Alexis Marie Chute's Blog, page 7

Artsy Mondays: Photographer Interview with Gerry Dotto

Artsy Mondays: Interview with Gerry Dotto, InFocus Photo 2020 Photographer

Artsy Mondays

Welcome! Thanks for joining me on Artsy Monday!

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Continuing with our interviews with photographers featured in InFocus Photo Exhibit & Awards, today we welcome…

Gerry Dotto

Photographer Interview

Gerry Dotto

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By Gerry Dotto

When did you know you wanted to be a photographer?

I had some basic photography classes at art college in the late 70’s, but didn’t work at it seriously until about 2005. Until then I was doing some work with Polaroid 600 photos. Once digital photography became more common, I got more invested in the process, and bought a better camera and tripod and became more proactive about going out and shooting. I’m mostly self taught, but I took some extension courses and workshops those really helped too.

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By Gerry Dotto

Who are the photographers and artists that have had the greatest influence on you and why?

The artists that first inspired me were M.C. Escher, Salvador Dali, and Canadian painter Alex Colville. Escher is still a big influence on my work; not always in an obvious way, but elements of his work like pattern, illusion, misperception are elements I try to work in to a lot of my own artwork.

Barbara Kruger and Raymond Pettibon are two of my favourite artists – dynamic use of text and messaging and strong graphic look of the images. I really like the work of Calgary artist Chris Cran, I think we have very similar sensibilities on how we approach our work.

British graffiti artist Banksey has amazing ideas on how to insert his work and opinions in the public in some very unsuspecting ways. That’s inspiring me on how I direct my work to evolve. I also like that he stands by his principles, doesn’t sell out to the ‘establishment’.

My favourite photographers are Jeff Wall, Fred Herzog, Edward Burtynsky and Weegee. More artists with similar sensibilities.

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A page from the artist book, ‘Golden Thread’. – mixed media collage

What is the inspiration behind your photographs?

I’m primarily a street photographer, so I’m considering everything in my environment and I’m just very aware of things or situations that are not quite right… Those are things that qualify to be photographed. And when I see something and I think ‘well that’s something you don’t see everyday’ then that qualifies to be photographed too. These are normally familiar things or situations that we encounter everyday, so they go unacknowledged. I try to take a different point of view, find a different way to show their inherent beauty.

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A page from the artist book, ‘Golden Thread’. – mixed media collage

What was the most unique person or place you’ve photographed?

The one location I was surprised to find that had really captured my interest was an underground parking lot for a large apartment building. I shot my photo series ‘Two Wheelers’ at this location. The tenants hang their bikes on hooks on the wall in their parking stalls, and the first time I drove through the lot, it looked like all these bikes were floating in space. Once I started shooting, different details revealed themselves, elements like the texture in the cement walls, mud and puddles on the ground, fluorescent lighting and how the heavy yellow stripes framed and defined each tenant’s stall.

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A page from the artist book, ‘Golden Thread’. – mixed media collage

What advice do you have for aspiring photographers?

Take a lot of photos – keep an open mind – look for beauty in everyday things and situations.

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By Gerry Dotto

If you could have any superpower, which would you choose?

I’m not interested in super powers. With great power comes great responsibility, and I don’t have time for that.

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photograph, Yield sign and Yeild sign, suburban, truck, glowing light, soft focus hard focus, magic hour

Where is your favorite travel destination?

My favourite trips were to Melbourne, Australia; Havana, Cuba; and most recently to New York. We went for the first time last September. One week is not enough – a little surprised at how many tourists there were.

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By Gerry Dotto

When you’re not photographing, what are your favorite hobbies?

I collect record albums and CDs and make my own song compilations on CD (yes – old tech…)

What do you most enjoy about being a part of InFocus Photo?

It’s just a great opportunity to show your photos in an exhibition where the quality of the photography is always very high. I’ve been involved in a few InFocus shows and it’s always great to meet and talk with the other photographers.

www.gerrydotto.com

All February & March!

You’re invited to visit InFocus Photo Exhibit 2020

“Graphic Glee”

By Alexis Marie Chute

Acrylic on canvas

48” x 68”

2019

$3390

“Graphic Glee”

By Alexis Marie Chute

Acrylic on canvas

48” x 68”

2019

$3390

Call for Submissions

At the Multicultural Heritage Centre

Curation Info



“OUTSIDE-THE-FRAME”

Outside-The-Frame – Art Application Form

Exhibit description:

An exhibition without right angles. “Outside-the-Frame” shows circular, triangular, and other shapes of 2-D and 3-D art. The artists in this exhibit literally think outside the box to create work that titillates our imaginations with their unconventionally created and presented art.

