Image City Photography Gallery
Newsletter
Issue: # 58August 17, 2012

We publish our brief Newsletter during each of our exhibits to pass along information and reviews of the exhibit, photographic tips, selected images and news of other participation opportunities at Image City. We thank you for your interest and we look forward to another great year of fine photographs and events. We hope to see you at each of our 13 shows in 2012.

In This Issue
Portfolio Showcase 2012
Peter's Picks from the Exhibit
Fall Courses and Workshops at Image City
Call for Submissins: Cell Phone Photography
Gary's Photo Tip
Image City Critiques -- Wednesday, September 5 at 7pm
Some Changes at Image City
Calendar of Upcoming Events at Image City

Portfolio Showcase 2012

Current Show Runs Through Sunday, September 2  

 

Portfolio showcase CardImage City Photography Gallery's current exhibit is our annual Portfolio Showcase 2012. Following our call for submissions for the exhibit we received more than 80 exceptional portfolios from local and national artists. Recall that the portfolios are made up of eight photographs and that we juried eight portfolios into the exhibit. The winning portfolios were by Don DeLong, JFK/AJVK, Susan C. Larkin, Kate Lipsky, Loreal Prystaj, Raphael Warshaw, Mark Whitney, and Mark Widman. Once the exhibit was installed, gallery partners made a choice for the Best In Show and awarded it to Loreal Prystaj. Congratulations to Loreal and all in the exhibit. We appreciate the participation and support of all who entered with submissions and look forward to seeing your involvement in future juried shows at Image City. We also very much appreciate the work of the four judges for the exhibit, Bill Edwards, Don Menges, Brian Oglesbee, and Betsy Phillips as well as Bridget Aleo, gallery intern, who was a key participant in producing the exhibit and the catalog book.

 

The Portfolio Showcase 2012 catalog features all photographs in the exhibit. Designed by Katherine Denison of Denison Creative and printed by PixelPRESERVE, you will find it to be an exquisite production of photographs and book design. The books are available at the Gallery for $25.

 

We appreciate the underwriting of the awards by show sponsors Lumiere Photo, Denison Creative, and PixelPRESERVE. Their involvement has been first rate! In the East Gallery during the exhibit you will find fine examples of the products and services that they provide. There is also a coupon there for Lumiere Photo with a 20% discount for prints and framing. This is a great opportunity to learn more about these local companies and their support for the needs of artists.

 

Joining in the exhibit are R. Glenn Alexander of pixelPRESERVE, Mark J. Watts of Lumiere Photo and Bridget Aleo, Gallery Intern. We round out the show with work by Jim Patton and David Perlman, Artists-in-Residence, and Gallery Partners Dick Bennett, Carl Crumley, Steve Levinson, Gil Maker, Don Menges, Dan Neuberger, Betsy Phillips, Gary Thompson, Phyllis Thompson, and Sheridan Vincent.

 

For full details of the show click hereBe sure to check out the link to the "Preview of the Show Gallery" to see a selection of the fine works in the show that runs through Sunday, September 2nd.

Peter's Picks from the Exhibit

 

It was another daunting challenge for Peter Marr to make his choices from the exceptional exhibit. Click here to visit the website for the complete discussion and the larger image. 

 

Rolling Waves of Sand by Don DeLong In Don DeLong's Rolling Waves of Sand, Peter commented "This is an impressive landscape, where the golden waves of sand are exquisitely displayed against a barren rocky terrain. This distinctive vista is visually enhanced by the two contrasting color hues, the yellow chromes of the dunes, imposingly set against the purplish hues of the rock formations. What is clearly evident, is that nature's forces over time have given us two distinctive panoramas, wonderfully captured by Don for all to admire and marvel at. In the background, over eons of time, the combined forces of wind, water and temperature extremes have resulted in this striking rock structure. Here, the layered elements are interrupted by crevices, valleys, and outcrops, that have probably not significantly changed over many centuries. Contrast this with the sand structures in the lower half of the print, where daily, the dunes change in shape and form constantly. ....." more. 

