Greetings!

This issue is dedicated to Griffin Maria. I’ve done dedicated issues in the past, and it’s time to sprinkle in some special issues paying homage to a single beauty from time to time. I’m also working on a black-and-white and a bodyscape issue for the summer.

Griffin and I have had fifteen shoots together…so far. Our first one was in 2019 just before the pandemic. We’ve done a good number of our shoots at locations. From a horse ranch (thank you Barry), to a 60’s house, to the Mesa home I have done so many shoots at. (I miss that location!) She’s always up for anything.

Her story starts early, with her love of Playboy and, one day, her gracing the pages as wonderfully as the ladies have for so long. She has a generous collection of mint issues of Playboy, and several have been incorporated as inspiration for some of our art.

She has certainly grown into her dreams and become a beauty that would be a delight to anyone browsing any issue of Playboy.

For my part, I can’t help but think back to when I was probably14 and was in awe when I saw my first Playboy. Even then I saw the art in the photography, the poses, and the gentle curves. Of course I had no idea how my life would unfold. And even the imagination that teen had no idea he would have the opportunity to create art of that type and style. Yet, with Griffin’s help, I’m doing just that.

I’ve been able to spend a lot of time with her, not just shooting, but D&D-style gaming with Laughing Moon. The part of her that stands out that doesn’t show up in photos is that you never know what will come out of her mouth next. Often random and hilarious.

I asked her if she’d like to add to this issue, and she wrote, “Being one of Dave Kelley’s Muses has been the greatest honor of my professional modeling career, yes, but also of my life, too. There are few things I love in this world as much as I love making Dave laugh while we create art together.”

I’ve said before that the friends I’ve made on my photographic art journey have been the most satisfying and unexpected surprise over the years. She’s certainly one I cherish. And yes, she has me laughing often!

And as always, feel free to comment, ask questions, or even make suggestions. I’m at ai7r@mac.com

OH, AND ONE MORE THING! If you are an Elley fan, go follow her new YouTube channel and show her some love. Elley Ringo Uncharted

Buy me an ice cream?