Magic in a click - Jamaica Photography Society to open exhibition November 25

The Jamaica Photography Society, spearheaded by Musgrave medallist and renowned Jamaican photographer Donnette Ingrid Zacca, is a passionate group of committed, young and vibrant photographers.

The society, which was founded in February 2017, is committed to nurturing, encouraging and supporting the art of photography in all its forms in Jamaica and developing camaraderie and a sense for aesthetic qualities and standards among all photographers involved.

Following a successful and thriving college photography group between 2013 and 2016, participants of the Photo Club, which started at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, demanded a greater platform for continued presentation and discourse after Zacca's tenure ended in 2015.

"It was only fitting to regroup with persons wishing to continue their practice in light of previous engagement and success," Zacca said.

She was willing to lead in an area she considered precious and to further effect the art of the photographic practices in Jamaica among the young, and even the older enthusiasts. The first meeting of the new group was convened in Zacca's backyard with members of the current executive.

The Jamaica Photography Society's activities included members' participation in a variety of social expositions such as the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission's (JCDC) annual competition and exhibition, The Liguanea Arts Festival, The Sanaa Studios Art Market and Group Exhibitions, 'Kingston on the Edge' annual exposition, and various presentations at rural high schools.

The society seeks to empower its members by encouraging the pursuit of an artist's aesthetic, introducing current global photographic trends, and offering entrepreneurship opportunities to all members.

"Since our inception, we have been supported by some Jamaican greats with the hope that their voices will help to determine new directions and help to influence our definitive styles," Zacca said.

LONG-TERM VISION

The society has welcomed Howard Moo Young, Franz Marzouca, Hugh Wright, Marina Burnel, Dr Michele Lee Lambert, Mark Samuels, Michael Elliott, Lesli-Ann Belnavis, Conrad Nicely, Kenrick Baksh (architecture student) and a representative from JAMCOPY, who have conducted presentations on different issues relating to the art form.

"Collaboration with other artistic entities wishing to attain similar goals is necessary to achieve our long-term vision. The ultimate objective of building our island's artistic expressions will be materialised over time only through unity of thought," Zacca said.

"We have therefore sought to join forces with the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission and the newly formed movement, Kingston Creative, in showcasing what is inherently ours. Our art, our music, our performances and good vibe are all worth celebrating in the warm company of others," she added.

The Jamaica Photography Society's exhibition, titled 'Celebrating Photography', will officially open on Sunday, November 25, and will go through until February 1.

According to Zacca, this exhibition was inspired by team member Ulrick Lawrence and his wife at the beginning of this year.

"It was the force we needed to confirm our abilities and now realise the dream. When JCDC afforded the society the opportunity of hosting the show at the conference centre, we were extremely happy," Zacca said.

"I wish to thank all our members and our current committee for their overwhelming support in making this exhibition happen. To all our older photographers, including Errol Harvey, Kent Reid, Peter Ferguson, Jeremy Francis, Tony Wong, your contribution to this nation is immeasurable. We appreciate your consent to exhibit your images among ours," Zacca added.