A hands-on workshop exploring black and white photography — led by two alumni exhibitors of San Francisco’s de Young Museum — is being held Oct. 19-20 and Oct. 26 at Alameda’s Frank Bette Center for the Arts.
“The Art (and Craft) of Black & White Photography” is being taught by two East Bay photographers, Sharonda “Westeigh” Grant and Jeff Heyman, who met when both of their black and white photographs were selected for the 2023 de Young Open at the San Francisco museum. The workshop explores how to make dramatic black and white photographs with a film camera, digital camera or even a smartphone.
Black and white photography is said to strip away the distractions of color, leaving simply light, shadow and emotion. The absence of color is thought to help reveal the truth of a moment — honest, timeless and quietly powerful. Workshop attendees are pledged to learn how to make compelling black and white photos no matter what their skill levels are or which cameras they use.
“Black and white photography holds a unique power for expression, and we are passionate about the art of monochrome photography and want to share the knowledge we’ve gained,” said Grant.
“We look forward to exploring the craft and the range of creative possibilities that black and white photography presents with students of all ages and backgrounds during the workshop,” Heyman added.
The workshop will feature a classroom session, including an overview of the history of black and white photography, a discussion of black and white photographic styles and a demonstration of editing techniques that can be used to create stunning black and white photographs. There will also be a photographic field trip to Alameda’s former Navy base and a gentle critique of everyone’s photographs with helpful feedback. The fee is $125.
Enroll now in “The Art (and Craft) of Black & White Photography” at frankbettecenter.org/black-white-photography or by calling 510-523-6957.
— Jeff Heyman
An area nonprofit group offering free textbooks to underprivileged college students thrived under its long-serving president. a new leader took over after the president resigned, but within six months a concerning trend emerged: The organization’s cash balance was rapidly depleting. A member investigated and found the new president was misusing funds for personal expenses, threatening the group’s financial health and trust with donors.
The member reported the findings to authorities, prompting an investigation. In response, the organization implemented stronger financial oversight, ensuring transparency and regular reviews to safeguard its resources and restore integrity.
If you have a question about the law or a complaint in the city of Alameda, contact the Alameda City Attorney’s Office at rfenix@alamedacityattorney.org. The office’s Prosecution and Public Rights Unit enforces the law and educates the public on issues including tenants’ rights, workers’ rights and consumer protection.
— Rico Fenix, paralegal/investigator, Alameda City Attorney’s Office
Temple Israel on Alameda’s Bay Farm Island will present their annual Alameda Holiday Fest shopping expo from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 17 in a free event at the temple.
A great way to keep your money in the local economy, this festival will feature dozens of vendors and local artists from throughout the Bay Area selling a variety of gift-giving options to complete their holiday shopping in one spot.
Items for sale will include art, books by local authors, candles, jewelry, honey, soap, fused glass, handmade cards, clothing and more. Gift cards will also be available to buy for those hard-to-shop-for people on your list.
Temple Israel is at 3183 Mecartney Road in the Harbor Bay Isle section of Alameda’s Bay Farm Island. Parking will be free and lunch and breakfast options will be available for purchase in the on-site cafes or at a bake sale to tempt your sweet tooth.
Email events@templeisraelalameda.org or call 510-522-9355 for more information. Preview vendor offerings on Facebook at facebook.com/AlamedaHolidayFest.
— AmericanTowns Press Services
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