Gerry Dotto Photography: Special Guest Post

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Alexis Marie: Continuing on in the InFocus Alumni photography blog series, I am pleased to introduce Gerry Dotto. Taking the everyday and making it interesting is quite a feat. I hope you enjoy Gerry’s images and the way he expounds on them.

Welcome Gerry!

 

GUEST POST

 

On a recent trip to Boston, I visited the Museum of Fine Arts to see an exhibition of works by two historically prominent photographers: Herb Ritts and Gordon Parks. It was a great show, and the impact of seeing iconic photos up close and in person really left an impression. This experience truly underscores the importance of getting one’s photographs printed and, if the occasion arises, put on display. It’s one thing to look at a digital image on the screen, but it’s no comparison to a well-printed photograph that allows you to truly appreciate the tone, the light and the detail.

 

copyright Gerry Dotto

“Stickers or Stamps, Crutches or Stilts” 2014, Digital print on photo paper 22” x 17” (55.9 x 43.2 cm) image size Edition of 30, copyright Gerry Dotto

I recently had the opportunity to participate in the InFocus Edmonton exhibition, where I showed a photo from a series I’ve been developing called “Flow of Traffic Theory.” My work is conceptual in nature and is based on exploring our interaction with everyday forms of visual communication. This series originated from my fascination with the simplicity and universality of the imagery used on road signs. Specifically, signs whose words and symbols have become obscured or distorted in some way.

 

Peach Inspediment - Composite 1, 2014, Digital print on photo paper, 22” x 16” (55.9 x 40.6 cm) image size, Edition of 30, Copyright Gerry Dotto

Peach Inspediment – Composite 1, 2014,
Digital print on photo paper, 22” x 16” (55.9 x 40.6 cm) image size, Edition of 30, Copyright Gerry Dotto

Over the course of the last several years, I’ve kept a keen eye out for road signs that have been damaged, run over, victims of adverse weather or compromised by construction. The interesting thing is that these signs are generally overlooked by drivers—no need to look at a sign that can’t be read. The signs, in effect, become “invisible.” The value of these signs, relative to the message they once carried, has been lost. They now take on an aesthetic value of their own, either in their appearance, the reinterpretation of their message or based on the context of their physical location. The images in this series set out to reveal the relative beauty of these objects that have lost their inherent value.

 

"Red Cross" 2012, Digital print on photo paper, 22” x 15.5” (55.9 x 39.4 cm) image size, edition of 30, Copyright Gerry Dotto

“Red Cross” 2012, Digital print on photo paper, 22” x 15.5” (55.9 x 39.4 cm) image size, edition of 30, Copyright Gerry Dotto

During the run of the InFocus Edmonton exhibition, I met a few photographers whose work I was familiar with but hadn’t had the occasion to meet yet. Seeing my work in relation to theirs, as well as other photos in the show, fostered some new perspectives on how I approached my own picture making. I realized that many of my photos of road signs were taking on human characteristics, in the sense that I was portraying them like they were portraits of people—people wearing masks. What are they hiding? Is it about insecurity? A secret identity? Is it a game? In the end, these photos offer more questions than answers.

 

Ultimately, photography is a medium about “showing” what’s in our world and, in theory, it captures “truth.” The photographic print remains the best medium for revealing the photographer’s vision. Personally, I benefitted from this exhibition experience when deeper aspects of my own work were revealed to me. While I set out to show the world my vision, I’m hiding from it, too. You can see more of my work on my website, gerrydotto.com, or contact me at gerry@gerrydotto.com

 

 

Why Analogue Photography: Guest Post by Candace Makowichuk

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Alexis Marie: The third in our line-up for the InFocus Alumni photography blog series is Candace Makowichuk. Candace uses alternative process in her photography and the way she talks about it is inspiring. I hope you enjoy her work!

Welcome Candace!

 

GUEST POST

 

Why Analogue Photography

by Candace Makowichuk

 

Why? This is a word I continually hear from photographers and others when they find out that I shoot film and specialize in historical photographic processes. Why go through all that work when you can do similar techniques digitally? For me there are many reasons why I have chosen to continue working with the photographic processes I love.

 

I have always been interested in the “alternative” photographic processes since the beginning of my art studies. Today I work with Gum Bichromate, Cyanotype, Van Dykes, Bromoil and Silver Gelatin. I will be pursuing Tin Types and Lith prints over the next several months. The processes I have mentioned are just a few of the many invented in the 19th and 20th Century and it would be amazing to have the time to learn more!

