traveling to or coming from some of America’s most special nooks and crannies.

I began my photographic journey on my 13th birthday when I got a Kodak Starflex camera complete with a removable flash attachment. That camera became my best friend and companion, but I lost it while on tour in Vietnam. I’ve had several cameras since, while serving as a US Army Photographer and a freelancer.

I’ve also used my photographic skills within the aerospace industry at Vandenberg and Pt Mugu. I will admit, one of my dreams is to win the Pulitzer Prize in Photography. A second dream is to write and photograph the famous “Route 66” for a “two-lane” adventure story.

My simple parting comment is always, “I love photography.”

Michael Robinson

I’ve lived in Tehachapi with my wife Pam since 1982, where we’ve raised two sons, both graduated from Tehachapi High School. I’ve been involved with digital photography for a year, and I’m looking to further developing my talent and style in this field.

I find my best inspiration for my work in the colors and patterns of nature. Two of my photographs have been included in a local 2006 calendar.

I’m also pleased to note that I entered the TVAA photography contest in February earlier this year and was awarded a first place ribbon in the Digitally Enhanced category, and I won an honorable mention in the Miscellaneous category.

The public is invited to come meet these talented photographers on August 5, and remember that the photography show will run through the entire month of August.

Gallery ‘n’ Gifts is located at 100 W Tehachapi Boulevard; call 822-6062 for more information on the art show or any upcoming TVAA events and activities.