Important Dates:

Apply by Monday, March 16, 2020.

Acceptance confirmation by Monday, March 30, 2020.

Deliver artwork on Saturday, April 18, 2020.

Exhibition dates: Wednesday, April 22 to Wednesday, June 10, 2020.

Opening reception on Saturday, April 25, from 1:00 to 3:00 pm.

Pick-up artwork on Saturday, June 13, 2020.

Full submission details. Click here.

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Stay tuned for all my “calls for submissions” for artwork. 

Subscribe to my e-newsletter to have these opportunities sent right to you.

Click here to subscribe. Enter your name and email address.

Photo via Trip Advisor

Call for Submissions

At the Multicultural Heritage Centre

Curation Info



“VIDEO ART: MODERN ARTMAKING IN MOVING IMAGES”

NOTE: Call open to video art to be shown in the gallery in the exhibition, AND short to medium length films to be screened on an evening during the exhibit.

Video Art – Art Application Form

Exhibit description:

Art of the moving image, the manipulated video file, the creation of a film-based art piece, and artistic presentations through video. This exhibition will challenge our perceptions on what constitutes art, how we view and consume media, and how we can engage with film in whole new ways.

Important Dates:

Apply by Monday, June 8, 2020.

Acceptance confirmation by  Monday, June 22, 2020.

Deliver artwork on Saturday, July 18, 2020.

Exhibition dates: July 22 to September 9

Opening reception on Thursday, July 23, at 6:00 to 8:00 pm.

Pick-up artwork on Saturday, September 12, 2020.

Full submission details. Click here.

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Stay tuned for all my “calls for submissions” for artwork. 

Subscribe to my e-newsletter to have these opportunities sent right to you.

Click here to subscribe. Enter your name and email address.

Thanks for joining me on Artsy Monday!

Have a great week!
   –   Alexis Marie Chute

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The post Artsy Mondays: Photographer Interview with Gerry Dotto appeared first on Alexis Marie Chute.

Time to Celebrate & Time to Grow

Happy Birthday Expecting Sunshine!
What’s in this post:

Wednesday, April 18 was Expecting Sunshine memoir‘s birthday! The book was released on the same date one year ago, in 2017. This anniversary was a fun opportunity to celebrate all the amazing milestones of the previous year. Read on to see the accomplishments of Expecting Sunshine memoir – and documentary! Plus, I’ve got news about the fate of Expecting Sunshine online… keep reading to learn more.

Here are some of my reflections on the first year after Expecting Sunshine’s release: https://www.wantedchosenplanned.com/five-lessons-expecting-sunshine/

Watch the birthday party for the book:


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Celebrating Expecting Sunshine memoir’s first birthday!

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The Expecting Sunshine cake all aglow!

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We had a fire!! If you have read Expecting Sunshine, you will know that Alexis Marie Chute has a tenancy to light things on fire. Well, she did it again!

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Here’s a close-up of the balloon casualty from the Expecting Sunshine birthday cake fire of 2018!

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Smiles remain after the cake fire! Happy birthday Expecting Sunshine!!

Expecting Sunshine BOOK AWARDS

First Place, Reader Views Literary Awards, Parenting/Family/Relationships category
Silver, Benjamin Franklin Awards, Autobiography & Memoir category
Silver, Benjamin Franklin Awards, Best New Voice: Nonfiction
Finalist, da Vinci Eye Award, Eric Hoffer Book Award
Kirkus Reviews’ BEST BOOKS OF 2017, Best Indie Books of 2017
Top 10, IndieReader’s Best Reviewed (Non-Fiction) Books of 2017
1st Place, Royal Dragonfly Book Awards, Expecting Sunshine, Women’s Interest category
2-time Finalist, Best Book Awards, “Best New Non-Fiction” and “Women’s Interest” categories
Winner, IndieReader Discovery Awards, Women’s Issues Category
Winner, Next Generation Indie Book Awards, Best Book Cover Non-Fiction
Finalist, Next Generation Indie Book Awards, Parenting/Family Category
Canada Book Award Winner

Thank you to all the readers and decision makers of the above awards. I am immensely grateful that you have deemed Expecting Sunshine worthy to join the other distinguished books in the history of your awards.

