"Whatever was Splendid: New American Photographs"

Walker Evans and the Great Depression, Part II

Comments (0) By Julia Ramey Thursday, Mar 11 2010

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The FotoFest Biennial is kind of like photography's Woodstock - a massive, multifaceted festival of human creativity (minus the mind-altering substances and the mud). This year's event, taking place at museums, galleries and gathering places across town, features curatorial symposiums, conversations with artists, workshops, lectures and, of course, a number of stellar exhibitions. The four principal exhibits are dedicated to contemporary U.S. photography; at today's opening bash at FotoFest headquarters, the exhibition "Whatever Was Splendid: New American Photographs"will be on display. The show explores the significant legacy of Walker Evans, known for his stark portraits of life during the Great Depression. "The striking similarities between Evans's time and our own have become all too clear," says curator Aaron Schuman, who's collected photos by Will Steacy, Tema Stauffer and Jane Tam, among others. But don't get too mired in talk of recession and hard times - FotoFest is a celebration, after all, and there'll be plenty of more-uplifting images included in the event. Today's opening reception is 8 p.m. to midnight. Regular viewing hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Through April 25. 1113 Vine St. Many other FotoFest exhibits, classes and lectures are being held at locations throughout the city. For a full schedule, call 713-223-5522 or visit www.fotofest.org. Free.
Fri., March 12, 2010