Image City Photography Gallery
Newsletter |
Issue: # 87 | December 10, 2014 | |
For a webpage version of the Newsletter Click Here
We publish our Newsletter during each of our exhibits to pass along information and reviews of the exhibit, selected images and news of 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 the 13 shows we produce in 2014.
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Holiday Show 2014 -- Gallery Partners, Artists-in-Residence, & 10 Guest Photographers
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Current Show Runs Through Tuesday, December 23
Our current exhibit, Holiday Show 2014, has been well received with enthusiastic attendance at our opening reception last Friday. The show features the work of Gallery Partners, Artists-in-Residence, and 10 Guest Photographers in our 10th Annual Holiday Show. We expand our holiday visiting and purchasing opportunities to include Monday December 8, 15, and 22 for the exhibit. If desired, buyers may remove a photograph at the time of purchase during the Holiday Show, rather than wait until the end of the show. You will find a wonderfully diverse exhibit of photographs; certainly you could find one that would be perfect to purchase for your home or office décor or for a novel gift that friends and family would long appreciate. At the same time you will lend your support to the exhibiting artists and the Gallery. The striking photo on our promotional card for the show and also part of the exhibit is called Conversation by John Solberg.
The Holiday Show 2014 exhibit is sponsored by our neighbor, Thomas J. Kroon, Financial Advisor, Edward Jones located just down the avenue at 706 University Avenue. Click here to learn more about this show's sponsor. We thank Tom for his long-time support at Image City.
The ten Guest Photographers are Peter Bilous, Archie Curry, Bruce Elling, Bonnie Gamache, Sherman Henzel, Joel Krenis, Scott Matyjaszek, Luann Pero, Ted Tatarzyn, and Charles Vaughn.
Gallery Partners and Artists-in-Residence are Dick Bennett, Carl Crumley, Steve Levinson, Gil Maker, Don Menges, Dan Neuberger, Jim Patton, David Perlman, Betsy Phillips, John Solberg, Gary Thompson, Phyllis Thompson, and Sheridan Vincent.
For the Holiday Show we will be open additional hours on Mondays, December 8, 15, and 22, noon to 6pm. Our Gallery will be closed from December 24 to January 1 for the holidays and to set up our next exhibit, The Magic of Light 2015, another exciting show that opens on January 2.
Click here to a preview on our website of a selection of photographs from the exhibit. There is no admission fee at Image City and is accessible to all.
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Peter Marr's Picks of the Show | |
We are very fortunate to have Peter Marr, photographer, competition judge, and past president of the Kodak Camera Club, select his "picks" by featured artists in the show after a very careful critical review. We enjoy the added feature he brings to the exhibit by way of an enlightening review of the chosen photo and with his thoughts on what attracted him to it. We publish his comments with the photo in the exhibit and online, as well as in the newsletter. We very much appreciate Peter's contributions. Peter picked five photos from the exhibit and his commentary follows. They are also posted onlne, click here.
Drainage
by Archie C. Curry
Meaningful art is mind changing, and here, the author has magically transformed the confluence of two culverts into a visionary image that has both philosophical and psychological implications, as well as provoking visual concern. There is a mood and drama in this scene that is truly thought-provoking. The soft lighting is spectacular, resulting in a striking color palette of autumnal hues, that left what could be a dreary scene into one that has a warmth and glow that is both reassuring and satisfying, especially considering the subject matter. To appreciate the hidden beauty of this setting, the viewer has to look beyond the façade that is essentially a creatively recorded documentary of social deprivation and urban squalor. These two drains are sewers that are discharging waste material into a polluted area, a scenario that has probably existed for many years. This is an environ that few have visited or are even aware of, and there are further questions that one might raise, namely, what are upstream of these two culverts, and what is downstream? The senseless addition of graffiti is an unnecessary distraction, for it mars the lovely brick and stonework and support structure of the elegant archway of the culvert. The silver lining may be that such desecration may call attention to this polluted space, and result in some sort of clean-up, that will at least take care of the health hazards and pollution problems. The artist is much to be admired for taking such a meaningful photograph, which not only highlights an area of urban concern, but he has done it in such an artistic way, that the resulting print is memorable and uplifting.