Expecting Sunshine BOOK TOUR

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
New York City, New York, United States
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Boston, Massachusetts, United States
Orlando, Florida, United States
Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Brooklyn, New York, United States
Tauranga, New Zealand
Auckland, New Zealand

The Expecting Sunshine book tour lives on!! I am constantly traveling the world, sharing the book and documentary. If you would like me to visit your city, please fill out the email form on “My City” page (click here) . I’ll get back to you and we can start planning!

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The State of the Expecting Sunshine Documentary

I have people ask me all the time: When can we watch the documentary? And where will it be available?

Unfortunately, I don’t have a quick answer for this. The process of putting out a film is much longer than I expected on the outset, however it is a slow exciting build!

Right now, Expecting Sunshine Documentary is being screened at film festivals and conferences around the world. This is step 1. Film festivals will not screen a film if it has been publicly viewed before in their area.
We are working on distribution for the next step in the documentary release. I will continue to keep everyone updated as this process chugs along!
We will be offering the documentary for purchase and as an educational tool for hospitals, support programs, and beyond. The goal is to get the film seen by as many people as possible, to help comfort the bereaved and educate friends, family, and professionals on how to care for and support those who have lost a child.


Expecting Sunshine Documentary FILM FESTIVAL SCREENINGS – so far!

Central Alberta Film Festival, Red Deer, Alberta, CAN
Arizona International Film Festival, Tucson, AZ, USA
PLIDA International Perinatal Bereavement Conference, St. Louis, MO, USA
International Conference on Stillbirth, SIDS and Infant Survival, Glasgow, UK
Platform Film Festival, Brooklyn, New York, USA


Expecting Sunshine Documentary FILM AWARDS

Audience Choice Best Film 2018, Central Alberta Film Festival
Shortlisted for Best Documentary Feature, Central Alberta Film Festival
Semi-Finalist, International New York Film Festival
Semi-Finalist, Hollywood International Independent Documentary Awards
Finalist, US Hollywood International Golden Film Award
Finalist, International Women’s Film Festival


This marks exciting progress for both the book and the film! Thank you so much for being a part of this journey! And thank you sincerely for all those that contributed and donated to help produce the documentary film!


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Change is in the air! The fate of ExpectingSunshine.com!

Maybe some of you have noticed that I have not posted on ExpectingSunshine.com regularly. Good observation! This fact does not reflect how much I care about you, my readers, or the book, film and topic of this site. I care about you and all these things immensely. At the same time, I have found myself spread too thin online. For the last few years I have endeavored to blog on four sites: Alexis Marie Writes, Art, Expecting Sunshine, and Wanted Chosen Planned. In the heat of the book tour and film screenings, not to mention raising three young kiddos, I have discovered that this is TOO MUCH!

I have decided to cut myself some slack and consolidate. What this means:

This is my last post on ExpectingSunshine.com
I am moving all of the content (info and blog posts) from my Art, Writing, and Expecting Sunshine sites to www.AlexisMarieChute.com
From now on, I will post blog updates on www.AlexisMarieChute.com about creative living, healing, joy, art, photography, writing, books, and my event tour. It will be a one stop shop. And with that I breathe a sigh of relief!
I will move over all the blog subscribers from these different sites to www.AlexisMarieChtue.com – so be aware of this. I want to let you know now so there is no confusion moving forward. I do hope that you will continue to stay subscribed to the blog, as I love communicating with you!
Once this has all happened – and it’s going to happen ASAP – I will do my best to send out one AWESOME blog post per week. It will have an encouraging thought, will share highlights form my video series on YouTube, and will keep you up-to-date on all the awesome happenings I’ve got going on.
THANK YOU for subscribing to my blog. THANK YOU for being a part of my community. I value you and appreciate you immensely!

Thanks for reading! I look forward to seeing you over on my new blog! 
With gratitude,
–Alexis Marie Chute

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The post Time to Celebrate & Time to Grow appeared first on Expecting Sunshine.

Film Awards, Screenings & Book Updates!

September 2017 Update

This is a long overdue update! The last blog post was at the end of August with photos of the successful book launch at Mosaic Books in Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada. Since then, a lot has happened! It is a bit overwhelming trying to collect all the good news in one place without overwhelming you, the reader, and me, the writer! Here’s the awesome summary:

EXPECTING SUNSHINE DOCUMENTARY


It is with immense gratitude, humbled appreciation, and huge relief that I am proud to say that we reached and exceeded our crowdfunding goal to produce Expecting Sunshine!

