(A little introduction and side note – Paducah is a sleepy little town in Western KY. It is two hours to Nashville, three hours to St. Louis, etc. We get “excited” over local exhibits and opportunities. And, like so many of the rest of you, I don’t have access to a photography club or group. Most of my “intellectual photography discussions” are on-line with good folks just like YOU!)
Normally I won’t share with readers of this blog information about “lunch dates;” however, yesterday’s lunch will be an exception.
My good friend Barbara and I purposefully chose our location for lunch because the local restaurant was currently featuring a gallery type exhibition of photos selected from the Paducah Summer Festival Photo Contest. Fortunately the crowd was slim and we were able to spend time viewing and discussing the photos of some 130 featured artists.
While Barbara is not actively involved in photography she is quite knowledgeable about photography basics, has a wonderful artist eye, and a very inquisitive mind.
It was interesting to discuss with Barbara images that moved us, impressed us, fascinated us, amused us… However, more often than not, we would raise an eyebrow and wonder what the juror saw in a particular image that we were missing.
If you didn’t click on the earlier hyperlink for the photo contest, please consider doing so now. The wining and second place images are featured. (Both images can be viewed a little larger by clicking on the image.) I would be interested in hearing your reactions and comments.
I returned home with a list of techniques to research and learn more about. I think it’s “a very good thing” to challenge ourselves, stretch, and grow. Visiting the photo exhibition was a great experience and opportunity.
How do YOU challenge yourself, stretch, and grow? Do you have local exhibits that you visit for “inspiration?”
