Now Is the Time

Now Is the Time

From Tree Encounters by William Workman, to be published in LensWork Extended #104

Life is short. Time is precious.

Two quick entries this afternoon that remind me of this, and why we should all be mindful of the cost of postponing our art life until we have time.

Michael Reichmann reports that he is emerging from his chemotherapy and doing well. A blessing to his family and friends. A welcome bit of news to all of us who value his wisdom, insight, integrity, and contributions to photography.

Then, this afternoon. We recently reviewed and selected William Workman's submission, Tree Encounters, for publication in LensWork Extended #104. Bill did not own a computer nor have email, so Maureen called Bill at his home to share the news that his work had been selected for publication. Instead, Bill's wife (of 47 years) informed Maureen that Bill was diagnosed with cancer in August and had passed away in October. The submission he sent to us was dated September 29th. Bill must have known that "Now is the time." We both admired Bill's photographic spirit — the way he never stopped venturing out to photograph his waterfalls, rocks, and trees — even until he was 80. He clearly loved photography, and it is our honor to posthumously publish his final portfolio.

Yes, time is precious. Worth remembering in this special time of year as we celebrate and look to next year.

Brooks' books on photography and the creative process are available in print from Lulu.com, and as eBooks for Kindle or EPUB readers. As one of the membership benefits, these eBooks are available in their entirety to members of LensWork Online via download.

Comments

[Chuck Kimmerle]

Wow, I am equal parts sad and happy. Not easily done. I cannot help but think that being in Lenswork, the goal of many serious photographers, will ease, at least a little bit, Bill's passing. It is one helluva tribute.

[Godfrey]

We don't understand how precious Time is when we are young and still immortal. With good fortune, that awareness comes earlier rather than later, before mortality eliminates all our dreams and options.

I'm saddened to hear that Bill will not have the joy of seeing his work in Lenswork. I'll have to celebrate it that much more for him to ensure the immortality of his spirit in memory.