Photography is inseparable from our perception of reality. Although we are savvy to the tricks and tall tales a camera is capable of, our immediate response is to recognize a photograph as transparent depiction of the real world. Thus, photography becomes a powerful tool for conveying facts, and especially useful in inspiring public reaction and response.

The survey of images presented in this third installation of the What We’re Collecting Now exhibition series underscores the sense of urgency in contemporary photographs to address critical issues. The photographs exemplify a number of reasons for affecting the viewer, achieved through different approaches to an intangible subject. Artfully merging journalism, voyeurism, and a fine-art sensibility, the featured photographers illustrate a range of tendencies within contemporary socially conscious image-making. Grouping this politically charged imagery, the exhibition illustrates the informative and transformative power of the photographic medium. Read More…

Stefanie Petrilli
Ola Dlugosz