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A huge THANK-YOU to all of our supporters! They have been thanked across social media platforms (twitter and facebook) and on the ES blog. They have been thanked on the homepage for Expecting Sunshine and IN THE FILM CREDITS as well!
There are not enough words to express how grateful my team and I are in all the love and support we have received.
Thank you, thank you, thank you!





Expecting Sunshine will be screened at PLATFORM FILM FESTIVAL in Brooklyn, New York, USA, on Saturday, September 30, 2017.

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Here is more about PLATFORM FILM FESTIVAL:

Platform Film Festival  will screen films with substance and narrative that enrich everyone’s lives who view them on a multitude of levels providing another platform for discourse. A vibrant program rooted in cultural diversity, innovation, independence and creativity, these are our principles and goals.

Our mission is to celebrate the masters of filmmaking and discover the next generation of innovative creatives. Platform is the connective tissue that bonds the wondrous union between art and film. PFF will present an uncensored view of the World through the most important and relevant artists and filmmakers creating 2D and 3D work without fear, monetary incentives or artificial borders. PFF is a creative forum where like minds can have a sense of community being celebrated by the publlc-at-large and their contemporaries. 

New York City is one of the greatest cities in the World because of its ethnic diversity. Countless cultural movements have emerged in the ‘Big Apple’. The Harlem Renaissance, modern dance, jazz, abstract expressionism, graffiti, Hip-Hop, Punk Rock, and the Beat Generation Poets were all rooted in the fabric of the city. For the past hundred years it has been the epicenter in the Western culture, a city that celebrates individuality nurturing creators and their brilliance in music, film, theater, dance and visual art. Artists have been drawn into the city by intellectual ferment, cultural opportunity and an intelligent and challenging audience. New York City is the mecca for 21st century high/low culture , which is why we decided to launch ‘Platform’ in the Greenpoint neighborhood of BROOKLYN New York City.

Panel Discussions: (WINNER Q&A after the scheduled screenings)

Judge: Terrence Sanders

Expecting Sunshine is a finalist in the HOLLYWOOD INTERNATIONAL INDEPENDENT DOCUMENTARY AWARDS – winners will be announced September 30, 2017.

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Here’s more about the HOLLYWOOD INTERNATIONAL INDEPENDENT DOCUMENTARY AWARDS:

An exclusive Documentary Monthly Film Festival with a Yearly Red Carpet Interviews, Live Screening and Award Ceremony at Raleigh Studios, Hollywood.

Out of all our monthly winners, every month ONE documentary will be selected as “Best Of the Month” and will be awarded HIIDA Trophy during our yearly festival award ceremony.

Winners from Dec 2016 to Dec 2017 will be invited to attend the Mega Red Carpet HIIDA Event which will be held on March 24, 2018.

All  winning filmmakers throughout the year will come under one roof to celebrate their wins!

EXPECTING SUNSHINE MEMOIR


October is PREGNANCY AND INFANT LOSS AWARENESS MONTH. Please join with me in raising awareness for this life-changing experience.

October is a time to…

Remember the children that have died.

Celebrate their lives and how they live on in our hearts.

Break down the taboos around this type of loss.

Give needed support to families.

Honor bereaved mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, and family.

At this very special time of year, Expecting Sunshine will have a butterfly takeover to help remember, celebrate and spark conversation.

To me, butterflies symbolize transformation and hope. Life after the loss of a child is a “new normal” and can feel pretty horrible before we are able to experience deep joy and hope again. It is almost October 14, one day before International Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. October 14 is special for my family and I because it was the day – seven years ago – that Zachary, my second born, entered and left this physical world. This is a heavy season for me, but also a time where I do reflect on the joy I have discovered on this journey – and the hope that I now feel.

Below are some graphics that will be shared this month – and watch out for more!

Please feel free to click on these graphics, save them, and share them! Also, share your own butterfly image as well! Use this hashtag on twitter and instagram, among other places:

#pregnancyandinfantloss

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UPCOMING SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS

I am honored to be the keynote speaker at the following events this October, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.

