The idea of “giving back” through photography is something that I never expected to be part of my photographs from my youth and today. The idea started when I was asked to collaborate with Punk Rock and Paintbrushes with a signed photograph of Jerry Only for Rock Against Racism a couple of years ago at Aftershock. It was an honor and a privilege to be able to raise funds for a charity like Rock Against Racism. But I felt like there was more I could do. Using one of the shots signed by the musician and having funds go to a charity that they felt strongly about made the most sense to me. It allowed me to interact with the musicians and find out what is meaningful to them. My second piece was a photograph of Doyle of the Misfits from the Goelta Valley Community Center on January 21st, 1983, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Catskill Animal Sanctuary in upper New York state. Doyle and his girlfriend, Alissa White-Gluz of Arch Enemy, are passionate about animal rescue and living a vegan lifestyle. Again, a perfect fit.

My latest photograph is of Mike Ness of Social Distortion from the Belasco Theater in Los Angeles on December 28th, 2022. A significant portion of the money raised through print sales is going directly to the family of Chad Wood. Chad was tragically killed in a car crash in March and left behind his partner, Leah, and their three children. The Ness family is very close to them, as is the Central Coast community where they live. I can’t imagine the pain and despair for the family. Chad was the breadwinner and devoted his life to being a father and a contributor to his community. Knowing that the money is going to help the Wood family as they try to rebuild their lives after this unimaginable tragedy is very meaningful to me.

Here are the words from the Ness family:

In March, our friend Chad Wood lost his life in a tragic car accident.  He is survived by his partner, Leah, and their three beautiful children: Marley, Eli, and Zeva.  The loss to those closest to him is, of course, most profound.  That being said, he was a huge presence in this community, and we are all grieving.  Chad was like a giant redwood-easy to see from afar, and one always felt the love, connection, and quiet comfort in his presence.  Like us, we know that he left a lasting impression on all who encountered him.  It’s not the same here without you, Chad.  Chad was a lover of life, family, music, basketball, and nature.  He and his family cherished the beauty and community they found on the central coast and became family.  Like many young families, these are financially rough times, and Chad was working multiple jobs to provide.

Our proceeds generated from the sale of these fine art photos will be lovingly donated to Chad’s family.

Your love and spirit will live on in the hearts of your friends and family here on the Central Coast.

Chad ♥️ Jah Rastafari! 🇪🇹

C. Ness and fam

If you are interested in purchasing this signed and limited edition print, please click here: