Photographer - Rebecca L. Fox
Welcome, welcome, welcome to the myserious, magical world of "The Mystic Women of Salem" project.I am a Photography Major at Salem State University, completing my minor in Women's Psychology this semester.
In summer 2010, I was working in the photography department at the University and my supervisor Kim (a fine art photographer) inspired me in many, many ways. One of which being this project. I ran the idea by my son, William who has been in the publishing field for the last ten years in New York City. Ultimately we decided to collaborate and bring "The Mystic Women of Salem" to life. Since a project like this has never been done in Salem (which to this day still shocks me) I began to feel the "fuel" building around the project. Shortly thereafter the project was launched and believe me when I tell you..."she" hit the ground running! William and I developed a criteria, schedule, and a summary of the project.
Scheduling is critical as physical impairments dominate every aspect of my life. I have 3 1/2 pounds of steel in my spine and am declared disabled by physicians and the government. So, even going to school is MAJOR for me. My appearance is very deceiving (plus, I work really hard to hide my disability) which makes me feel it necesssary to inform you all so you will understand what's happening. At times, it is apparent during shoots and when I walk.
Soon after, interviewing for potential "Mystic" subjects began. To date I have interviewed almost 50 women and will continue to do so. Scheduling shoots and notification of the first round of selected mystic women began in November 2010. The ultimate goal is to interview 40 to 60 women, there will be 21portraits in the book. The criteria is very strict and must be met in order to be a potential "Mystic Woman." So far, the women I have interviewed have been extraordinary and fascinating (I could write a book about the interviewing process alone).
This blog will contain behind the scenes photographs and will document the highlights of shoots and stories of the magical, mystical, as well as humorous events that will undoubtedly occur over the course of this project. I, along with a genius lighting designer have already designed the preliminary elements necessary to do a theater production (complete with original lighting, sound, vocals, and special effects) for the launching of "The Mystical Women of Salem". Wow...this project just keeps gathering momentum and steam! She (MWS) has a life of her own and powers so strong and evident, that it continues to shock me. Since conception I have come to learn that the Team and I are mere vehicles being used to bring life to this project. Her agenda is still unclear, however, I am sure her intentions will become "glaring" as time goes on. So visit often, events are continuous and MWS is constantly changing, so visit often and by all means follow your favorite Mystic Woman by becoming a follower of the blog! R:}
Welcome, welcome, welcome to the myserious, magical world of "The Mystic Women of Salem" project.I am a Photography Major at Salem State University, completing my minor in Women's Psychology this semester.
In summer 2010, I was working in the photography department at the University and my supervisor Kim (a fine art photographer) inspired me in many, many ways. One of which being this project. I ran the idea by my son, William who has been in the publishing field for the last ten years in New York City. Ultimately we decided to collaborate and bring "The Mystic Women of Salem" to life. Since a project like this has never been done in Salem (which to this day still shocks me) I began to feel the "fuel" building around the project. Shortly thereafter the project was launched and believe me when I tell you..."she" hit the ground running! William and I developed a criteria, schedule, and a summary of the project.
Scheduling is critical as physical impairments dominate every aspect of my life. I have 3 1/2 pounds of steel in my spine and am declared disabled by physicians and the government. So, even going to school is MAJOR for me. My appearance is very deceiving (plus, I work really hard to hide my disability) which makes me feel it necesssary to inform you all so you will understand what's happening. At times, it is apparent during shoots and when I walk.
Soon after, interviewing for potential "Mystic" subjects began. To date I have interviewed almost 50 women and will continue to do so. Scheduling shoots and notification of the first round of selected mystic women began in November 2010. The ultimate goal is to interview 40 to 60 women, there will be 21portraits in the book. The criteria is very strict and must be met in order to be a potential "Mystic Woman." So far, the women I have interviewed have been extraordinary and fascinating (I could write a book about the interviewing process alone).
This blog will contain behind the scenes photographs and will document the highlights of shoots and stories of the magical, mystical, as well as humorous events that will undoubtedly occur over the course of this project. I, along with a genius lighting designer have already designed the preliminary elements necessary to do a theater production (complete with original lighting, sound, vocals, and special effects) for the launching of "The Mystical Women of Salem". Wow...this project just keeps gathering momentum and steam! She (MWS) has a life of her own and powers so strong and evident, that it continues to shock me. Since conception I have come to learn that the Team and I are mere vehicles being used to bring life to this project. Her agenda is still unclear, however, I am sure her intentions will become "glaring" as time goes on. So visit often, events are continuous and MWS is constantly changing, so visit often and by all means follow your favorite Mystic Woman by becoming a follower of the blog! R:}
Project Manager-William J. Fox
When my mom first told me about "The Mystic Women of Salem" project I could not help but feel she was really on to a great idea. Salem is truly unique, beautiful, and of course, mystical. The history, architecture, and people are simply fascinating. I greatly enjoy spending time there whenever I can (I live in the New York metro area) and my favorite thing to do is make a pit-stop at Jerry's (Witch City Consignment Store) and roam the aisles. Many a treasure has been found there. :)
Mother asked for my help with "MWS" and I jumped at the opportunity. She asked for my opinions and thoughts on prospective Ladies for the book, story editing, publishing guidance, and naturally, I obliged.
Mother and I both have been completely bowled over by the wise women that Salem has attracted! While reading preliminary bios of the Ladies, I found myself intrigued and wanting to know more about them. I can't *wait* to delve deeper and get to know them on a more personal basis. And this is just the beginning! Who knows what great women are yet to be discovered.
Until next time,
William
PR Model - Dawn Dorgan
I am so very honored and excited to be a team member for the MWS Project.
Growing up in the vicinity of Salem, I was well aware of the history of the City. I learned about the importance of the seaport in Salem's infancy, and the account of Colonel Leslie's Retreat at the North Bridge. I remember "The House of the Seven Gables" as required reading in school. And, of course, I learned of the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. These events and countless others have contributed to the personality that defines Salem. But, something else deserves recognition, something not included in the history books. I believe that Rebecca's vision for her book, "The Mystic Women of Salem", will help to fill that void.
Among other things, Salem is currently well known for it's mystical atmosphere, eclectic groups of people, and powerful women (men, of course, too!). It gives me great pleasure to be a part of the MWS Team and to bring to your attention some of these amazing, empowered, wise women, and the magickal gifts they offer from within.
We are aware of much of the HIStory of Salem...let us now get a glimpse of HERstory!
Blessed Be,
Dawn