The Old Timers
by Scott Matyjaszek
No exhibition at the Image City would be complete without the addition of the inspired work of Scott, whose unbounded creativity is a product of his inner conviction. Here, in a series of 3-dimensional "Photo Sculptures," the highlight is an incredible cathedral composition, but I decided to comment further on an equally awesome piece, namely, The Old Timers largely because I was fascinated by the human element that I was very much aware of. On a vintage wooden shelf there is an array of antique clocks, who are more renowned for their historical value than for their ability to tell the time. The lighting exquisitely reveals an extensive range of muted and delicate color hues, together with a variety of surface textures that are a most compelling visual treat. It may be difficult to imagine what these clocks looked like in their prime, or how well they kept the time, but what is overwhelmingly apparent to me, is that these clocks are indeed a family, representing at least 3 generations. The central clock is very much the father, strikingly exemplified by the colorful facial feature, and the ornate, decorative detail on the body. His wife, appropriately for the era that they originated from, stands quietly behind him, having ornamentation that is much more subdued. The eldest son, who is proudly placed ahead of his father, reveals a body frame and sterner visage appropriate for a more modern generation, certainly not typical of his parents. The youngest sibling, almost certainly feminine because of her square face and back, clean cap, and more slender body. She exudes a more modern approach to life, and is definitely "with it" for she has everything on the ground, not needing the feet that the rest of her family has. It is important to note that the young girl is facing away from the other clocks, possibly indicating a complete disdain for the rest of the family. The clock on the far left is certainly the patriarch, although there is some doubt in this conclusion, for although the face has aged beyond recognition, the body is more shiny and featureless with a cap that has more than an ample covering of rust. Of course, it is possible that severe ailments and repeated hospitalization could have contributed to the loss of features and character. Although this is a light-hearted interpretation of this exceptional piece of art, I do sincerely believe that these clocks have a life and character of their own, inanimate as they are. I hope that every viewer who has the good fortune to see this superb composition will take the time to study it and come up with their own ideas as to what they really see or imagine. One final thought, I just hope that the collector who purchases these antique masterpieces, will buy all 5 of them, so that the family can stay together for many years to come.
Machu Picchu, Llama and Baby
by Ted Tatarzyn
Ted's love for photography and nature is very much evidenced by his superb series of prints on display in the Image Gallery. I am honored to have been a friend and colleague of his for many years, and I have always admired his outstanding artistic talent for creating breathtaking images of a wide variety of diverse subject material, often from remote and challenging areas on every continent in the world. His energy, enthusiasm and dedication are boundless and exhilarating, putting him at the forefront of some of the finest nature photographers in the world. Untold thousands of photographs have been taken of Machu Picchu, but Ted's print in this exhibition ranks right up there with the very best. Obviously, this spectacular image benefits enormously from the incredible presence in the foreground of the llama and her baby. This was definitely no accident. Careful planning of everything from the time of day, the lighting, camera position, and of course animal activity and positioning, all went into the decisive moment when the picture was taken. In admiring this print, one is immediately captivated by the gorgeous backlighting, which lovingly reveals many of the architectural wonders of this ancient city, from the terraces and housing structures, all the way to the dramatic dry stone walls. This illumination and fill-light from the bright surrounds, brilliantly highlights all of the important details in the two animals, from the massive woolly coat of the mother and smoother fine wool structure of the baby llama, all the way to the prominent erect ears of both of them. The color harmony is exquisite, from the sumptuous vivid greens and saturated browns, all set against a blue sky, where fleeting clouds dance across the background expanse. Even the llamas in their rich brown coats blend in beautifully with their surrounds. I love the solitary, resplendent tree set imaginatively against the impressive mountain peak, poignantly both very much alive, sadly overlooking the remains of a once great city that was vibrant and magnificent for only a little more than a century. The two llamas are little changed from their brethren who roamed these hillsides in the 15th century and well beyond. These important animals are now just onlookers to what is now left of an extraordinary civilization. Ted has artistically and inspiringly captured a visionary image for all to see and marvel at.
Algonquin Dock
by Charles Vaughn
This evocative and artistic image, beautifully illustrates that the subject matter is for contemplation and a source of inspiration, as well as expressing the author's own thoughts and feelings. There is a reverence and gracefulness that represents both tranquility and strength, where the latter is restorative, and the overall effect is magical and sublime. Here, there is an atmosphere and heightened awareness that results in both drama and excitement, and a definite feeling that time has been stopped, and that the docks are lifted up to seemingly float into space. The powerful side lighting creates dramatic diagonal patterns, particularly in the central dock, where the striking shadows of the imposing supports, delightfully play and dance across the myriad of textures that have been boldly revealed on the long wooden planks by the cross-illumination. Although we are aware that the docks are firmly embedded into the tranquil lake, together, they have a unity of purpose in directing the viewer to look out across the water to the vista beyond. Here, the soft valley mist creates a wonderful separation between the shoreline of trees and the mountain profile in the far distance. This is an image of affirmation, grace, energy and beauty, and the viewer is very much a part of this scene. The initial reality of loneliness is offset by the feeling that there is a sacredness here, and that the lake is alive. The silence of the docks is not real, for they are resolved to overcome all of the rigors of a cruel and harsh winter ahead, and looking forward to the Spring, where they have an important role to play in all of the boating and recreational activities that transpire at this beautiful lakeside setting.
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Gallery Partner Picks of Photographs by the Guest Photographers | |
In addition to Peter's Picks, Gallery Partners have called out three additional photographs from the exhibit. They are also posted online, click here.
Bronte Beach - Australia by Sherman Henzel
Sherman Henzel has produced a very unique, intriguing and beautiful image in his photograph entitled Bronte Beach. High quality landscapes usually have three basic compositional areas. These photographs are often broken done by about 30% foreground, 45% middle ground, and 25% background. When arranged horizontally these areas often blend quite harmoniously. Sherman has very successfully violated the usual landscape pattern by using a foreground which is about 85% of his landscape and reaches from the bottom to the top of his print. The result is a beautifully creative landscape that emphasizes the very interesting, intricate and unique patterns of the warm cliffs while linking their location to the ocean and its crashing waves. Sometimes, it is effective to break the guidelines in order to produce a really great image. When a photographer does so the chance of success is very, very low. However, in rare instances a real photographic gem can be produced. Sherman Henzel's Bronte Beach is one of those gems.
