After 13 years and 277 posts, my REEL AND ROCK blogsite will be re-branded as ON SECOND SIGHT as of my next post. Since 2013, most of my posts have focused on reviews and retrospective articles concerning rock music, documentaries, feature films and pop culture, and their impact on society at large.

After writing an average of 21 blog posts a year (as well as two books on documentary films) over that period I’ve decided to shift the focus to my second creative love: photography. I started both writing and shooting at the age of 16, when I got a 126-instamatic camera for Christmas and during that vacation wrote an assigned short story that got an A.

But now I’m 68 and writing long-form articles has become more of a chore than otherwise. Still, there will be my text alongside the pictures in this format, like in my ongoing “Placeology” series. Those draw on the concept of “psychogeography,” meaning the attainment of deep connections with man-made environments through improvised exploration. From faded manor estates and amusement parks, to overlooked statuary and vestigial storefronts, we are often close to some location rich in hidden histories and forgotten associations. An appreciation of our collective built heritage can lead to thoughtful historic preservation and the design of more livable cities through greater community awareness and involvement.

So anyway, that’s the mission statement. Thanks for being a follower of this long-running blog and look for the first ON SECOND SIGHT post soon! Regards, Rick Ouellette