Artist Statement

In German, "Spiegel" means "mirror". My images reflect me as an artist and photographer, they also reflects my personal identity. My photos reflect how I felt at the time they were taken.

Growing up, I always loved taking pictures and always had a dog. My father gave me my first camera at the age of 8 and I’ve been photographing my world ever since. My first dog was Pepper, a Poodle and Sheltie combo.

I graduated from San Diego State University with a Degree in Art. When I'm not traveling, taking photographs or painting, my "day job" was working as a Non-Profit Program Managers at a variety of organizations, such as environmental, humane societies and animal rescue groups. I photographed many dogs (and cats) for adoption promos.

I share my home with a 14 lb. Pomeranian, named Kharma "Fluffy Pants" Spiegel. He is the CEO (Canine Executive Officer) when my dog photography sessions.

Photographs speak to us in a variety of ways ... whether it's our pets, family memories ... or just having fun. Photographs not only document our lives, but tell a story and brings back memories. My favorite subjects are dogs (and all animals), the beach, people and traveling. To see what I'm up to check out my blog or follow me on Twitter http://twitter.com/rita520

I invite you to look through my portfolios and I hope you enjoy my images.

-- Rita

Professional Affiliations
* Sierra Club Photo Section
* Oceanside Museum of Art, Artist Alliance
* Off Track Gallery - Encinitas

Artist Exhibitions
* El Corazon Senior Center, Oceanside August. 2010
* Pacific Q Billards Room - Jan. 2010
* Oceanside Art Gallery, Nov. - Dec. 2009
* Art in the Alley by JC Pop Gallery Aug. 2009
* St. Tropez Restaurant, Encinitas, CA 2009
* San Diego County Fair: 1998, 2006-2009 (Honorable Mention and Special Sponsor Award)
* Supreme Bean Coffee House Exhibit – Solo Artist
* Santos Coffee House – Solo Artist

Magazines/Newspapers
* San Diego Pets
* La Jolla Light
* AAA Magazine
* Ranch & Coast
* North County Times
* City of La Mesa 2006 Calendar
* Fotomall Photographer’s Showcase

Newsletters
* Sierra Club Photo Section
* Helen Woodward Animal Center
* Solana Center for Environmental Innovation
* California Coastal Commission


Brochures:
* Friends of County Animal Shelters (FOCAS)
* Student Environmental Action and Leadership (SEAL)
* Rancho Coastal Humane Society