about the show
The West Nebraska Arts Center, with the support of the Nebraska Arts Council, the Nebraska Cultural Endowment, the National Endowment for the Arts, is pleased to present our annual IMAGE Show. The opening reception will be Thursday, January 30th at 5pm – 7pm. We would also like to thank Laura Clark for sponsoring this show in the loving memory of Bill Clark.
This is a judged group show that was open to the public. Steve Frederick was our judge this year. Steve Frederick of Scottsbluff is a retired journalist and former editor of the Star-Herald. During his 42-year professional career he spent much of his time taking, selecting, and editing newspaper images. He continues to enjoy landscape and wildlife photography.
“My evaluation of an image begins with impact. Is it immediately engaging? Is it clear why and how the photographer chose to capture the subject? Does further examination reveal a story about the photographer’s intent? Great photos rarely just happen. They’re usually the reward for anticipation, preparation, imagination, patience and timing. They reveal technical choices made by the photographer about what lenses to use, where to focus, how depth of field leads the viewer’s eye and quality of light that, once determined, free him or her to turn attention to matters of composition, creativity and originality that distinguish art from snapshots. They’re captured in the best light available, at a decisive moment, from a viewpoint that optimizes color, and contrast includes essential elements and omits clutter. They’re edited subtly in a way that enhances the photographer’s intent. At their best, they convey the emotion, mood and experience of a moment in time from the creator to the viewer,” said Frederick.
There are three different divisions this year: professional, adult and youth. It was open to all photographic styles and techniques. Our 43rd Annual Image show is free and open to the public. Celebrate with us as we admire the talent in the valley.
We are pleased to present the winners. Congratulations to the winners. Thank you to all who participated this year! This is a spectacular show for all to see.
Professional Best of Show: Kimberly Sharples of Kimball, NE with Sacred Wisdom
Adult Honorable Mention: Bill Peters of Gering, NE with Glide & Rick Myers of Gering, NE with Stink Eye
Adult Division Best of Show: Paul Snyder of Scottsbluff with North American River Otter
Adult Honorable Menton: April E. Casey of Hemingford, NE with Joe & Doris Holloway of Scottsbluff with Dragonfly
Youth Division Best of Show: Gabriella Sharples of Kimball, NE with I Have My Eye On You
Youth Honorable Mention: Gabriella Sharples of Kimball, NE with Bandit & Bailey Keller of Scottsbluff, NE with Pollinator
Jim Downey Award: Patrick Reece of Gering, NE with Dome Rock
Best Manipulated Photo: Kimberly Sharples of Kimball, NE with Tail Wind
The Michael Javoronok Award: April Casey of Hemingford, NE with Dewdrops
The IMAGE Photography Exhibit will be on display at the West Nebraska Arts Center January 30 – February 23, 2025. We have classes open for students in 1st – 12th grade. Sign up today! We also have Yoga Classes on Monday nights at 6:30 and Friday morning at 9am. It is $12 per class. Our summer classes are right around the corner. Make sure you stay tuned for more class opportunities!
special thanks
A special thanks to volunteers Vicki Schmitt, Karen Mecklem, Mary Hunt, Rod Clause, Kathy Edwards and Laura Clark for their assistance in the gallery. And thank you to the West Nebraska Arts Center Board Members for providing food for the opening reception.
about WNAC
The West Nebraska Arts Center is a 501c3 cultural non-profit organization committed to education, awareness and excellence in the arts, serving the North Platte Valley Region. WNAC is located at the corner of 1st Avenue and 18th Street in Scottsbluff, NE. Visit the gallery free of charge Tuesday through Friday 10 to 5, Weekends from 1 to 5. You can also visit our website for upcoming attractions at www.thewnac.com. Also, find us on Facebook.
show your support
WNAC is supported by local businesses and individuals who value having the Arts Center in our community. Do you support WNAC with an annual membership gift? If not, please consider joining our efforts. Members of West Nebraska Arts Center receive first notification of our events. Members also receive gallery postcards, a monthly newsletter, discounts gallery and gift shop purchases as well as classes, workshops, fundraiser tickets, and other special events. You will also receive the WNAC newsletter and invitations to special events. Activate or renew your membership online at www.thewnac.com, by visiting the Arts Center office, or call 308-632-2226.