 

For a second choice from JFK/AJVK's portfolio, Peter noted  "These impressive photographs taken in the tunnel connecting two concourses in Chicago's O'Hare airport are simply magical, and selecting just one to comment further on from the author's outstanding portfolio, was certainly difficult, but I finally chose Light Flush 1. The lighting is superb, eloquently emphasizing every facet of the outstanding architecture, from the majestic vertical elements, all the way to the elegantly carved lines of the overhanging forms, as these awe-inspiring structures sensuously traverse the walkway as far as the eye can see. The resplendent reflections on the floor and upper facade are simply entrancing, and I particularly liked the black negative space at the top of the image, which to me is highly significant, representing the sky and the unknown, into or from which the people in the tunnel will or have flown. Into this architectural wonderland, there is a constant stream of people entering or leaving, some in great haste, some stepping more sedately, the vast majority using the powered neon walkway, whilst a few choose a more solitary avenue, avoiding the crowds and mechanical assistance. Intriguingly, one might ask that with the high pedestrian traffic flow, how many people would take the time, or even have the time, to admire the inspirational surroundings" ....." more.

 

Waterfall Dreams by Kate LipskyPeter's next selection was Waterfall Dreams by Kate Lipsky. "This is an elegant image in which the author has meticulously and artistically, photographed a beautiful model positioned resting against a gently cascading stream, which meanders over her lovely white dress. The dress has been stylishly arranged, so that the pleats mirror the vertical flowing elements of the stream. The outstretched arms of the young lady rest peacefully on the rocky outcrop, her flowing hair in unison with the waterfall. This idyllic scene is one image in Kate's outstanding portfolio of "Revelations," in which she is exploring the concept of reveal/conceal. For myself, this particular print has an atmospheric mood and drama that is both dreamlike and impressionistic, together with a mystical quality that is uplifting. A great credit should be given to the model to steadfastly follow the photographer's instructions, and pose so gracefully in what was certainly an unusual and challenging set-up. She looks relaxed and unfearful in this setting, and even her hands and fingers rest gently on the ledge, in spite of the fact that the water swirling behind her must be decidedly chilly. The model's facial expression is definitely one of peace and tranquility, although what she is thinking or concealing is unknown to us. Viewers must project their own imagination onto the photograph ....." more.

 

Quiet Brilliance by Loreal Prystaj Commenting on Loreal Prystaj's photograph, Peter observed that "Loreal's outstanding portfolio on the theme of Fabricated Reality explores in her words, the concept of being a "child" within a body that continues to age. All of her images display a dramatic and extraordinary use of light, and this is creatively apparent in Quiet Brilliance. Here, the masterly use of back-lighting gives heightened visual drama, as we witness a young girl, facing away from the camera, and seated at a desk, with her arms resting comfortably on the wooden top, whilst her feet are raised so that only the toes touch the glistening floorboards. The exquisite illumination casts a partial shadow on the floor, and we are very cognizant of a small lighted table lamp and a glowing circular container at the left-hand side of the desk. Like in the other images in this portfolio, the artist is asking every viewer, including herself, to explore the concept of timelessness, from childhood to adulthood, looking into the darkness and light that can be found in each individual. Certainly, everyone's situation in life is different, depending on parameters such as where we live in the world, family, health, financial constraints, etc, just to highlight a few. Also obviously, the paths our lives take are mostly unpredictable, no one can predict the future with any assurance, but we do know that we must always be aware of the world around us, together with the societal impact that we all face. What is clearly evident to me in the memorable print, is that in this current, non-stop, fast-paced era, the young girl is able to sit in a quiet, undisturbed area, and peacefully, but objectively, reflect on her past , her current situation, and the future. ........." more

Fall Courses and Workshops at Image City
 
We are proud to announce our third series of Gallery Courses. Click here to learn the details of the Fall curriculum. Here is a quick mention of each course and workshop:
 
Let's Shoot Fireworks by Carl Crumley,
Learning About Your New Camera by Dick Bennett,
Cell Phone Photography by Gil Maker,
A Day of Shooting and Critique by Gil Maker,
Layers and Masks by Don Menges,
Creating the Fine Digital Print with Adobe Lightroom 4.0 by Steve Levinson,
Learn NIK Silver Efex Pro 2 by Gil Maker,
Hands on HDR by Don Menges and Carl Crumley,
Photoshop Elements 10 by Gil Maker,
and One-on-One Coaching by any Gallery Partner.
 
There is no mail-in or online registration. Please visit the Gallery to sign up for courses.
Call for Submissions - Cell Phone Photography
 Deadline for Submissions is September 21 
 

Cell phones have become the camera of choice for many people. The camera phone is not only a way to take snapshots. It is becoming a new force in fine art photography. Image City Photography Gallery is pleased to announce the 2nd Juried Cell Phone Photography Exhibit. Submissions for the juried show begin August 18 and end September 21, 2012. The entry fee for the show is $15 till September 7 and $20 from September 8. The entry fee allows you to enter 4 images.