Staircase Abstract -- Ljubljana, Slovenia by Joel Krenis
Joel Krenis's dramatic abstract image seems to jump powerfully off its photographic paper. He creates great contrast in capturing the red, white, and black colors of this spiral staircase. By using a down the staircase viewpoint, white and black circular lines are dramatically stitched together with the needle like red posts of the staircase's railing. Note how carefully Joel has placed and pointed his camera so that the black and white circular patterns spiral together just to the left and very slightly below the middle of the image. The darkness of the black curl encircling the entwined pattern also lowers the center of gravity of the entwined black and white curl. The evenly spaced red posts lean into and intersect the entwined black and white spiraling patterns. These relationships are not easy to accomplish!
Joel has very carefully and superbly composed this image. The use of a vertical composition further adds impact to the image. The three dominant colors, like odd number subject matter combinations, add to the balance in this superb photograph.
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Correction: Peter's Picks from the Previous Exhibit | |
In the last Newsletter for The Black & White Invitational we erred in the Peter's Picks article by having the wrong photograph with Tim Fuss' commentary by Peter Marr. We apologize for our error. The photograph for Dave Valvo's photo was not available when the newsletter published. Here are the two commentaries:
Bouts by Tim Fuss
As he states in his short biography, Tim portrays the elements of music visually by using the shapes of musical instruments. Many of his outstanding images incorporate a minimalist abstraction approach, often displaying somewhat sensuous curve relationships that are truly fascinating.
I chose Bouts to comment further on, because this print has much more information on the instruments, which additionally allows the viewer to have a true appreciation of the fine craftsmanship of the instrument makers. The studio lighting has been superbly controlled in terms of intensity and direction, leaving only the artist's imagination to create wonderful patterns and interesting variations. The instruments follow diagonal lines which creates powerful compositional effects because of their inherent instability. The high contrast lighting beautifully meshes with the mood and ambience in the image and the flowing curves enhances the visual relationships, which in turn, gives rise to visual harmonies. Although the instruments are at rest, there is an expressive movement and depth with the pattern variations that reflects on rhythms, timbres and harmonies that one can almost hear coming out of the print. Artfully arranged, these magnificent instruments, probably violins, suggest that they have been carefully laid down by members of the string section, possibly during an orchestral intermission. It is left to the viewer to provide their own score to listen to as they study this entrancing image. My own thoughts gravitate to Samuel Barber's "Adagio for Strings." The viewer can also stay longer to listen to what music will be played on these violins after the intermission.
Places of Power- False Kiva by Dave Valvo
All of Dave's breathtaking landscapes exhibit a power and majesty that is so appropriate for the areas where they were photographed. These prints visually excite us because they convey the excitement and the deep personal feelings experienced by the artist, when he is faced with the challenges of making memorable images from such momentous opportunities. "False Kiva" is a panorama of exalted inspiration, a natural expanse that to the Anasazi probably looked closer to paradise, a sheer temple of grandeur, one that no hand of man could have built. The author's love and real enthusiasm for the subject matter, reminds me of what Frederick Sommer once stated, namely, "Subject matter is subject that matters," As a result of the extreme exposure and dynamic range of the scene, the artist had to do considerable manipulation in the digital darkroom in order to come up with the wonderful final print. This is an awesome landscape which exhibits a magical glow befitting the grandeur and nobility of nature. It is very obvious that Dave has deep personal conviction, insight and emotion, and his years of experience in photography have resulted in him "seeing in B/W," and he has been moved to produce such meaningful work. The middle and light gray tonalities dominate this image, but any tonal imbalance has been artistically corrected in the digital darkroom. The viewer cannot help but be astounded by the outstanding detail, the tremendous feeling of three dimensionality from the Kiva perched high on an escarpment, all the way through the canyons to the remote structures in the background. If that were not enough, the impressive and somewhat menacing clouds add a realism that is compelling and powerful. The only other important detail that I would like to add, is that this print and all of Dave's other works are beautifully matted and framed, in keeping with such an outstanding exhibition.
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No Image City Critiques Meeting in January | |
The Image City Critique Group normally meets the first Wednesday of the month but there will be no meeting in January.
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Calendar of Events | |
Image City Photography Gallery, 722 University Avenue
December 23 Last day for The Holiday Show 2014
December 24 - January 1 Gallery will be closed.
January 2 Opening Day The Magic of Light 2015
January 2 Artists' Reception and First Friday Gallery Night The Magic of Light 2015, 5 - 9pm
January 3 Additional Artists' Reception The Magic of Light 2015, 2 - 5pm
Image City Photography Gallery
Special Holiday Hours: Monday - Saturday, Noon - 6
Sunday, Noon - 4
There is no admission fee to visit Image City Photography Gallery
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Contact Information | |
Image City Photography Gallery, 722 University Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607
In the Heart of ARTWalk in the Neighborhood of the Arts |
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