Letters from Lodi
An insightful and objective look at viticulture and winemaking from the Lodi
Appellation and the growers and vintners behind these crafts. Told from the
perspective of multi-award winning wine journalist, Randy Caparoso.
Eight years of ZinFest poster’s red haired muse
The first, contemplative appearance of ZinFest artist Vince McIndoe’s red haired muse, in 2007
Lodi ZinFest is celebrating its 10th year in 2014. The beautiful, mysterious "red headed girl" depicted in each year's ZinFest poster is making only her eighth appearance; but now, what would any ZinFest be without her?
The ZinFest posters are the brainchild of artist Vince McIndoe, who is currently living in Korea. If the artwork reminds you of works from the Belle Époque – the "Beautiful Age" in French and Belgian history just before World War I, marked by optimism and burst of artistic creativity – you are not mistaken. Says Mr. McIndoe, "When designing my posters, I am inspired by Belle Époque and by Lodi Lake, a beautiful backdrop for ZinFest. You could not design a better setting, and my red haired muse fits right in there."
Stuart Spencer, Lodi Winegrape Commission's Program Director, describes how the ZinFest posters come about each year: "We usually begin the process in September discussing the coming year's festival. Vince will send over several sketches for us to take a look at, and after a bit of back and forth, we settle on a general concept.
The 2008 ZinFest lady — sensuous wine, striking beauty…
“Typically, we don't like to over-manage the process, but rely on his artistic talent to create a poster that captures the spirit of the event. We generally look for an iconic element (the red-haired woman) to connect with people on an emotional level. And year-in and year-out Vince has delivered!"
Adds Mr. McIndoe, "My red haired lady was a bit of a gamble at first, but she has become well loved by everyone who has seen our designs. Having attended Zinfest, I have a connection to the people and the splendid beauty of the lake area. I am inspired by the Lodi winemakers' wines, and their pride in making it.
"In my posters I have always tried to capture the spirit and serenity of the area and people – the subtle but everlasting beauty of Lodi rather than glamour. What Lodi has to offer is a lot more than I can express on the canvas."
Six more years of the beautiful ZinFest lady in Lodi Lake:
2009 — a burst of glory and gaiety…
2010 — the vinous flame…
2011 — red all over…
2012 — de-wine inspiration…
2013 – the Belle Epoque of the ball…
2014 — maiden in the shade…