 

Copyright Candace Makowichuck

“Modern Touch” copyright Candace Makowichuk

These historical photographic processes render one-of-a-kind images, impossible to predictably reproduce by hand. It is this unpredictability, which fascinates me. You have only so much control over the final print; the rest is due to chemistry, the hand coating, and your support/backing (paper, fabric, ect). The many steps involved all react to your individual style of work – and sometimes mistakes or accidents produce wonderful results!

 

The time required to learn one of these many processes is challenging. It requires patience and determination as it can take considerable trial and error to become proficient. This challenge is also appealing to me as the satisfaction of producing your first successful print using a new process is very rewarding.

 

Copyright Candace Makowichuck

“Twisted” copyright Candace Makowichuk

I do shoot digital. I have to as large sheet film – 16×20 and larger – is no longer available. Many of the historical processes use a contact printing technique and the most economical way to make a large negative is to output digitally. This also interests me – combining modern technology with historical.

 

The hand coated emulsions and Bromoil techniques are unique in their appearance as the hand of the artist is very evident in every part of the image, from the brush strokes to the applying of ink. This is the main appeal as to why I pursue these processes, the evidence of a human touch. I become a part of it, it is physical. From the movements of processing film, to the movements of coating your supports, to the movement of processing your print, you are immersed in the physical component of producing an image. Also being in the dark with the sound of water where time disappears. All very different from sitting in front of your computer to produce a photograph.

 

"Way Up" copyright Candace Makowichuk

“Way Up” copyright Candace Makowichuk

The InFocus exhibition in Edmonton Alberta showcased a variety of photographers work and I was pleased to have been a part of it. There were two of us in this exhibition that use analogue based photography for our work allowing the public to have the opportunity to view processes that are rarely used today. Both of us analogue photographers in the InFocus exhibition are members of the Monochrome Guild, a group of photographers dedicated to working with film-based processes.

 

Contact Candace:

Twitter: Sunprintstudio

Web Site: www.candacemakowichuk.com

 

Martin Snider Photography: Special Guest Post

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Alexis Marie: We continue the InFocus Alumni photography blog series with photographer Martin Snider. Martin has a unique perspective on the world and I’m glad he is sharing it with us.

Welcome Martin!

 

GUEST POST

 

Thinking back, I can remember those frigid mornings spent on the barren prairies of the greater CFB Wainwright training area.  I watched the brilliant pinks and oranges set fire to the sky as the sun would crest the horizon, spilling rays of light onto the frost covered blades of grass below.  At the time such scenes were not often the object of my focus, however, I can recall them vividly now.  On occasion though, the opportunity might arise long enough for me to snap a quick picture to send back home, serving as a postcard to a world beyond my immediate one. Without even realizing it at the time, that’s where my romance with the lens and world began.

Copyright Martin Snider

Copyright Martin Snider

Its been a little while now, since that chapter of snapping covert sunrise cell phone pics began. In the mean time a lot has changed. The learning curve was pretty steep for someone who’s photographic experience had been limited to taking maybe 5 rolls of film in their life (with an old film point and shoot none the less). Through much trial and error, as well as guidance from colleagues and friends, an image of my place in the photo scene is now starting to develop.

As a rookie to this, I have been infinitely fortunate in working along side some incredibly talented individuals. They have greatly aided in inspiring me, as well as guiding my course in the right direction.  Being one of the featured artists in this past years InFocus YEG exhibition, has to date been one of the largest contributing factors in encouraging me to pursue my dream of becoming a professional photographer. Receiving such recognition has only given validity to my experiment in challenging perspective, while at the same time practicing my technique and creativity.

Copyright Martin Snider

Copyright Martin Snider

Modern technology and social media have also been highly instrumental in aiding my attempts at visual story telling.  Through Instagram I’ve collected a catalogue of photos, documenting my travels, as well as moments from my day to day life.  Included in this album are various highlights from a summer spent adventuring through British Columbia’s interior as well as Vancouver Island and the American Pacific North West.  At this time I’m looking forward to utilizing social media further by incorporating Tumblr and Snapchat to share more of the story behind the photos.

