Telegraph Herald: This Light Shines Funded on Indiegogo

Originally posted on Jan 4, 2014 in the Telegraph Herald.

By Sandye Voight TH Staff Writer

This Light Shines on Indiegogo

A former Dubuquer who works as a freelance artist in New York City is organizing an online sale of real and digital candles to honor loved ones who died.

"This Light Shines" is an interactive digital art exhibition, thislightshines.com, organized by Luke Stoffel, a graduate of Hempstead High School. He was in Dubuque recently, visiting family members during the holidays.

Stoffel, who has a degree in graphic design from Iowa State University, has had several gallery shows in New York and also had several pieces in a Dubuque Voices from the Warehouse exhibition a few years ago.

The project is in honor of a friend who died a year and a half ago after contracting pneumonia. Ethan Adi Guidjaja, had been making candles to sell on etsy.com. Because he didn't have health insurance, he waited too long to get medical attention.

"I thought, 'I'm not the only person who suffers loss,'" Stoffel said. "The idea is to remember the person who passed on."

Stoffel obtained Guidjaja's candle-making supplies and decided to make commemorative candles in his studio.

His friend was a Buddhist; the project is inspired by the Buddhist belief in rebirth and reincarnation, symbolized by candle flames.

"To honor those we've loved and lost, we light candles at churches, on lakes and some send lanterns into the heavens," Stoffel wrote on the project's website."

The deadline for donating is Friday, Jan. 17. Candles will be mailed out in March. Each candle will come with a number. The purchaser can register the candle online on a map of the world and dedicate it to a loved one.

"The goal is 1,500 candles to light up the world," Stoffel said.

The project is being funded on Indiegogo: igg.me/at/thislightshines.

He is working with a computer technician in New York City to create a Tweet #shines4. The idea is that when you Tweet, a flame will blossom into a lotus flower online. The soy candles will be lotus-scented.

Update:

The project was completed funded in 2014 and candles were distributed to 8 countries. The website is now live at http://www.thislightshines.com

Discovering Washington, D.C. in 5 Stops

Washington DC, United States

Photography by Lucas Stoffel can be licensed on Shutterstock and Getty Images

The US Capitol Building by Luke Stoffel - Fine art prints available on Etsy.

Let me take you on a virtual journey through the heart of the United States, Washington, D.C. It's not just a political powerhouse; this city is brimming with stories, monumental landmarks, and whispers of the past. If you've got a day or two, or maybe even just a few hours, here are five stops you must make.

1. Discover Washington by Strolling Through The National Mall:

Imagine walking on a vast stretch with iconic structures beckoning you from every corner. The National Mall is that place. On your left, the towering Washington Monument pierces the sky, while further ahead, the stoic statue of Abraham Lincoln seems to nod in silent greeting. As you walk, the U.S. Capitol looms in the background, standing as an ever-watchful sentinel of democracy. And trust me, when you visit at night, these iconic landmarks take on an ethereal glow that's just magical.

2. Embarking on a Smithsonian Adventure:

Now, think of the Smithsonian Institution as this enormous treasure chest. But instead of gold and jewels, it's packed with knowledge and history. Step into the National Museum of American History and be transported back in time. From the glittering gowns of First Ladies to the tattered Star-Spangled Banner, every artifact has a tale to tell. Fancy a space escapade? The National Air and Space Museum's got you covered. And if you're in the mood for a deep, poignant experience, the National Museum of African American History and Culture awaits.

The National Mall by Luke Stoffel - Fine art prints available on Etsy.

3. Georgetown: A Walk Down Cobbled Lanes:

Sometimes, the soul of a city is hidden in its quieter corners. Georgetown, with its cobbled streets and historic homes, is one such gem. Here, you can relish a cuppa in quaint cafes, browse through boutiques, and if the season's right, witness the Potomac River adorned with cherry blossoms.

4. Delving into Spy Games at the International Spy Museum:

Alright, who hasn't dreamt of being a super-sleuth or an undercover agent? The International Spy Museum is your ticket to the covert world of espionage. Peek into the gadgets, hear tales of legendary spies, and test your spy skills. It's thrilling and oh-so-mysterious!

5. Reflecting at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum:

Discover Washington DC in our last stop is a deeply emotional one. This museum stands as a somber reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust. It's a place of reflection, learning, and understanding. As you navigate the exhibits, it’s a silent pledge that history shouldn’t repeat itself.

There you have it. Washington, D.C., is a tapestry of history, emotions, adventures, and stories. And trust me, once you start exploring, you'll realize that every corner, every street, and every monument has a tale, just waiting to be heard. So, ready for your D.C. adventure?

A Chicago Sojourn: Unveiling Treasures of The Windy City

Chicago, United States

Photography by Lucas Stoffel can be licensed on Shutterstock and Getty Images

The Chicago Theatre by Luke Stoffel - Fine art prints available on Etsy.

Ah, Chicago! A city where the gusty winds carry tales of history, architecture, and vibrant life through its lively streets. Let’s meander together through this splendid city and explore some spots that you simply can't miss.

Navy Pier: A Festival of Fun and Frolic

Imagine standing on a vast pier, with the fresh breeze of Lake Michigan caressing your face while you’re surrounded by a carnival of joyous moments. Welcome to Navy Pier, a place where fun knows no boundaries! Here, you can hop on the iconic Centennial Wheel, providing a stunning, panoramic view of the city skyline. Smell the buttery popcorn and cotton candy? It’s the spirit of joy, wrapped in the aroma of delightful treats. With an array of eateries, boat tours, and a plethora of entertainment options, every moment here is a cherished memory in the making.

Navy Pier by Luke Stoffel - Fine art prints available on Etsy.

The Art Institute of Chicago

Step through the lion-guarded doors of the Art Institute of Chicago, and you’re in for a timeless voyage through the realms of artistic endeavors. Picture yourself wandering through corridors adorned with works that span centuries and cultures. From the stoic American Gothic to the vibrant works of Van Gogh, every stroke tells a story, transporting you to places and eras far and wide. And as you walk through the contemporary art section, it’s like a dialogue between the past and the present, tradition and rebellion, all coalescing into a symphony of colors, shapes, and expressions.

The Bean at Millennium Park by Luke Stoffel - Fine art prints available on Etsy.

Millennium Park: An Oasis Amidst the Urban Hustle

Nestled in the heart of downtown Chicago, Millennium Park emerges as a sanctuary where nature and artistry blend seamlessly. Can you see ‘The Bean’ (Cloud Gate) reflecting the city’s skyline and the azure sky, contorting them into whimsical shapes? It’s a favorite spot for a playful selfie or a thoughtful moment, reflecting not just the city, but also your own experiences in its polished surface. Stroll further and the Jay Pritzker Pavilion might be hosting a lively concert, where melodies dance through the open space, inviting you to sway along. In every corner of the park, creativity blossoms, be it through sculptures, gardens, or interactive artworks.

Chicago Skylines by Luke Stoffel - Fine art prints available on Etsy.

Chicago, with its towering skyscrapers and ever-vibrant streets, is a place where every visit unveils new layers, stories, and experiences. From the harmonious chaos of Navy Pier to the silent dialogues within the Art Institute, and amidst the artistic echoes of Millennium Park, the city encompasses a universe of experiences, waiting to be unwrapped and explored by wanderers like you. So, shall we take a walk through the mesmerizing streets of Chicago together?