Meet Maureen Haldeman | Fine Art Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Maureen Haldeman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maureen, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I was born in The Netherlands and raised in Montreal, Canada, where my fascination with photography was inspired at an early age by my father's passion for capturing the
world through his lens. He had a keen eye for details and much of the way I approach
making images was instilled by his observation and interpretation of the world around
him.  I still have the original Agfa camera he used so many years ago; it now sits on a
shelf as a collector’s item. My interest in photography continued further when I moved to
the United States to work for an International Airline granting me the opportunity for
extensive global travel that fostered my appreciation and interest in recording the many
places and diverse cultures I was fortunate enough to experience.
After several years of living in New York and San Francisco, I eventually settled in Los
Angeles, California, and attended photography and fine art classes at UCLA taught by
among others, Robert Heineken, who had a profound influence on my understanding of
photography as art. It was during this time that I established MJH Photography with a
focus on portraiture that soon expanded to encompass personal projects and my
enduring love for nature, particularly the ocean and its environs.

Over the years my work has appeared in numerous publications, group and solo
exhibitions both locally and internationally and can be found in private collections
worldwide, as well as in esteemed institutions like The City of Malibu's public collection,
The Los Angeles Public Library Archives and Yale University's Beinecke Library.
I am a long-time resident of Malibu California, where I live with my husband and two
cats, all of whom, together with the ocean, continue to be my daily inspiration.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a visual artist I find my inspiration in the beauty of nature, particularly in the landscapes of the ocean, beaches, and the surrounding environment. What sets my
work apart from traditional landscape photographers is my approach to capturing these
scenes; rather than merely replicating what I see, I aim to convey the essence and
mood of each landscape through the interplay of light, color, and texture. My images are
not just visual representations of the landscape but expressions of the emotions and
atmosphere evoked by the natural world. I take pride in my ability to transcend the literal
and delve into the intangible aspects of my subjects. The journey to where I am today
has often encountered challenges, from technical hurdles to the constant pursuit of
creative growth. However, each obstacle has served as an opportunity for learning and
refinement. Through persistence, dedication, and a willingness to push beyond my
comfort zone, I've overcome these challenges and continued to evolve as an artist. My
inspiration comes from a deep connection to the world around me … and I hope to
inspire others to see the world as a place of beauty and wonder and a place that must
be cherished and protected.
In my latest series, Paysages Du Ciel, I shift my focus from the earth and seas upwards,
to the Malibu skies and the magnificent cloud formations seen year-round. The sky
holds a unique magic for me, capable of soothing the soul and rekindling the spirit, as it
connects our artificial surroundings to the transcendent beauty of nature and the
boundless expanse above us.
With these skyscapes I attempt to convey a sense of constancy intertwined with
perpetual change, reminding us of the profound therapeutic potential inherent in the
natural world, particularly in the vast blue yonder; they celebrate the sky's calming
influence, acknowledging its power to heal, inspire, and restore balance and harmony in
our hectic lives. Offering a soothing balm for the human spirit, the sky provides.
While the blue hues of the Paysages Du Ciel images are representative of serenity and
inspiration, they can also be seen as symbolic of heaven. Printing these photographs on
metal enhances that visual narrative and the luminous quality of the sky.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When welcoming a friend to Los Angeles, my list of possible things for them to experiences is endless … and I always recommend their visit include both the hustle of
LA city life and the laid-back charm of the beach communities. To begin with, a day
exploring the chic ambiance of Beverly Hills and West Hollywood gives a taste of the

quintessential Los Angeles pass time of the rich and famous, upscale shopping, fine
dining. And what better way to finish a fantasy day than with a celebrity concert
performance at the iconic Hollywood Bowl?
For a more cultural experience, a day devoted to LA's word class museums is a must.
The Getty, LACMA, and The Broad all showcase an impressive array of art spanning
various genres and eras. Downtown, a stroll through the vibrant Arts District, with visits
to galleries like the esteemed Houser & Wirth Gallery, offers a glimpse into the city's
thriving arts scene.  End the day with a delectable meal at Manuela Restaurant, nestled
within the gallery, for a true taste of LA's culinary excellence.
For a change of pace, a day spent basking in the sun and soaking up the local vibes of
Santa Monica or Venice Beach provides the perfect respite. Whether it's exploring the
famous Santa Monica Pier or savoring fresh seafood at historic spots like Chez Jay's,
these beachside communities offer a blend of relaxation and entertainment and the true
Southern California experience.
Venturing up the Pacific Coast Highway, a stop at the Getty Villa Museum in Pacific
Palisades is a must. Amidst re-created Roman architecture is housed one of the finest
collections of Greek and Roman antiquities in the world, not to mention the serene
setting and the beauty of the museum's gardens.
Absolutely, saving Malibu for last ensures that my friend experiences the epitome of Los
Angeles' natural beauty. Starting the day with a brisk hike in Solstice Canyon offers a
great way to connect with the landscape of the Santa Monica Mountains before heading
to the beach. Also, exploring Malibu's interesting history at the Adamson House and
enjoying the tranquil ambiance of the adjacent bird sanctuary at the Malibu Lagoon
offers a fascinating view of all Malibu has to offer.
At the end of the day a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores of Malibu's pristine
beaches allows for moments of reflection and contemplation. And what better way to
culminate the day, and the trip, than witnessing the breathtaking spectacle of the sun
sinking below the horizon from the patio at the Sunset Restaurant, with its panoramic
views overlooking Westward Beach and the Pacific Ocean – the perfect opportunity to
soak in the beauty of Malibu while creating lasting memories of Los Angeles.
4) Thank you for the opportunity to give a ‘shoutout’ to those who have played a role in
helping me along my artistic journey.
Foremost, I am deeply thankful for the support and invaluable guidance I received from
teachers and mentors along the way, starting with artist Robert Heineken, whose
profound influence early on in my journey shaped my understanding of photography as
an art form. I also extend a special thank you to the Los Angeles artistic community
including the gallerists and curators who have helped me along the way, but in particular
to my fellow artists, some of whom have become close friends; they understand the
highs and lows of the creative path like no one else and their friendship has been a
constant source of encouragement for which I am profoundly grateful.

In addition, I reserve the biggest thank you for my husband and daughter; their
steadfast faith in me has been a guiding light through many moments of self-doubt and
uncertainty; their loving encouragement and support have made me believe in myself.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Over the years my work has appeared in numerous publications, group and solo exhibitions both locally and internationally and can be found in private collections
worldwide, as well as in esteemed institutions like The City of Malibu's public collection,
The Los Angeles Public Library Archives and Yale University's Beinecke Library.
I am a long-time resident of Malibu California, where I live with my husband and two
cats, all of whom, together with the ocean, continue to be my daily inspiration.

Website: www.renegadestudios.net

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maureenhaldemanphoto

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maureenhaldemanphotography

Other: www.maureenhaldemanphotography.com