To be able to wake up every day and live out your passion, all the while being the person who you were made to be, is the ultimate goal for me.  In my eyes, that’s what true freedom is.  To communicate the beauty and mystery in life through an image is what continues to give these attempts meaning and provides the drive which always draws my best foot forward.  Hopefully that shows through my work and breathes authenticity in each photo.

Copyright Martin Snider

Copyright Martin Snider

 

Life is a story, how will you tell yours?

 

Best Regards,

Martin Snider

 

Facebook: M. Snider Photography

Instagram: @after.mars

Tumblr: www.tumblr.com/blog/aftermarsphoto

Snapchat: mjrsnider

 

Hedy Bach Photography: Special Guest Post

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Alexis Marie: I am excited to kick off the InFocus Alumni photography blog series with Hedy Bach. She is a perceptive and thoughtful woman, not to mention a blossoming photographer. I hope you enjoy her words and images.

Welcome Hedy!

 

GUEST POST

 

Some days opening up an email can be both joyous and a grateful surprise.

 

Dec 14, 2014 at 8:58 PM, InfocusYEG <infocus@alexismariechute.com> wrote: 

Dear Hedy Bach,

Congratulations! I am happy to inform you that your work has been selected for the inaugural InFocus Edmonton exhibition!

Sincerely,

Alexis Marie Chute, Curator

InFocusYEG.com

@infocusYEG

We have chosen your following image for InFocus:

 

Hedy Bach Photography

Copyright Hedy Bach

 

Through the encouragement of my dear friend Eva I had entered my photography work to the InFocus Edmonton exhibition…so having my photograph selected by Alexis Marie along side of other local photographer’s works for this exhibition was both exciting and humbling…now I hope these sorts of experiences will be followed by many other photography exhibitions.

 

As an image-maker I study how the world around me looks and sounds through ordinary harmony and fittingness. I work daily with my camera and with words to compose beautiful “thought things” (Arendt, 1978) as a way to form ideas and to inspire reflection and rumination; perhaps start a conversation.  I am intentional in choosing to photograph my life with beauty… beauty as consoling, disturbing, sacred, profane; it can be exhilarating, appealing, inspiring, chilling. And it may affect us in unlimited ways. Yet it is never viewed with indifference.

 

Hedy Bach Photography

Copyright Hedy Bach

 

Exploring Scruton’s (2009) concept of beauty, means I ask what makes an object – either in art, in nature, or the human form – beautiful? I examine how I compare differing judgements/positions of beauty when it is evident all around us knowing that aesthetic tastes vary widely. I often ask myself is there a right judgement to be made about beauty? In my image based work I try to create a sense of meaning in the beautiful objects and experiences that fill my life.

 

My photographs are allegories for my understandings of human desire for settlement of spaces and places in which people and things fit together. I appreciate beauty along side of my sense of “disinterested interest.” as I try to negotiate my subjectivities of looking and composing my “thought things” with ideas of why beauty matters, to see the remedy of beauty as an instrument of peace.

 

Hedy Bach Photography

Copyright Hedy Bach

Please contact Hedy Bach:

http://sloppybuddhist.com/

http://hedybach.tumblr.com/

https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/HedyBachProductions

hefbach@gmail.com

 

Special Guest Blog Posts by InFocus Alumni Photographers

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Starting on Tuesday, I am honoured to share the work of some truly interesting photographers. These individuals were featured in the inaugural InFocus Exhibit held at Harcourt House Artist Run Centre this past February in Edmonton. InFocus was a huge success. Over 250 people visited the show over two days and at the opening reception I was thrilled to announce some good news.

InFocus will be an annual exhibit during Exposure Photography Festival. That means the discovery and promotion of more unique and cutting edge photography and more support for our creative community. InFocus will run the entire month of February, 2016, and will be held at a DC3 Art Projects in Edmonton. 2015 was open to Edmonton and area photographers, but soon the call for submissions will be released welcoming images from photographers across Alberta. There is so much to look forward to!

I am proud to curate InFocus. For more information, please click here. To receive blog updates and info about the call for submissions, please subscribe.

