I have something exciting to share with you! As of Veteran’s Day my grandfather, Arsen Ohanian, and his photography are being celebrated at the new Heroes Hall at the Orange County Fairgrounds to commemorate the veterans of the Santa Ana Army Base. He was a military photographer stationed there and my family had a bunch of his photos that we decided to donate. And the timing was perfect. Incredibly, I'm told these are the only pictures they have that were taken at the Santa Ana base.  Good thing my aunt Judy thought of it. It’s so much more gratifying to see them up on those walls for all to enjoy than in a book in a closet. He was really talented!

I wish I had a chance to meet my grandfather. I know we would've been close. I’ve always heard such great stories and sense his spirit through his old camera gear displayed at home. This work is only from the beginning of his time in Southern California and early in his career. He went on to be a portrait photographer and father of three. I’m glad he’s front of mind again and I couldn’t be prouder to follow in his footsteps. 

Please excuse the iPhone photos. It's what I had with me. And if you'd like to see these gems in person, the exhibit runs through June. But, I'm pretty sure some of his images will stay up indefinitely.