Eleven second-year photography/videography students emerge from the walls of the New Brunswick College of Craft and Design to exhibit new work as part of The View Finders photography exhibition at the Charlotte Street Art Centre on May 2, 2024.
Calvin Aranas, Connor Beers, Curtis Brewster, Alex Bustard, Andressa Cutini, Or David, Bella Doherty, Germán García, Fabián Otero, Cori Swan, and Eryn Trevors are the names behind the works, featuring individual perspectives through a variety of photographic media on display in the Charlotte Glencross Gallery and Penny Gallery at the Charlotte Street Arts Centre.
The title of the exhibition is a play on the word viewfinder, a small window on every camera that helps a photographer compose their view, their perspective, and ideas. The theme of this exhibition is the unique point of view that each photographer has developed and continues to explore.
Some techniques in this exhibition date back to the invention of photography in the mid-1800s, while others use modern technology. Throughout the year, photographers could be seen on campus and in other parts of our great country, and province, using a variety of cameras: large format (4”x5” sheet film), medium format (120 roll film), 35mm, digital cameras, and Polaroid. In this exhibition they’re exploring nature photography, landscapes, New Brunswick, still-life, fine art portraits, fashion, and more to tell stories as complex as life itself.
When they started their journey together in the fall of 2022, four of the eleven students arrived from Colombia, Philippines, Brazil, and Mexico, bringing unique experiences and perspectives. Two years later, many have had work published, created thematic series, explored techniques, been guest speakers at Photo Fredericton, been in group exhibitions, and many have created solo exhibitions at NBCCD. Now, they’re ready to meet the public.
“This is an extraordinary group of visual creators” said photography instructor, Karen Ruet.
“What they have been able to accomplish during the past two years at the college is remarkable. They love film and alternative processes and they’re fearless creators, keen to experiment and innovate. I’m so proud that they are emerging artists now, each with their own voice and distinctive style. The students helped each other get to where they are now. They are an incredible, generous, and supportive group of individuals. I can’t wait to share the power of their work with Fredericton.”
The View Finders Photography Exhibition opens on May 2, 2024, from 4:30 to 6 pm and runs until June 17. The exhibition is free and open to everyone.
The Charlotte Street Arts Centre is located at 732 Charlotte Street in beautiful downtown Fredericton and is open Monday to Friday from 9 am – 8 pm and Saturdays from 10 am – 5pm.