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Juror's Statement
It is extremely difficult to avoid
clichés in a juror's statement. We've all read them and rolled
our eyes in disgust or frustration. But in all sincerity the
process was tough; not so much the first go-around wherein after
reviewing 160 images 41 were singled out. But to accommodate
space allotments (and a directive from the top floor) the final
review was brutal. Consequently, a very good group of images
were reluctantly let go.
Given that my appreciation is
alive and well for a myriad of photographic genres and variants
thereof, this exhibition is indeed eclectic. But that's to be
expected with an open call for entries. There was no attempt
to present a thematic show nor was there a single vision, at least
not consciously, to select work that conceptually fit my own
personal aesthetic. However, I do not warm up to any art that
is clever or saccharine in content. In addition, I have little
patience for photographic imagery where process is the overriding
construct. In short, show me an image that's worth looking at,
be it conceptually, politically, or socially motivated--or simply
beautiful.
My criterion for the selection
process was not atypical. I look for a variety of things,
including originality, technical expertise, critical thinking and a
critical eye. These are integral to an image that does not
readily slip from memory but, indeed, beckons you back for multiple
viewings. I believe the photographic images in Photo NM do
just that for various reasons.
I extend my thanks and
appreciation to Regina Held, Director of Matrix Gallery, for the
opportunity to serve as juror for Photo NM. I also thank her
very competent colleagues for the organization and installation of
this show. To all of the photographer/artists who submitted
work, I urge you to keep working despite impossible odds of "great"
success as a creative individual. And finally, I salute Regina
for supporting contemporary photography in New Mexico.
Douglas Fairfield, Curator,
Albuquerque Museum
Photo NM Information:
Photo NM Gallery Talk with Doug Fairfield:
Saturday, July 19, 1 – 2 PM
Exhibition dates: July 5 - 26; (Early Bird Preview: July 1 -
5)
Reception: Saturday, July 5, from 5 – 8:00 PM
(Please, note that due to the July 4 Holiday this
reception does not take place on the First Friday)
Background: Matrix Fine Art invited
photographers currently living and working in New Mexico in all
mediums, styles and schools of thought to participate in the
competition. All photographic processes were accepted for
consideration including digital, non-silver, non-traditional and
three dimensional works. There was no specific
theme for Photo NM.
In total, 54 photographers
entered 158 works; the juror selected 26 works by 25 photographers
for the exhibition. Selected works range from
from traditional New Mexico imagery to
abstract and figurative photography. Please join us in
celebrating the pinnacle of New Mexico photographic talent in this
must-see show.
Awards: Juror’s Choice Award and People’s
Choice Award. The People's Choice Award will be tallied during
the opening reception and announced prior to 8:00 PM.
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