Current Art Show

Jill Freedman Photography Exhibition – “FANG”

August 16 – September 14

Opening Reception: Saturday, August 23, 4-8 p.m.

I wish I were more like a dog, but I’m working on it. – Jill Freedman

Jill Freedman’s fondness for animals is at the heart of Chroma Fine Art Gallery’s newest exhibition, Fang, which features 39 original photographs of animals from Freedman’s archives together for the first time. The exhibition runs from August 16 through September 14. On August 23 from 4:00-8:00pm an opening reception will be held, which is free and open to the public (four-legged or otherwise).

“Dogs are our oldest friends.” Freedman claimed, and life was “much more fun with a dog around.” In fact, Freedman credits her first dog, Fang, for teaching her to see. She had just started taking pictures when Fang entered her life. “We had wonderful adventures, and seeing the world through his eyes made everything new and strange and exciting. He had a great sense of humor and a big grin.”

“Jill was a brilliant photographer. The kind you learn about in school,” says Rita Baunok who curated this exhibition. Freedman’s impact as an important photojournalist has been well-documented; her iconic images have left an indelible mark on the American psyche. But Baunok yearned to shine a light on some lesser-known gems from Freedman’s oeuvre. “When I viewed her archives, the number of animal photographs hit me immediately. I never saw a show of hers that focused on her animal pictures. I thought, why not? Let’s do it.” Baunok selected the highest-quality, vintage gelatin silver prints developed in the darkroom by Freedman’s own hand. As a professional photographer and dark-room printer herself, Baunok appreciates the technical craft of photography. “These are gorgeous, museum-quality prints.”

Baunok recalls that Freedman could sometimes be aloof around people; but she adored animals and they loved her back. “You can feel that in every frame.” Named in honor of Freedman’s beloved Fang, this exhibition features touching and cheeky photographs of dogs as well as cats, horses, chickens, and even donkeys! The images on display showcase authentic, loyal, fun-loving animals with big personalities. As Freedman’s cousin, Wendy Wernick, points out, these are not formal, immaculate portraits. The animal subjects have “personality, free-spirits, and tender hearts.” That unique verve is what makes this show so special. Go ahead and see for yourself.

Artist:
Jill Freedman