By Cade Martin
As a kid, I spent many a dinner at a table surrounded by friends of my parents, an eclectic cast of characters — sculptors, writers, painters, creatives. That thread of creative community has remained in our offices, our teams, and our collaborations. But that thread feels thinner in this moment.
So I asked, with the purpose of sharing, and of supporting and caring for this creative community in its current, uncertain reality. I asked what people are doing, how they are feeling, how they are sparking creativity. It feels important to share what we do, when we can’t do all our doing.
Reaching out first to some of the talented people I’ve had the good fortune to profile though the Capitol Communicator portrait series. It’s my version of a virtual dinner table of sorts. Grab a chair and listen in to my conversation with Jeff Campagna, Photo Editor at Smithsonian Magazine.
Jeff, what, if anything, are you doing differently?
Like most folks, I’m teleworking exclusively. It’s still strange being away from everyone, but I’m trying to improve my efficiency and keep a regular schedule the best I can. I miss seeing and talking to my co-workers in person, and I miss the energy of the office.
Are you staying creatively active?
Yes. I’m continuing work on features, and I’m on the lookout for pitches and new personal photography projects and new photographers. My wife is a pastry chef, so she’s been trying all sorts of new recipes during quarantine at home, so I’ve been making still life photographs of everything she makes. I’m also her primary taste tester!
How are you sparking yourself creatively?
I was one of the judges for a photo contest for the DC chapter of American Photographic Artists–a contest for social distancers, of course–which was cool. I’ve been playing more piano and guitar now that I’m spending more time at home. And I’ve been trying to meditate to help stay relaxed and centered, with my wife’s encouragement.
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