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Baby Steps Walk to Remember

Sunday, October 1, 2017
Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada
Festival Place
Doors open at 1pm
I will be selling copies of Expecting Sunshine: A Journey of Grief, Healing and Pregnancy After Loss
Visit the website babystepswalk.com

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The Pregnancy After Loss Journey Sessions

Friday, October 13, 2017
Roger Neilson House
399 Smyth Road
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Staff event – 2:00-4:00pm
Public event – 6:00-8:00pm
I will be speaking about loss and pregnancy after loss, the struggles and the triumphs
I will be selling copies of Expecting Sunshine: A Journey of Grief, Healing and Pregnancy After Loss
Visit the Roger Neilson House website



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The Butterfly Run

Saturday, October 14, 2017
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Brewer Park
Ceremonies begin at 9:30am
5km run will begin at 10am
Family fun run will begin at 10:45am
I will be selling copies of Expecting Sunshine: A Journey of Grief, Healing and Pregnancy After Loss
Visit the website butterflyrunottawa.ca

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Baby Steps Walk

Sunday, October 15, 2017
Brooklyn, New York, USA
McLaughlin Park
243 Jay Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
3pm sign-in
I will be teaching Healing Art for Mourning Parents at the Walk, including creative writing, painting and collage
I will be selling copies of Expecting Sunshine: A Journey of Grief, Healing and Pregnancy After Loss
Visit the Baby Walk website

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Thank you for reading this super-sized update!

With gratitude,

Alexis Marie Chute

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The post Film Awards, Screenings & Book Updates! appeared first on Expecting Sunshine.

Kelowna Launch & Final Fundraising Day

Sold Out Book Launch in Kelowna!

Just a few days ago the Expecting Sunshine memoir book tour took me to Mosaic Books in Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada! It was a wonderful event. There were so many smiling faces and excited readers. Plus, Expecting Sunshine SOLD OUT! Every copy of the book went to a new home.

Here are some photos from the book party:
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Kelowna book launch party for Expecting Sunshine memoir! Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada. Mosaic Books.

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Books still available!

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The book party was an event for all ages.

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Happy readers!

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Happy readers!

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Picking a piece of the painting.

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The one-of-a-kind painted bookmarks. These girlfriends found side-by-side pieces.

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Each piece of the cut up painting is numbered so readers can find where they fit. Signed by the artist, Alexis Marie Chute.

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One for yourself, two for friends.

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Author Alexis Marie Chute with the last book available at the launch party.

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This lovely lady purchased the last copy of Expecting Sunshine!

There has been a lot of excitement around the painting that I am giving away as bookmarks. For those reading this post who are lucky to have one of the limited pieces, here is the grid so you can remember where you fit.
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This is the grid of the painting. When you receive your bookmark at the event, look at the back. In the top left corner, you will see a number. That number corresponds to the numbers on this grid. It will let you know which piece of the painting belongs to you.
CLICK THIS IMAGE TO SEE A LARGER VERSION OF THE PAINTING GRID.
Painting copyright Alexis Marie Chute.

LAST DAY to Contribute to Expecting Sunshine Documentary!

I am so proud that my crew and I have reached our crowdfunding goal for Expecting Sunshine documentary! All the funds raised have gone toward the production and editing of the film. A HUGE THANK YOU to all our supporters!!

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There is ONE DAY LEFT on our Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign!

Any funds raised beyond our goal will go towards submissions to film festivals, developing educational information and marketing.

5 Reasons Expecting Sunshine Documentary Supporters ROCK:

They see the value of sharing meaningful stories
They back what they believe in
They are not apathetic to helping others
They show up at the right time
They make a real difference

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5 Reasons to Support Expecting Sunshine Documentary:

The film breaks the taboo around a very common type of loss
It will help the bereaved feel less alone
It educates about how to support parents after loss
It encourages healthy grief (a part of “The Healthy Grief Movement” )
We can remember and celebrate the children that made a huge impact on the world despite their short lives

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Thank you for reading!

With gratitude,

Alexis Marie Chute

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The post Kelowna Launch & Final Fundraising Day appeared first on Expecting Sunshine.

Kelowna Expecting Sunshine Book Party

The Book Tour Continues in Beautiful British Columbia

The Expecting Sunshine memoir book tour has been a wonderful time of connectivity. I feel immensely humbled to hear the stories of so many individuals and families, celebrating with them their loved ones that have passed and their resiliency in the face of grief.

It has also been fun – and BUSY! – to also wrap up the editing of Expecting Sunshine documentary during the book tour, but what a ride! Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey.

The next stop on the BOOK TOUR:
Kelowna, British Columbia

This book tour leg means a lot to me because my family is from BC. I love seeing them and – especially – having this opportunity to share with them something near and dear to my heart. I felt their support after my loss and yet I am sure they don’t know the full extent of what my husband, Aaron, and I went through in the days, months and years after saying goodbye to Zachary.

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Expecting Sunshine book tour in Kelowna, British Columbia!

