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Artist in Profile:
Renaud Paradis
With digital cameras in the palms of most everyone these days, it is unique to find someone like Renaud Paradis. Proclaiming himself an “old school” photographer, Renaud uses a Nikon manual camera and then developes the film himself. He also makes his own frames. “I can’t even get slides developed in town anymore.” he says. So for a small fee, he can spend hours in the darkroom provided at the Visual Arts Center. Renaud’s thought provoking images stem from his work outside as a tree planter, where he finds most of his subject matter. He comes from a sculpting background and uses that to express photography by creating the subject from start to finish. Last year, the Woolsey Creek Cafe showed Renaud’s photos for two months. “It was great exposure, and I was happy with the results. One guy from Vancouver bought a photo called Retired. It is an old pair of boots on a log with moss growing out of them.” The photo was for the man’s Father, who was a retired logger.
Later, Renaud started experimenting with what he calls contemporary photos. Here he focuses on an aspect of the subject, like the dramatic angles of a dead tree. What I like most about Renaud Paradis’ work is that you really have to stop and look at the image. It is not at first obvious what the subject is. He has you captured and stepping in for a closer look. You then realize that it could be a close up of rippling waters or the bark of an old cedar. Perhaps you were lucky enough to visit the Arts Centre when Renaud’s photos were being displayed. If not, you might be able to arrange a personal showing. Renaud can be contacted at 837-2064.
Emerging:
Jez Bonham
Around grade ten,
Jez Bonham started messing around with video cameras and making PSA annoucments at Revelstoke Secondary. Around the same time, a lot of people started asking, “What do you want to do with your life?” He could only think of one thing: film.
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Reved : What have you been doing since graduation?
Jez: Right now, I am studying everything there is to know about the motion picture industry at Capilano College in Vancouver.
R: How do you see yourself contributing to the world of film?
J: So far I have made a one minute short and some amatuer work. I want to come out with some really good movies that leave the audience feeling good about themselves.
R Who are your biggest supporters?
J My parents are very supportive no matter what and that gives me incentive to work even harder. Also, I’ll always remember a time when my best friend Scott gave me a boost of confidence that will stay with me wherever I go.
R: What is your best method of self-motivation?
J: My motivation comes from my ambition, my close friends and family. From wanting to make a film for the world to love or hate and because I have the gift of opportuntiy to pursue my dream.
R: Do you feel that Revelstoke Secondary School had a part in helping you either with specific courses or through teacher support?
J: Although RSS really had no film classes, the amount of support I received from teachers was overwhelming. I am grateful that they are so eager to help their students succeed in whatever they choose to do. My senior years had a major part in my career decision and I just want to personally thank the teachers who guided me in and outside of class.
[Summer 2005 Article]
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