Holga photography is spotlighted at “Visions Through a Plastic Lens,” an exhibit now on display at the International Photography Hall of Fame & Museum, 2100 N.E. 52nd.
“Lens” features the work of photographer Lou Chapman, who uses a Holga camera to transport the viewer on a journey into a surreal world where reality is more reflected than accurately represented.
“The exhibit is a different method and a different take than what we have ever exhibited before,” said Katie Sutton, museum director.
PROCESS
A Holga camera is an inexpensive “toy” camera, originating in 1982 China, and later appreciated for its low-fidelity appearance. The Holga’s cheap construction and uncomplicated lens often yield pictures that display blur, light leaks and other distortions.
Ironically, the camera’s quality problems have become prized among some photographers, with Holga photos winning awards and competitions in news and art photography. The images are manipulated very little during printing, unveiling the true essence of the moment, rather than a practical representation.
Not only a skillful photographer, Chapman is also an accomplished newspaper reporter and a Pulitzer Prize nominee. His artistic work has appeared in individual and group shows, and has been juried into dozens of national and international exhibits.
Admission to the exhibit, running through July 6, is $9.50 for adults, $8.25 for children and seniors, and includes entrance to Science Museum Oklahoma.
For more information, call 424-4055 or visit their site.
“?Joanna Rus
This article appears in Apr 16-22, 2008.