Kelowna Book Party!
Saturday, August 19, 2017
Mosaic Books
411 Bernard Avenue, Kelowna downtown
2:00 – 4:00 pm
Everyone welcome – kids too!
Come chat with the author (ME!) and get your book signed!
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Click this invite to save and share! Thank you!

I hope you can join me this Saturday – or at another book launch event soon!

If you would like to host me in your city for a book launch in a place where I have not yet been, please email me: info@alexismariechute.com

Thank you for reading!

With gratitude,

Alexis Marie Chute

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Expecting Sunshine Indiegogo Crowdfunding

Indiegogo Crowdfunding Update

This is an update on the Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign for Expecting Sunshine Documentary, or the “FINAL PUSH“ as I am calling it. We have reached our crowdfunding goal of $5,000 to finish the editing of the film! Those words are so exciting for me to type! Reaching this goal and finishing the editing – which we have done – are huge milestones. This journey has been long, but we are inching closer and closer to the finish line.

While completing the film may seem like the obvious finish line, it’s not. The end goal for this documentary is to get it in front of as many eyes as possible. The only way to truly break the taboo around miscarriage, stillbirth, other forms of pregnancy loss, SIDS, other types of death in infants, and the loss of children of any age, is through:

visibility + exposure + public discussion + awareness + cultural shift

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While I am thrilled to finish the film, my crew and I are onto the next stage.
What this includes:


Submitting the documentary to film festivals


Securing a major broadcaster for the film


Developing teaching and educational tools utilizing the film


Securing inclusion on Netflix

We have reached our crowdfunding goal, but there is still more work to be done. We will continue to fundraise for the film until the Indiegogo campaign’s official last day on Wednesday, August 23, 2017. At that time, our Indiegogo page shifts to “in demand,” which means individuals and organizations can continue to contribute and show support but there are no crazy deadlines and such.

Supporters can also contribute to the film through our website.

All funds collected beyond the $5,000 will go towards the entry fees for the film festivals, marketing and publicity. 

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Here are our most recent Indiegogo supporters:
(in the order they were received)

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Thank you Brett Ziegler for donating $25!
Thank you Shelann Borrelli for donating $50!
Thank you Melissa Baker for donating $50!
Thank you Jennifer Hepton, in loving memory of Marlowe June Helpton ‘Loey,’ for donating $100!
Thank you Jeff Fafard for donating $25!

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To contribute to Expecting Sunshine’s documentary crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo, please click here.

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5 Reasons to Support Expecting Sunshine Doc :

The film breaks the taboo around a very common type of loss
It will help the bereaved feel less alone
It educates about how to support parents after loss
It encourages healthy grief (a part of “The Healthy Grief Movement” )
We can remember and celebrate the children that made a huge impact on the world despite their short lives

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Thank you for reading!

With gratitude,

Alexis Marie Chute

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The post Expecting Sunshine Indiegogo Crowdfunding appeared first on Expecting Sunshine.

Expecting Sunshine Book Tour in Orlando Florida

Orlando Leg of the Book Tour

The Expecting Sunshine book tour is marching on! The most recent stop was Orlando, Florida for the annual The Compassionate Friends National Conference.

About The Compassionate Friends:

The words of TCF’s Founder, Simon Stephens, resonate with those who have come to The Compassionate Friends hoping to find a purpose in a life that suddenly seems so empty. Whether your family has had a child die (at any age, from any cause) or you are trying to help those who have gone through this life altering experience, The Compassionate Friends exists to provide friendship, understanding, and hope to those going through the natural grieving process.

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About the conference:

The 40th National Conference of The Compassionate Friends took place in Orlando, Florida on July 28-30, 2017. “Rays of Sunshine, Oceans of Hope” was the theme.

Expecting Sunshine at The Compassionate Friends Conference:

It was the fourth annual TCF conference that my husband, Aaron, and I have attended and presented at. This year we delivered a session called “Blogging with Purpose.” I talked about the ways to create an powerful blog site and blog post. Aaron taught about the practical techy aspect of creating a blog and different platform options.

Also at the conference, Expecting Sunshine memoir was for sale in the bookstore and I did a book signing.

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Expecting Sunshine fun at The Compassionate Friends Conference.

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Author Alexis Marie Chute at the bookstore sign for The Compassionate Friends. The bookstore, like most sessions, is supported in loving memory of deceased children.

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Sharing the Expecting Sunshine story with eager readers!

