PINTA ART FAIR 05/06/2013 The Modern & Contemporary Latin American Art Show

 “I'd rather want everything and have nothing, than have everything and want nothing. Because at least when you want something your life has a meaning: it's worthwhile. From the moment you think you have everything, you have to search for meaning in other things. I spent half my life wanting everything and having nothing; and now I have everything and I don't want anything”. Vik Muniz

Walking through the PINTA Art Fair was similar to drifting in between South America, Spain and Portugal. 

Implications of certain series of events occuring in these countries, were concealed in the displayed artworks.

Extraordinary artists illustrated all angles of their countries of origin, culture and social struggles that affect the population.

Brazilian photographers displayed particular pictures, documenting the less fortunate and disadvantaged  communities that are on the increase , with Spanish being spoken by the majority of attendees.

The ambience was gorged with energy and the entire  art on display seemed to echo this strong message:  “This is only the beginning and this is our time…. NOW! ”.

Isle Of Wight Photographic Society's 'Portrait Of The Year' Competition 3rd April 2013

“There is no real warfare between the artist & the documentary photographer,  
He has to be both”

With this phrase Dorothea Lange expresses all her fever and dedication to the art of photography.

This delightful artwork attached that we are viewing at the moment is made by Michael J Duke, a photographer and enthusiast of Lahd Gallery’s openings.

The ability of a photographer is to capture a particular emotion in a brief moment, this image , taken at Lahd Gallery’s vernissage “Suhair Sibai: Sweet Melancholy” on January the 10^th , is a demonstration of this unique flair.

The Isle of Wight Photographic Society is an association that encourages members to be more creative. Like all clubs, the WPS has a number of regular season competitions and towards the end of the season have various categories for whichever theme.

This year , J Duke decided to enter the image in the Isle Of Wight Photographic Society's 'Portrait Of The Year' Competition. The WPS is a non-profit making organisation whose aim is to help photographers in improving their talents .

Established in 1945, the Society is the oldest photographic club on the Island and is a well respected member of the Southern Region Photographic Federation. Members over the years have won awards in the Southern Region Finals and acceptances in National and International Exhibitions. 

The majority of images are more classical in their interpretation of portrait, and the quality of the WPS images is exceptional and far from cliché.

When the final results came through, this image gained THIRD PRIZE in the category! Well done Michael and Mystery girl with hat!