Fall in Malibu

The Meaning Behind the Photo: Mulholland Highway and the Santa Monica Mountains

Mulholland Highway is more than just a scenic road; it’s a legendary stretch winding through the heart of the Santa Monica Mountains, representing the spirit and allure of Southern California. Known for its sweeping views, sharp curves, and rugged beauty, this iconic highway has long been a haven for adventurers, car enthusiasts, and artists alike. Stretching through landscapes that seem untouched by time, Mulholland offers a journey through history and natural wonder, where each turn unveils another perspective of the vast Santa Monica Mountains. The Santa Monica Mountains themselves are steeped in history, holding deep cultural significance. Originally inhabited by the Chumash people, these lands later became a backdrop for ranchers, pioneers, and Hollywood filmmakers, transforming over the years into the beloved trails, viewpoints, and canyons that Californians and visitors cherish today. This rugged expanse of mountains and valleys stands as a testament to California’s rich past and continues to shape its vibrant culture. For me, capturing Mulholland and the Santa Monica Mountains is a way of honoring this landscape’s role in the Southern Californian experience. Each photo reflects the freedom, beauty, and spirit of exploration that these mountains offer. Through this image, I hope you feel the timeless appeal of Mulholland—a place where history, adventure, and nature converge, leaving an indelible mark on all who pass through.

Fall in TO

The Meaning Behind the Photo: Old Oaks Cigars & Liquor Co.

"Old Oaks Cigars & Liquor Co.," established in 1996, has long been a Thousand Oaks landmark. Nestled on Thousand Oaks Blvd, this Armenian-owned shop has become a trusted neighborhood spot where people from all over the Conejo Valley gather to unwind, share stories, and connect over a cigar. For me, however, it holds a deeper, more personal meaning. While it’s not specifically an Armenian gathering spot, the shop’s Armenian ownership resonates with my own family’s journey in the area. My family was one of the key founders of the Conejo Valley/Ventura County Armenian Apostolic Church, building a foundation for our heritage in a place where the Armenian community is relatively small. Through family friends, we have a personal connection to the owners of Old Oaks Cigars, and, over the years, this shop has become a place that reminds me of the importance of roots and community, even when far from home. Through my photography, I hope to capture the essence of Old Oaks Cigars as a welcoming space where diverse lives and stories intersect. Each photo is a tribute to the spirit of connection that this shop fosters, and a nod to the unique ties that make Thousand Oaks feel like home.