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Author Alexis Marie Chute and husband Aaron Chute with the sign for their presentation, “Blogging with Purpose,” at The Compassionate Friends.

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Aaron Chute teaching about blogging at The Compassionate Friends National Conference.

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Author of Expecting Sunshine, Alexis Marie Chute, visiting with other authors at The Compassionate Friends National Conference.

Expecting Sunshine at Disney World and Universal Studios:

It wasn’t all work while in Orlando. The BOOK took a tour of Disney World and Universal Studios. It had never been before so I felt obliged to show the BOOK a good time. Here are some images from Expecting Sunshine‘s adventures:

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Expecting Sunshine BOOK visits the Magic Kingdom.

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BEFORE Splash Mountain.

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ON Splash Mountain.

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AFTER Splash Mountain!

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Expecting Sunshine at Universal Studios!

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A little every day magic in the world of Harry Potter.

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Bumblebee was moving, I promise! It was raining so he had to duck for cover.

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The colorful world of The Simpsons.

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Princess Fiona and author Alexis Marie Chute.

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E.T. and Expecting Sunshine are heading home!

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A T-Rex is eager to sink its teeth into a good book.

This reminds me of the time that Aaron and I took our two living children (before Luca was born) to Disneyland. I was inspired by a photo taken by bereaved mom Angie Smith, author of the memoir I will Carry You. Aaron and I bought an extra Mickey Mouse hat for Zachary and imagined he was with us, celebrating his short life while still honoring him as a part of our family.

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Remembering Zachary Chute with love. Disneyland with Zach’s siblings.

Next stop on the book tour: Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada!

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Thank you for reading!

With gratitude,

Alexis Marie Chute

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The post Expecting Sunshine Book Tour in Orlando Florida appeared first on Expecting Sunshine.

Expecting Sunshine Film & Book Thank You’s!

Right off the bat, I want to say a huge THANK YOU to all the recent supporters of Expecting Sunshine Documentary film! Making a film is hard work – and so is the crowdfunding. Thankfully, there are amazing people out there that make things happen. It is because of them, and all the children they represent, that Expecting Sunshine has come alive in the world!

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THANK YOU to our most recent supporters:
(in the order they were received)

Thank you Robert Duke for donating $500!
Thank you Rhonda and Bevan May for donating $1,000!
Thank you Patti Walker for donating $85!
Thank you Pregnancy After Loss Support for donating $85!

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Thank you Stephanie Haight, in loving memory of Cullen Gray Pryor, for donating $20!
Thank you Sandy Rysavy, in loving memory of Baby Rysavy, for donating $85!
Thank you Jennifer Rose Long for donating $25!
Thank you Kelly Kittel for donating $25!
Thank you Naomi Maharaj for donating $100!
Thank you Anonymous for donating $100!

 

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This is a painting that the Chute family painted together for the film.

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BOOK TOUR: Multicultural Heritage Centre

I had a wonderful night at the Multicultural Heritage Centre’s “Wine and Words” book club this past week! Sitting around with a group of people who love to read is amazing. I felt like I was with kindred spirits. I have to say, I feel inspired to join a book club myself!

One great thing about Expecting Sunshine is that it gets people talking. The book club meeting was a wonderful experience hearing about the things that matter to people and how they approach life, grief, and personal self-discovery. I am grateful for all the stories shared – and the wine poured!

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I am incredibly grateful for all the support Expecting Sunshine is receiving across the board – from the documentary fundraiser to the book tour to reviews and meaningful conversations. Thank you everyone! There are not enough words. Sending love!

Thank you for reading!

With gratitude,

Alexis Marie Chute

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The post Expecting Sunshine Film & Book Thank You’s! appeared first on Expecting Sunshine.

Expecting Sunshine is about Family

Expecting Sunshine Documentary Fundraising THANK YOU’s!

In Expecting Sunshine memoir I write about the loneliness of loss. In Expecting Sunshine documentary I hope to break down those walls of isolation. The goal is that no one will feel alone after the death of a child, whether that is through miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS, ectopic pregnancy or any other kind of pregnancy loss or the death of a newborn or of an older child.

This is a topic that matters. Children matter. Families matter. Mothers and fathers matter. Life matters – and this doesn’t change in the face of loss.

Here are our most recent supporters:
(in the order they were received)

Thank you to the Anonymous individual who donated $2,000!
Thank you to Rhonda and Bevan May for donating $250 in loving memory of their beloved son Mackenzie May!
Thank you to Virginia Smith for donating $85 in loving memory of Lucas Alexander Smith!
Thank you to Katelyn Owns for donating $85 in loving memory of Aveline Charlotte Owens!
Thank you to Olga Bernhardt for donating $110!

