Flying Goat Cellars Features Fran Collin’s “Portraits in the Wine Ghetto”

Fran Collin is a Santa Barbara-based photographer who has a penchant for food photography, especially chefs, restaurateurs and now winemakers. His portfolio includes such luminaries as chefs Paul Bocuse, Michel Richard, Danile Boulod, Alain Ducase, Alice Waters and Julia Child. His other favorite photographic themes include portraits and beauty. Over a series of photo shoots in the Ghetto last spring, Collin captured the portraits of Richard Longoria, Norm Yost, Kathy Joseph, Steve Clifton and others. Some of his photos were featured in Edible Santa Barbara this summer. Flying Goat has been hosting First Thursday “Wine & Culture in the Ghetto” since May.

Previous events include an art opening with plein air painter Jon Arnold, a poetry reading with James Kotsybar and Ella Gale, a book signing with nationally acclaimed speaker and coach Bill Poett, live music by Jazz Divine Duo and handcrafted oils by La Nogalera, Rancho Olivos and Clos Pepe. There is no charge for First Thursday events.

Flying Goat Cellars co-owners Norm Yost and Kate Griffith host these events to introduce locals to the wine community. “We’re especially pleased to feature Fran’s portraits in our unique cultural setting since he was able to capture the creative spirit of it so well through his photography,” Griffith remarked. She also noted, “His playful approach to ‘the Ghetto’ is amusing and depicts its bohemian essence.”

As “the Ghetto” continues to garner more media attention, from Edible Santa Barbara, The Wall Street Journal, BBC and others, Flying Goat Cellars and other wineries seek to enhance its reputation with special events, directional signage and a website.

Flying Goat Cellars www.FlyingGoatCellars.com has been handcrafting vineyard designated Pinot Noir since 2000 and sparkling wine since 2005. For more information contact Kate Griffith, Chief Philosopher/Owner, at marketing@flyinggoatcellars.com or 805-737-GOAT.