Here is the schedule of InFocus Photographers who will be sharing their passion for photography with us:

Hedy Bach – Tuesday, May 26, 2015

Martin Snider – Tuesday, June 2, 2015

Candace Makowichuk – Tuesday, June 9, 2015

Gerry Dotto – Tuesday, June 16, 2015

Wilfred Kozub – Tuesday, June 23, 2015

Robert Pohl – Tuesday, June 30, 2015

InFocus Photography Exhibit Update

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InFocus 2015 was a huge success that saw over 250 people visit the exhibition at Harcourt House this past February during Exposure Photography Festival. Planning is already underway for InFocus 2016 and over the next ten months new exciting details and opportunities will be revealed! Click here to view the InFocus info page which will be updated regularly. Stay tuned for the call for submissions.

InFocus Photography Exhibition 20115

InFocus Photography Exhibition 2015

For now, here is the WHAT, WHEN, WHERE, WHY & HOW for the next InFocus Photography Exhibit:

WHAT: A celebration of the best images and image-makers from across the province of Alberta.

WHEN: February 1 – 29, 2016

WHERE: DC3 Art Projects commercial gallery in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

WHY: “Photography is the medium of our times.” – Exposure Photography Festival

HOW: We will be opening the submissions for InFocus 2016 soon! Please check back here often for updates and submission details. Also, subscribe to the AMC blog to receive notifications. For now, prepare your best work! We look forward to your submissions. Email Alexis Marie info@alexismariechute.com with your address to be added to our mailing list.

***

InFocus Edmonton 2015 Alexis Marie Chute artist curator photography 03 blog

InFocus Photography Exhibition 2015

Over the next few months I will be sharing guest blog posts by the 2015 InFocus Alumni. They will write about their work and inspiration as photographers and their experience in InFocus. I’m eager to read their stories!

Here are the confirmed photographers who will be guest blogging here on Alexis Marie Art:

Hedy Bach

Gerry Dotto

Curtis Trent

Candace Makowichuk

Robert Pohl

Al Dixon

Martin Snider

InFocus Edmonton 2015 Alexis Marie Chute artist curator photography 01 blog

InFocus Photography Exhibition 2015

 

Below you will find contact info to help you stay connected to some of the amazing photographers from our 2015 InFocus exhibit:

 

Hedy Bach 

Company Name: Hedy Bach consulting

Website: http://sloppybuddhist.com/

Email Address: hefbach@gmail.com / hbach@ualberta.ca

Phone: 780-819-7762

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/hedy.bach

Twitter Handle: https://twitter.com/hefbach

Tumblr Page: http://hedybach.tumblr.com/

 

 

Gerry Dotto

Website:  gerrydotto.com

Email:  gerry@gerrydotto.com

 

 

Al Dixon

Company Name:  Al Dixon Photography

Website:  www.aldixonphotography.com

Email Address:  info@aldixonphotography.com

Phone:  (780) 915 3674

Facebook Page:  www.facebook.com/AlDixonPhotography

Twitter Handle:  @Al_D_Photo

 

 

Christopher Shaw

www.christophershawphotography.com

christophershawphotography@gmail.com

 

 

Name: Candace Makowichuk
Company Name: Sunprint Studio
Website: www.candacemakowichuk.com
email: cmakowichuk@telus.net
Facebook page:Photography by Candace Makowichuk
twitter: sunprintstudio
 

Brady Simpson

info@bradysimpson.com

780-655-2284

www.bradysimpson.com

 

 

Akemi Matsubuchi

company: Akemi Matsubuchi Photography

website: www.matsubuchi.ca (website still under construction)

email: akemiphotog@gmail.com

phone: 780 619-9783

twitter: akemimats

 

 

Martin Snider

Company Name: Glovebox Photography

Website: www.gloveboxphotography.com

Email Address: mjrsnider11@gmail.com

Phone: 780-803-4240

Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/gloveboxphotography

Instagram @m.j.r.snider

 

 

Kevin Tuong

Company Name: KTB Photography

Website: www.ktbphotography.ca (Commercial) & www.kevintuong.com (Personal)

Email Address: kevin@ktbphotography.ca

Phone: 780-952-1608

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/kevin.tuong.3

Twitter Handle: @KevinTuong

Google+:  https://plus.google.com/u/0/+KevinTuong/posts

 

 

Bri Vos

Company Name: Detour Photography

Website: www.detourphotography.ca

Email Address: bri@detourphotography.ca

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/detourphotography

Twitter Handle: @detourphoto

Instagram – @detourphoto

 

 

Eric Petersen

Website: https://500px.com/theruggedone

Email Address:  eric@prosperityengine.ca

Phone: 780-266-0003

Twitter Handle: @ericpet

 

