‘Unscripted’ features local photographers
Published 2:57 pm Tuesday, July 29, 2014
By MOLLY DAVIDSON / Staff Writer
HELENA—Gretchen B. Photography in Helena is hosting the gallery’s annual “Unscripted” photography exhibition on Aug. 3 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
The exhibition features work from local artists Ron Clemmons, Brenda Miller and Carl DelFavero and from gallery owner Gretchen Birdwell.
“I started Unscripted two years ago to give (local photographers) a place to show their work,” Birdwell said
Birdwell is personally acquainted with each of the featured artists. She met Clemmons and Miller through the Hoover-based Shades Valley Camera Club and DelFavero through his involvement with Samford After Sundown.
Co-owner of Pelham photography studio, A-Square Photography, DelFavero gained his experience while working as a photojournalist in Sweden in 1978 and he specializes in nature photography, Birdwell explained.
“I suspect we’ll see some animals that aren’t from around here,” Birdwell said, noting DelFavero’s extensive travels.
Clemmons is also a well-traveled photographer. His work focuses on architecture and urban subjects from Australia to Birmingham, Birdwell said.
“(Clemmons) is very strong in his architectural photography,” Birdwell said. “He is very interested in form… everything his is exhibiting is going to be in black and white.”
The pieces Miller will be displaying at the exhibition are inspired by her love of cycling and each piece involves a bicycle, Birdwell explained, adding some of the images are “in abstract.”
“(Miller) shoots in series,” Birdwell said. “She takes the time to find subjects to create similar pictures to create a series.”
In addition to the three featured artists, Birdwell’s own portraits and part of her “permanent collection” of shots of North Carolina beaches will be displayed as well.
“I have a little bit of everything,” Birdwell said of her portraits of diverse subjects, from children to brides.
The exhibition will take place at the Gretchen B. Photography gallery, located at 4300 Helena Road. All of the displayed art is available for purchase, and each artist will be on hand to answer any questions.
“The artists will be here,” Birdwell said. “(Attendees) can meet the artists.”