 

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Sincerest thanks and gratitude from Alexis Marie Chute and the entire crew of Expecting Sunshine.

To contribute to Expecting Sunshine’s documentary crowdfunding campaign on IndieGoGo, please click here.

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5 Reasons to Support Expecting Sunshine Doc:

The film breaks the taboo around a very common type of loss
The film will help the bereaved feel less alone
The film educates about how to support parents after loss
The film encourages healthy grief (a part of “The Healthy Grief Movement” )
The film can remember and celebrate the children that made a huge impact on the world despite their short lives

5 Reasons Expecting Sunshine Doc Supporters ROCK:

They see the value of sharing meaningful stories
They back what they believe in
They are not apathetic to helping others
They show up at the right time
They make a real difference

 

Expecting Sunshine documentary needs your help to finish the film. If you have been affected by and feel strongly for the topic of pregnancy and infant loss, grief and healing – please join us on the journey of making a cultural difference.

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ABOUT EXPECTING SUNSHINE FILM:

The film documents an actual pregnancy of Alexis Marie Chute as she grapples with the unique challenges of the loss of a baby and the “new normal” afterward. With poignant, educational narration and interesting interviews of over twenty bereaved men, women and experts, the documentary casts fresh light on a private and isolating experience.

The documentary contains scenes across multiple seasons, and numerous locations – from Alberta, Canada, to Sedona, Arizona. It features real-life medical appointments, artistic manifestations, thought-provoking interviews with counselors, nurses and bereaved families, and a comprehensive view from conception after loss through till the actual delivery. The film successfully avoids being a bland, sterile or sentimental expose. Instead, it is a collaborative and culturally relevant work of art.

 

As a filmmaker, Alexis Marie brings together her unique skill set as both a visual and literary communicator. She exposes the unseen emotional and psychological challenges of grief, curating them into an artistic presentation that will live on in the minds of viewers long after.

The film will be shown at film festivals around the world, at hospitals as a training tool, broadcast on TV, and available for the public.
The crew has launched the “FINAL PUSH” crowdfunding campaign hoping to raise $5000 Canadian ($3885.50 USD).
Please help us break the taboo around loss and promote healthy grief and healing. 

 

 

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Thank you for reading!

With gratitude,

Alexis Marie Chute

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The post Expecting Sunshine is about Family appeared first on Expecting Sunshine.

Last Two Days to be Included in Expecting Sunshine Credit Reel

Last Two Days to be Included in Expecting Sunshine Credit Reel!

Expecting Sunshine documentary needs your help to finish the film. If you have been affected by and feel strongly for the topic of pregnancy and infant loss, grief and healing – please join us on the journey of making a cultural difference.

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SPECIAL FINAL OFFERING
Thursday, July 13 & Friday, July 14 ONLY
Donate to the Expecting Sunshine Documentary crowdfunding campaign and have the baby you lost, your rainbow baby, supporter name or business name listed in the credit roll of the film.
We need your help. Please contribute and be a part of this meaningful project!

THANK YOU!!

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ABOUT EXPECTING SUNSHINE FILM:

The film documents an actual pregnancy of Alexis Marie Chute as she grapples with the unique challenges of the loss of a baby and the “new normal” afterward. With poignant, educational narration and interesting interviews of over twenty bereaved men, women and experts, the documentary casts fresh light on a private and isolating experience.

The documentary contains scenes across multiple seasons, and numerous locations – from Alberta, Canada, to Sedona, Arizona. It features real-life medical appointments, artistic manifestations, thought-provoking interviews with counselors, nurses and bereaved families, and a comprehensive view from conception after loss through till the actual delivery. The film successfully avoids being a bland, sterile or sentimental expose. Instead, it is a collaborative and culturally relevant work of art.

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As a filmmaker, Alexis Marie brings together her unique skill set as both a visual and literary communicator. She exposes the unseen emotional and psychological challenges of grief, curating them into an artistic presentation that will live on in the minds of viewers long after.

The film will be shown at film festivals around the world, at hospitals as a training tool, broadcast on TV, and available for the public.
The crew has launched the “FINAL PUSH” crowdfunding campaign hoping to raise $5000 Canadian ($3885.50 USD).
Please help us break the taboo around loss and promote healthy grief and healing. 

 

 

 

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