 

Chan Rin

Company Name: Vivid Ribbon Photography & Design

Website: www.vividribbon.ca

Email: chan.rin@vividribbon.ca

Phone: 780-266-5162

Facebook: www.facebook.com/vividribbon

Twitter: @vivid_ribbon

Instagram: @vividribbon
 

Karue Wachira

Company Name: Karue Wachira Photography

Website: www.karuewachiraphotography.com

Email Address: karuewachira@gmail.com

Phone: 306 830 0380

Facebook Page: Karue Wachira Photography

Twitter Handle: @Qarue

InFocus Photography Exhibition 2015

InFocus Photography Exhibition 2015

 

Mayor’s Celebration of the Arts PHOTOS & a BIG Thank-You from Alexis Marie Chute for the John Poole Promotion of the Arts Award, Edmonton

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Last night the Mayor’s Celebration of the Arts honoured local individuals and organizations that play a key role in Edmonton’s creative community.

ALEXIS MARIE CHUTE JOHN POOLE AWARD PROMOTION ARTS ARTIST WINNER blog

Congratulations to all the nominees and winners in all categories!

Mayor’s Award for Innovative Support by a Business for the Arts
Recognizing a local business that has invested in an arts organization, event, project or individual artist in the greater Edmonton area in a creative and original manner.
• WINNER: Happy Harbor Comics, nominated by Jeff Martin
• Print Machine, nominated by Common Ground Arts Society

MCA2015 ALEXIS MARIE CHUTE 005 happy harbor comics art blog

Mayor’s Award for Sustained Support of the Arts
Recognizing a business or an individual that has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to investing in Edmonton’s arts and culture industry through a specific arts organization, event, individual artist, or widespread investment in the arts.
• ATB Financial, nominated by the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra
• WINNER: Audreys Books, nominated by LitFest and the Alberta Book Fair Society
• Pardee Badyal, nominated by Marlaina Eldey

MCA2015 ALEXIS MARIE CHUTE 006 Audreys books art blog

John Poole Award for Promotion of the Arts
Recognizing an individual, arts organization, media organization or business that has promoted the arts in a distinctly creative or exceptional manner.
• WINNER: Alexis Marie Chute, nominated by Wes Lafortune
• What It Is Podcast, nominated by Maggie Baird

MCA2015 ALEXIS MARIE CHUTE 020 art blog Mayors Art Awards John Poole Promotion of the Arts edmonton

My selfie with Mayor Don Iveson

My selfie onstage with Mayor Don Iveson

ATB Financial Ambassador of the Arts Award
Recognizing a mid-career individual or organization successful on a national or international level, that enlightens audiences and promotes Edmonton’s rich cultural, performance or visual arts scene in an extraordinary way.
• Catalyst Theatre, nominated by Janine Andrews
• Chris Craddock, nominated by Trevor Schmidt
• WINNER: Rapid Fire Theatre, nominated by the Rapid Fire Theatre Board of Directors
• Tammy-Jo Mortensen, nominated by Jennifer Annesley

MCA2015 ALEXIS MARIE CHUTE 009 rapid fire theatre art blog

Youth Artist Award
Recognizing the importance of art and design to a youth’s education, and encouraging the development and education of young artists.
• Collective Conscience, nominated by Eagle Vision Music and Design Studio
• WINNER: Keiran MacDonald, nominated by Victoria School of the Arts

MCA2015 ALEXIS MARIE CHUTE 010 art blog

DIALOG Award for Excellence in Artistic Direction
Recognizing the outstanding achievement of an artistic leader in a specific arts discipline, actively leading and working in the greater Edmonton arts and culture sector.
• WINNER: Amy Shostak, nominated by Christopher Samuel
• Byron Trevor Martin, nominated by Brianne Jang
• John Hudson, nominated by Heidi Collins-McCann
• Steve Pirot, nominated by The Nextfest Arts Company
• Gabriela Jessome, nominated by Sara Hernandez Madden and Trevor Madden

MCA2015 ALEXIS MARIE CHUTE 011 Amy Shostak art blog

Mile Zero Dance Progressive Artist Award
Recognizing the achievements of Edmonton-based artists who actively work in the arts and engage with the community in challenging and exciting ways.
• Amy Shostak, nominated by Christopher Samuel
• Kelsie Acton, nominated by Brooke Leifso
• Chaka Zinyemba, nominated by Tinashe Mtshiya
• WINNER: Paul Freeman, nominated by the Nina Haggerty Centre for the Arts
• Jeannie Vandekerkhove, nominated by Daniela Masellis

