BG Art Council’s ‘Perspective’ frames abilities of native photographers – BG Independent News

By ROBIN STANTON GERROW

BG Independent News

With topics starting from self-portraits to unique locales, the Bowling Green Art Council’s (BGAC) third annual “Perspective: Photographers of NW Ohio” exhibition opened Saturday.

The exhibit might be on show by April 3 on the BGAC ArtArea, 178 S. Main Street, behind Coyote Beads and Jewelry.

The Best of Show juried award went to Kelly Chalfant of Perrysburg for “Centered.” Last 12 months, Chalfant received the People’s Choice Award.

“The Naples Pier has always been one of my favorite subjects,” Chalfant stated. “It suffered catastrophic damage during Hurricane Ian in September 2022. The pier has now been torn down to make way for its replacement. That photo will forever preserve the pier as it was for decades. I am thrilled that the image resonated with the jury. To have it selected as the Best of Show winner, among so many talented artists, is incredibly meaningful.”

This 12 months, Alex Hann of Bowling Green obtained the People’s Choice Award for his piece titled “Hide and Seek” of a bison in Kentucky.

“I’m just getting into sharing my photography and really just trying to figure out which direction I’m going to go with it,” he stated. “I’m local and the Arts Council is supporting us, so I’m going to support them.”

As a daily entrant to the present, photographer Gary Leung stated he appreciates having an opportunity to show his work outdoors of one-day occasions.

“There’s not a lot of places, at least for me anyway, to display my photography,” Leung stated. “I participate in some art shows, but there’s no guarantee they will accept my application. And this is more of a chance for me to showcase my work to the local art community without the pressure and the stress of setting up for an outdoor show.”

Louis Staeble’s pictures have been featured in magazines and galleries across the nation, however he stated he nonetheless seems to be ahead to this occasion.

“I want to do something local, and this is an ideal place to do it,” Staeble stated. “I’ve got a lot of friends in town, and it’s my way of showing them what’s new. And this is nice because it’s not that cheeky kind of a gallery. This is laid back.”

Other photographers with work on show are Richard W. Davis, Matthew Donahue, Bella Karlovec, Natalie Karlovec, and Katie Schetter.

“It’s a small show, but it’s a really great show,” stated Mary Dennis, president of the BGAC. “The work is amazing, and I’m thrilled. So many great pieces, and I just love that we’re able to keep this photography show going.”

Chris and Jean Geist braved the weather to attend the opening reception to lend assist to the humanities.

“I love photography, and this is one of the few dedicated photo exhibits in town,” he stated. “We like to support the Arts Council, and it is always important to get to the openings when we can.”