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Art show: black and white and hung all over

Cathy Dobson The Sarnia Photographic Club – one of the largest in southern Ontario – has mounted its biggest show in recent memory.
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A Sarnia Photographic Club exhibition called “Black and White Photography” is on this month at the Lawrence House. Pictured here is club vice president Christine Roenspiess. Glenn Ogilvie

Cathy Dobson

The Sarnia Photographic Club – one of the largest in southern Ontario – has mounted its biggest show in recent memory.

All are welcome to attend the opening reception of the “Black and White Show” at the Lawrence House Centre for the Arts on Friday.

The texture and moodiness that permeate black and white photography attracted 42 submissions, says club vice president Christine Roenspiess.

“That’s more than usual. Our members really embraced this black and white theme,” she said.  “The quality and the range of subjects are incredible.”

With 120 members, the Sarnia Photographic Club is not only one of the largest in the region, it was founded in 1952 and is one of the oldest.

“People join and then they stay,” said Roenspiess. “Sarnia is such a beautiful place to photograph. We have a very active club.”

Between 80 and 100 members meet the first Tuesday of the month for presentations and competitions. The club also has mid-month meetings as well as small discussion groups, field trips and club outings. For details, visit www.sarniaphotoclub.com.

The Black and White Photography Show, on now through April 24, is the community’s only opportunity this year to see an exhibition of the club’s work.

The opening coincides with downtown’s First Friday cultural walkabout and will give the public a chance to meet members of the club at The Lawrence House and ask about club activities.

“You can see from the photos in the show that people really enjoyed working in black and white,” said Roenspiess.

As member Wes Terryberry put it, a good photo has an interesting subject that is well composed and well lit.

“Without the added distraction of colour, these basic qualities are often easier to appreciate and become more pronounced,” he said.

Photos are available for sale and range in price from $50 to $960.  Some are framed; others are on stretch canvass or are glass mounted.  Unframed prints are also available.

The club’s photos occupy the entire main floor of the historic art centre.

IF YOU GO:

WHAT: The Black and White Photography Show and Sale by the Sarnia Photographic Club.

WHERE: Lawrence House Centre for the Arts, corner of Christina and Wellington. Open Wed. to Fri. 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sat. and Sun. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

WHEN: April 1 – 24. Opening reception First Friday April 10; 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Do you have an idea about Sarnia’s cultural scene that you think should be featured?  Contact Cathy Dobson at 226-932-0985 or [email protected].


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