Honorable Mention
Tidal Landscape
by Alison C. Ives

Honorable Mention
Band Aid
Digital Photography
by John Leuba

It was a pleasure to walk into an exhibition space filled with the work of a group of photographers all sharing a serious commitment to their art.

A juror is assigned the task of whittling down and then choosing for distinction, a very few pieces. This selection process can be tricky and is admittedly subjective, especially when such a diverse body of work is being shown.

There were works of distinction in all approaches to photography and I sought to be inclusive. A spirit of experimentation was evident in work based in digital technology, in the work of those using traditional, and even antique processes. It was encouraging to see that, even within the work that had not quite been resolved, I could perceive where the artists were going with it.

The work which stands is that which conveyed a sense of mystery, that caused me to want to look further into the image for clues, that invited my eye into the entire picture. The pieces needed to be able to stand alone without the benefit of contextual information.

Also important was the print quality. It needed to be as strong as the strength of the image in order that the photograph’s meaning be fully delivered to the viewer. In terms of presentation, the mat and frame ought not to have distracted or overpowered the image itself.

I gratefully offer my thanks to Karen Barthelson and the staff of the Mystic Arts Center for their assistance throughout the process (including a delicious and artfully prepared dinner by Gretchen Higgins).

Gail Porter
Photography Instructor
Rhode Island School of Design, Continuing Education Program