36 impressive panoramic prints will be showcased during Colorama, the final exhibit at Southampton Arts Center of the 2016 season. Organized by the George Eastman Museum, the show will open on Friday, November 11th.
“Each Colorama in the exhibition so beautifully represents a time of great optimism, purity, and joy,” shared Director of Programs, Amy Kirwin. “We can’t think of a better compilation of work to close out 2016 at Southampton Arts Center.”
In the 50s, the Eastman Kodak Company installed the premiere Colorama at Grand Central Station – a project that required more than a mile of cold-cathode tubes in order to light the photographs from behind, and in total the collection boasted more than 500 photos. Notable photographers were included in this massive project, including Ansel Adams, Ernst Haas, and Eliot Porter. Reflecting American values and aspirations, these photos have encouraged viewers since the 90s to enjoy and appreciate these works of art which feature aspects of leisure, travel, family and social life, essential part of our lives. The Kodak Company praised these panoramic photos as “the world’s largest photographs,” reaching 18 feet high and 60 feet long.
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Jim Pond (American, active ca. 1960). Family in convertible somewhere in Texas, 1968. © Kodak |
Over the many changes in American culture and society, the photographs have provided a steady vision of our perfect, idealized landscapes, villages, and families. Not only the physical aspects of our nation, but the power and patriotism, along with sentimentalism associated with babies, puppies, and kittens. The photos have a certain power and ability to reach into the viewer and touch each person individually. Each photo has its own importance in securing special events in our memories and providing a sense of nostalgia for the times that have passed. With the use of photography and film, peace and hope is elicited with the ability to capture these fleeting moments in time.
“We feel confident that every visitor will leave with a smile on their face,” added Kirwin.
An opening reception will be held on Saturday, November 12th from 4 to 6 pm with refreshments provided by the Southampton Social Club. The notable panoramic collection will be on display until Saturday, December 31st, 2016, the close of the year.
Southampton Arts Center is located at 25 Jobs Lane in Southampton. For more information, call 631-283-0967 or visit southamptonartscenter.org.
