In the realm of photography, some artists possess a unique ability to transcend the boundaries of mere imagery and create timeless masterpieces that evoke emotions and stir memories.
Allen D. Crosby, a seasoned photographer and artist, has embarked on a journey that delves deep into the heart of coastal regions in the United States, capturing their allure and the lives of those who call these areas home.
His passion has culminated in a stunning coffee table book titled, "SeaScapes.” A book signing is set from 5 to 8pm on August 10 at Upper Bay Frame & Gallery, 2450 E. Main Street, League City, Texas. Signed copies will be available for $35.
The artist, who lives in The Woodlands, said the idea for "SeaScapes" sprouted from the fertile ground of his profound love for photography and the desire to leave a lasting legacy of his life's work.
“I have been a photographer for most of my adult life and have considered myself to be an artist. I had always felt that an artist’s work doesn’t really leave an impact until someone has seen and appreciated his work,” said Crosby, who has lived on Galveston Island and whose book also includes images from our picturesque island.
“I wanted to create something that I could leave behind for my friends, family, and others to see and appreciate - something that would cause them to remember me and my work, something that will last well beyond my lifetime.”
The 129-page coffee table collection includes 132 images and information on how to place an order for everything from prints to wall-size canvas wraps of the images found therein.
“It would be hard to single out a specific location and say one is better than the other. Each coastal area has its own unique beauty and attraction. The Gulf Coast has the flat, marshy, coastal beaches and islands teeming with waterfowl and sea life. There are few things that can rival the images of shrimp boats, beach houses, or the calm-paced lifestyle of the Gulf Coast,” said Crosby, who spent the last 20 years living along the Texas coast and, for a time, lived aboard a boat in Clear Lake.
“Growing up, it seems that our family spent a few weeks every summer in Corpus Christi Bay, fishing with my dad. In fact, the book is dedicated to my father and his passion for saltwater fishing.”
The desire to encapsulate the beauty of coastal regions became Crosby’s muse as he sought to create a visual history of his experiences from coast to coast.
From the laid-back luxury of Gulf Coast living to the captivating allure of the West Coast cliffs, the book showcases the unique essence of each region, highlighting the connections between coastal dwellers and the surrounding natural environment.
Crosby captures images that evoke the siren call of the sea, beckoning folks from all cultures and parts of the world.
“There are images of romantic couples walking along the beach, swimmers enjoying the surf, and even one image that shows a group of Middle Eastern women swimming in the surf while still wearing their Islamic burkas.”
There is also an examination of how humans have gained the ability, from ancient times until now, to harness the power of the ocean for travel and transportation of goods, he said.
“Coastal areas tend to evoke tranquility and a calming effect. I think it’s because of the calming effect brought about by an immense body of water,” he said.
“Unlike a lake or pond, the oceans are mysterious but strong. They remind us that we were created by something of such immense power and strength, that we are certainly subject to his will and care.”
Crafting "SeaScapes" proved to be both a labor of love and a challenging process.
“For me, it’s kind of like the old hatbox full of photos my mother kept in her closet. Every now and then I would drag it out and look through all the images, asking my mother who the people were in the faded black and white photos,” he said.
“This book is like taking my box of photos and putting them together in a collection for anyone to appreciate.”
Choosing the images to include out of the thousands he’s assembled was a Herculean task.
“That wasn’t an easy process. It’s like asking a parent which one of their children is their favorite. I knew that only a finite number of the images would be used and that many might be left out, even though I really liked them all.”
“In fact, in the introduction to the book I share that for every image in the book there are literally 100 or more images that didn’t make the cut,” added Crosby.
There are other coffee table books in the works. “That’s how I came up with the idea of making this into a series of books, so that I could divide my work into various genres and include more of my favorite images. So, there will be more books to come. Right now, I’m working on the next book. I’m thinking maybe a total of five books will be produced.”
Upcoming subjects showcase Spanish Missions of Texas and the vibrant Texas Cowboy Culture, an ode to his experiences growing up in the heart of ranching country.
“The Spanish Mission idea came from a short period of time when I lived in San Antonio and spent a lot of time on the mission trail,” said Crosby who spent 10 years living in Spain as an ex-pat.
“When people think of Spanish Missions in Texas, they think of the Alamo, however, there are six missions in the San Antonio area, most of which are much larger than the Alamo. In addition, there were well over 100 missions established by the Spanish in Texas. This is a gorgeous part of European architecture and culture that was transported to this country.”
The book depicting the life of modern-day cowboys is also a subject close to his heart.
“I spent a good part of my youth in a very small town in northwest Texas, right in the middle of Texas ranching country. My older brother has lived his entire adult life on his working ranch near there. Believe it or not, ranching is still taking place in our state in much the same way it did back in the 1800s,” he said.
“Cowboys might have cell phones, but they still brand their cattle, have rodeos, and ride horses as a part of their work. I want to capture that heritage before it disappears.”
"SeaScapes" goes beyond capturing breathtaking landscapes; it celebrates the cultural diversity and traditions of the coastal communities featured within its pages. His lens beautifully depicts the distinct nuances of life in various coastal regions.
Crosby’s passion for storytelling shines through in his anecdotes and behind-the-scenes experiences. He narrates how he stumbled upon a clandestine beachside wedding in Southern California, where the bride's ingenious idea of custom T-shirts became the attire of choice.
Additionally, his spontaneous encounter with a hot air balloon festival provided a memorable impromptu photoshoot, making for some unforgettable images.
Crosby said with “SeaScapes" he aims to evoke memories and emotions within its viewers, believing that photographs are much more than just images; they are windows to cherished experiences and moments. Each viewer will bring his or her own set of memories and associations to the photographs, making the book a deeply personal journey for every reader, he said.
Crosby's "SeaScapes" is a testament to the power of photography and how it connects with the soul. Through his lens, he weaves a rich tapestry of coastal beauty and the lives intertwined with it, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who encounter his work.
What: “SeaScapes,” a coffee table-style collection of photographs by Allen D. Crosby.
Cost: $39.99 through Amazon.com; A book signing is 5-8 p.m. on August 10 at Upper Bay Frame & Gallery, 2450 E. Main St., League City, Texas. Signed copies will be available for $35.
Info: livingimagesphotographytx@gmail.com
Fast Fact: Allen Crosby is also the author of “The Romantic Allure of Living Abroad: The Truths Behind the Fantasy,” a guide for ex-pats who want to live abroad.