MCA2015 ALEXIS MARIE CHUTE 013 Paul Freeman art blog

Northlands Award for an Emerging Artist
Recognizing Edmonton’s valued, upcoming professionals – artists who, in the early stages of their careers, demonstrate exceptional talent and accomplishments, as well as a unique artistic expression and commitment to the arts in the Edmonton region.
• Giselle Denis, nominated by Glori Meldrum
• Jake Hastey, nominated by Richelle Thoreson
• KazMega, nominated by Roya Yazdanmehr
• WINNER: Ahmed Knowmadic, nominated by Muna Saleh
• Nuela Charles, nominated by Andrew Miller
• Cayley Thomas, nominated by the International Day of Personal with Disabilities Planning Committee for Edmonton

MCA2015 ALEXIS MARIE CHUTE 014 Amhed art blog

Robert Kroetsch City of Edmonton Book Prize
Recognizing written work which deals with some aspect of the city of Edmonton: history, geography, current affairs, its arts or its people or is written by an Edmonton author.
• WINNER: Rudy Wiebe, Come Back, Penguin Random House Canada
• Tim Bowling, Circa Nineteen Hundred and Grief, Gaspereau Press
• Greg Bechtel, Boundary Problems, Freehand Books

MCA2015 ALEXIS MARIE CHUTE 015 Rudy Wiebe art blog

ATCO Gas Award for Outstanding Lifetime Achievement
Recognizing an individual who, over a minimum of 25 years, has made an outstanding contribution to the arts in Edmonton.
• After careful deliberation, the awards jury for the ATCO Gas Award for Outstanding Lifetime Achievement is honouring just one individual, a true Edmonton gem, a musical legend who has celebrated a wildly successful career here at home and around the world. Tommy Banks wins the 2015 ATCO Gas Award for Outstanding Lifetime Achievement!

MCA2015 ALEXIS MARIE CHUTE 016 Tommy banks art blog

Syncrude Award For Excellence in Arts Management
Recognizing individuals or organizations who have demonstrated innovation, leadership and vision in the management of a professional arts organization.
• Daniel Cournoyer, nominated by the Film and Visual Arts Society of Alberta
• Jesse Szymanski, nominated by Ron E. Scott
• Jill Roszell, nominated by Rose Ginther
• WINNER: Karen Brown-Fournell, nominated by Christine DeWitt
• Paul Matwychuk, nominated by NeWest Press

MCA2015 ALEXIS MARIE CHUTE 017 Karen Brown Fournell art blog 

TELUS Courage to Innovate Award
Recognizing an individual or organization that has displayed the courage to take artistic risks and embrace innovation in artistic expression, resulting in a unique and distinctive project.
• WINNER: Amber Borotsik, nominated by Ben Sures
• Ariane Mahryke Lemire, nominated by Chris Martin
• Chaka Zinyemba, nominated by Nonsikelelo Mathe
• The Cultural Association Folklorical Ballet Mexico Lindo of Alberta, nominated by Sara Hernandez Madden and Trevor Madden

MCA2015 ALEXIS MARIE CHUTE 018 Amber Borotsik art blog

If any of the winners would like high resolution images of the above, please email me  info@alexismariechute.com

The artwork on the screen is by Jason Carter. 

 

It was wonderful to receive the John Poole Promotion of the Arts Award. I do a lot of volunteering and advocacy work, but in particular I was nominated by Exposure Photography Festival for my role during the festival in Edmonton by promoting and exhibiting Edmonton and area photographers.

I want to give a BIG THANK YOU to Pace Edmonton, Mayor Iveson, John Poole, the selection jury, Wes Lafortune, all the 2015 InFocus Photographers, my AMAZING husband and creative partner Aaron Chute, my kids (Hannah, Zachary & Eden), and  my parents, family and friends.

“Behind every great woman there is a team of people holding her up.” – Alexis Marie Chute

To them, I offer my sincerest gratitude, today and always.  

