The Chronicle

Carolyn Dimmick
Staff Writer



      My Digital Photography III class, led by Professor and Communications Arts Dean Roland Miller, went to the“Beyond Pixeltorialism” series March 4.


      As a group, most of us really enjoyed all the pieces because of their diversity and in the sheer beauty of their creativity.  Some felt they were too safe and didn’t really ride the edges of controversy, others thought the message was confusing, a few deemed the messages were right on target and certain students considered the images disturbing.


      This happened quite a lot with Doug Manley’s works, but I think he rather enjoys making people feel a bit uncomfortable in a strange way, kind of like a car crash, you don’t enjoy the view, but you can’t quite tear your eyes away. 


      I found them all to be very interesting, the images were diverse and the styles eclectic.  They were all captivating in their portrayal of the artist’s vision.  Some more so than others, depending on how the audience viewed them.


      They all had something to offer.  My personal favorite was Todd Bertolaet’s work.  I really appreciated how he presented photos with color juxtaposing black and white and the use of photo corners, it was visually appealing.  The writing and doodles lent a personal touch I found quite nostalgic. 


      The rest have special characteristics as well. I found Michael Brown’s lenticular optics to be wondrous and they speak to the child in me.  I like Kelly Connell’s photos in their honest portrayal of the identities of everyday people.  Mark Allen Francis’ took me back to summertime and county fairs and I appreciated the portrayal of point of view. Ben Gest’s photos exemplified use of space as well as personal interaction or, in this case, lack thereof. 


      There was something for everybody to see and to enjoy.  I really appreciate when our school showcases the talents and vision of artists of all genres, but I especially appreciate when we show photographic works because it gives me an idea of what direction I may want to take my work once I leave these hallowed halls and take what I have learned from my amazingly talented photography professors out into the world of fine art photography.  I look forward to the next interesting exhibit.