Juror's Statement:

To quote from Poetic Grace,”water carries mystery, reflects back a life, can be a million jewels of dewdrops, brightens the dullest subject, can be the most powerful force, and yet gently causes reverie while gazing upon it soft sensuality.”  As a juror I found all this among the many beautiful images submitted but I went looking to see what else it is and often discovered less would have been more.  Many images made it to the near final edit but those technically executed, well composed, collaged with intent, seen in the right light, or that challenged an idea made it to the final cut. During the jury process I held a piece of Matt board to my screen to view strong image portions where the whole just missed. Conscious photographers carefully saw the edges or layers within the frame and submitted those images. With so many strong contenders, it was heartbreaking to make choices where minutia made the difference.  I congratulate the winners for your visually savvy eyes and ideas. Please do not be discouraged if your image did not make this exhibition. Be challenged to seek the mystery found between ordinary and extraordinary as you discover your less is more.  It was an honor to view so much creativity.

Elizabeth Opalenik - Oakland, CA - January 2019