 

Submission of images is as follows:

 

All images must be taken with a cell phone.

Any manipulation done to the images must be done on the cell phone. No COMPUTER manipulation is allowed.

 

Notice of acceptance for the show will be mailed out on September 28, 2012. For more information and a copy of the entry form click hereYou may also pick up an entry form at Image City Photography Gallery. 

Gary Thompson's Photo Tip
Use light bouncing into small shaded areas of streams to produce colorful, minimalistic images.

  

Golden Current by Gary Thompson Last month I discussed how to use bright light bouncing into large shaded areas of streams to produce a landscape image called, Gold on the Little River. This month I am describing how to produce more impressionistic style images by moving in close and using small shaded areas of streams. When making these images I like to move in tight with a telephoto lens and isolate on a specific area that contains interesting reflections from light bouncing off foliage, canyon walls, or direct light from the sky.

 

Small shaded areas along waterways, with interesting light, are difficult to recognize. These small areas are much more common in and around streams than are larger shaded areas. Upon locating a shaded area I try to move around and observe the play of light as it reflects off of the water. I move right, then left, then up and then down, etc. Sometimes I am working with a tiny pool of water and at other times I may be dealing with a small cascade or a section of a waterfall. After finding an aesthetic view point I try to isolate the specific area and light that attracted me. Usually a telephoto lens is needed for isolating and composing. For images involving reflections I often photograph without a polarizer. This gives me a faster shutter speed and more reflected light. On other occasions, I try photographing both with and without a polarizer. I can then judge the different effects of polarization through my viewfinder. I always bracket exposures widely when photographing these kinds of images

In my example photograph I used a telephoto lens zoomed to about 250 mm and did not use a polarizer.

The essence of the image is the curl of relatively white water as it rolls out of and away from the golden current. The golden color was provided by light reflecting from the canopies of yellow leafed trees. The blue color is the result of reflected light from a blue sky. I used slide film, which captured the image exactly as I had viewed it.

 

Click here to see a larger image and to see the full series of "Gary's Photo Tips."


 

Image City Critiques

At Image City on Wednesday, September 5 at 7pm

 

Each month, we enjoy a good turnout for Image City Critiques, our program at Image City to provide participants an opportunity to engage in a friendly, constructive, and positive critique and review of their photographs. The sessions are held on the first Wednesday of the month. Join us for the next on Wednesday, September 5th from 7:00-9:00 pm.

 
The assignment for this session is to send two of your photographs that break the "rules" of compostion to share for discussion with the group. Send all images to Gil Maker (gmaker@mac.com) before Wednesday. September 5th.
Some Changes at Image City
  
The Board of Directors, the Partners, of Image City Photography Gallery recently held an election of officers. We are pleased to announce the following: Steve Levinson, President; Don Menges, Vice-President, Dick Bennett, Secretrary, and Sheridan Vincent, Treasurer. The past officers were Gary Thompson, President, Steve Levinson, Vice-President, and Phyllis Thompson, Secretary. We are grateful for their leadership and significant contributions in their roles over the past years at Image City.
 
You will notice when you next visit Image City that we have spruced up a bit. We recently installed new carpet. We think you will find it easy on the eyes, ears, and legs during your visit. Over the years we have strived to improve the quality of the artistic and physical experience of visiting patrons. 
Calendar of Events
Image City Photography Gallery, 722 University Avenue 

 

September 2 - Last day of Portfolio Showcase 2012
September 5 - Image City Critiques, 7pm
September 5 - First day of new exhibit Places of Faith by Don Menges and Adriatic Impressions by Steve Levinson
September 7 - Opening Reception Places of Faith by Don Menges and Adriatic Impressions by Steve Levinson
September 7 - First Friday Gallery Night at Image City, 6 - 9pm
 
Image City Photography Gallery   Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 11 - 7, Sunday Noon - 4  
 

There is no admission fee to visit Image City Photography Gallery

Contact Information

 Image City Photography Gallery, 722 University Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607

585.271.2540 
website: www.ImageCityPhotographyGallery.com 

 

In the Heart of ARTWalk in the Neighborhood of the Arts