 

MCA2015 ALEXIS MARIE CHUTE 004 LOGO blog

Celebrating with hubby Aaron Chute

 

 

PRESS RELEASE: Mayor Don Iveson awards Alexis Marie Chute the John Poole Award for Promotion of the Arts

Last night’s spirited Mayor’s Celebration of the Arts event at the Winspear recognized many talented artists and organizations for their contribution to our city. Alexis Marie Chute, up-and-coming artist, writer, photographer and arts advocate, was awarded the John Poole Promotion for the Arts award. The award recognizes the promotion of the arts in a distinctly creative or exceptional manner.

“The jury selected Alexis Marie Chute for this award because of the scope and depth of her work to promote Edmonton arts and artists to a wide audience here in our city and beyond,” said Mayor Don Iveson to the audience as he handed Chute her award, a Bronze sculpture by Edmonton artist Catherine Burgess.

Alexis Marie Chute was nominated by Wes Lafortune, the director of Exposure Photography Festival. It was just this February 2015 which saw the festival expand its territory to all of Alberta (previously only in Calgary, Banff and Canore). With this news, Chute conceived of an event called InFocus Edmonton, a group photography exhibition of Edmonton and area photographers. The exhibit shone the spotlight on local image-makers within the city. Chute curated the more than 200 submissions, creating an exhibit that celebrated thirty local photographers. She looked for the strongest visual images and the collection of individuals that were selected included well known photographers, professionals, amateurs, and students.

The reach of InFocus was significant. InFocus was celebrated across the province and Edmontonians respond very positively to the event, seen through their prolific promotion of the exhibit on Facebook, Twitter, event pages and blogs. InFocus become a community exhibition that many took tremendous pride in. In this way it set itself apart from other arts events because of this feeling of collaboration that Alexis Marie fostered.

Over 250 people visited InFocus at Harcourt House Artist Run Centre over its two-day run and Chute filled the gallery space with live music by local performer Mohsin Zaman. Chute was intentional in making InFocus an accessible event for all Edmontonians. It was free to visit the gallery, curator talk and reception. It was also important to the mission of InFocus that photographers gain all monies generated from their sales. No commissions were taken and Chute believes this encouraged and stimulated both purchasers in financial support for artists and also rewarded the creative vision and skill of the featured photographers.

At InFocus, Chute announced that it would become an annual exhibition in Edmonton. DC3 Art Projects, a new commercial gallery in Edmonton, had already signed up to showcase InFocus in 2016 for the entire run of Exposure during the month of February.

Alexis Marie Chute has received many distinctions for her creative work and, outside of InFocus, she volunteers on the board of the Canadian Author’s Association and mentors artists, writers, musicians and other individuals in creative fields within our city. PhotoLife Magazine named her an “Emerging Canadian Photographer,” she was the 2012/2013 Artist in Residence at Harcourt House Artist Run Centre, and Avenue Magazine named her a Top 40 Under 40. Chute is a tireless supporter of the arts in our city and shares her passion with her more than 17 thousand followers on Twitter and on her blog www.AlexisMarieArt.com.

 -30-

To book an interview contact: Alexis Marie Chute 780-499-4311 or

info@alexismariechute.com and visit www.AlexisMarieChute.com for more information

Curatory Work Shortlisted for Promotion of the Arts Award

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Curating InFocus photography exhibition was an awesome experience in and of itself, and so to be shortlisted for it in the John Poole Award for Promotion of the Arts is icing on the cake. The award is one of many given out at the Mayor’s Celebration of the Arts Awards hosted by the Professional Arts Coalition of Edmonton.

John Poole Award for Promotion of the Arts:

Recognizing an individual, arts organization, media organization or business that has promoted the arts in a distinctly creative or exceptional manner.

It is my pleasure to support the arts community in Edmonton. It is my community, my peer image-makers, artists, musicians, dancers, sculptors and other fellow creative individuals and organizations. I believe we will all flourish when we support and build each other up.

The inaugural InFocus exhibition, held during Exposure Photography Festival 2015, was a huge success! More than 200 people visited the show during its two-day run. Thirty photographers from Edmonton and area were promoted and their work championed for its artistic and technical skill. Most of the photographers were able to attend the opening and they shared their love of photography with all those who came to experience the show. The energy that surrounded the entire exhibition was tremendously positive, supportive and collaborative. Truly, we have much to be proud of.

I must acknowledge the tireless vision and execution assistance of my partner in InFocus: Aaron Chute. Without him, InFocus would not have been as technologically savvy or the artwork hung as precisely. Aaron, THANK YOU!

To those that nominated me for the John Poole Award for Promotion of the Arts, specifically Exposure Photography Festival manager Wes Lafortune and others, I wish to express my deep and heartfelt gratitude.

Attend the 28th Annual Mayor’s Celebration of the Arts, click here for tickets.

Exciting news with InFocus: Next year the exhibition will be held all month long in February at DC3 Art Projects. I’ll post more about InFocus 2016 and its call for submissions soon.

 

Come be Inspired by Photography at InFocus Edmonton – Exhibition starts Tomorrow!

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InFocus Edmonton starts tomorrow and you don’t want to miss it! The doors open at 10:00am on Saturday, February 21, followed by evening activities beginning at 6:30pm with the Curator Talk by yours truly. After that, at 7:00pm the opening party officially kicks off with wine and snacks. It will be a great time of mingling, creative conversations and, most importantly, amazing photography by some of Edmonton’s artistic gems. Later in the evening, Mohsin Zaman will grace us with his music. It is sure to be a very memorable night! Then Sunday, February 22, the gallery is open from 10:00am to 5:00pm.

InFocus Edmonton photographers:

Akemi Matsubuchi

Al Dixon

Alicia Proudfoot

Bethany MacCallum

Brady Simpson

Bri Vos

Candace Makowichuk

Chan Rin

Christine Rossi

Christopher Shaw

Colin Vince

Curtis Trent

Dan McKechnie

Darrin Hagen

Daryl Kozub

David Aaron

Dawn LeBlanc

Eric Petersen

Gerry Dotto

Hedy Bach

Jenn Hang

Jonathan Schell

Karue Wahchira

Kevin Tuong

Marc Chalifoux

Martin Snider

Nicolas Abarca

Robert Pohl

Tim Lutic

Wilfred Kozub

InFocus Edmonton YEG invitation Alexis Marie Chute Photography exhibit info

InFocus Edmonton:

Location:

Drawing Room, Annex Building,

Harcourt House Artist Run Centre

10211-112 Street, Edmonton, AB, CAN

Exhibit Hours:

Saturday, February 21, 2015, 10:00am – 10:00pm

Sunday, February 22, 2015, 10:00am – 5:00pm

Events:

Curator Talk – Saturday, February 21, 6:30pm

Opening Reception – Saturday, February 21, 7:00pm

Please click here to learn more about InFocus Edmonton and to RSVP to the opening.

Also, connect with InFocus on Twitter and also on Facebook.

We look forward to seeing you at InFocus!

 

InFocus Edmonton Musical Collaboration with Mohsin Zaman

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InFocus Edmonton is only four days away! The group photography exhibit will be an amazing presentation of the creativity and vision of Edmonton and area photographers and artists.

I am excited to announce that Mohsin Zaman will be playing his music at our opening reception Saturday night, February 21st. I love supporting local musicians. I believe collaboration across artistic disciplines benefits us all. Plus, I’m really excited to listen to some awesome music while looking at great art. Sounds like a perfect night.

Please join us!

Get to know Mohsin Zaman:

From the bustling streets of Dubai to the wintry turf of Edmonton, Mohsin Zaman is old hand at being a newcomer. With a voice haunted by heartbreak, curiosity and ever-bearing hope, he sings, writes, and performs with a wealth of skill and spirit far beyond his years. His album Waking Up charts his ambitious journey from the Middle East to Canada, narrating the romance, joy and nostalgia he witnessed through passing frames. Mohsin Zaman is a cherished performer and musician in the Edmonton Music scene; he bears a soul power and honesty that propels his audience into new space, changes the atmosphere of a room with a sole song, and inspires any and everyone in his path.

Preview his music on SoundCloud or check out Mohsin on Facebook.

Details of InFocus Edmonton:

Location:

Drawing Room, Annex Building,

Harcourt House Artist Run Centre

10211-112 Street, Edmonton, AB, CAN

Exhibit Hours:

Saturday, February 21, 2015, 10:00am – 10:00pm

Sunday, February 22, 2015, 10:00am – 5:00pm

Events:

Curator Talk – Saturday, February 21, 6:30pm

Opening Reception – Saturday, February 21, 7:00pm

Please click here to learn more about InFocus Edmonton and to RSVP to the opening.

Also, connect with InFocus on Twitter and also on Facebook.

We look forward to seeing you at InFocus!