for whatever we lose (like a you or a me)
it's always ourselves we find in the
sea e.
e. cummings
April 13 - June 1, 2003 Life by the sea is
explored in OMA's first photography exhibition.
"By the Sea offers the chance to witness the
beauty, mystery and magic of the sea through the
eyes of fine-art photographers, who -- like many of
us -- live, work, play, and often obtain their
inspirations from the water," states exhibition
curator, Michael C.
Gross. "Emerging from the foam and developing
into a society, the profound relationship between
man and the sea that was once confined to food and
commerce has become spiritual, recreational, and
commercial."
Joel Meyerowitz'
internationally famous color images capture the
unique beauty of that point where the sea meets the
sky. Norman Mailer describes Meyerowitz' work as
"an ongoing quest for the instant when nature can
reveal itself through mood, light, mist, or the
endless vortices of water in its dialogue with
sand."
Lee Peterson explores life, light, and
ingenious abstractions beneath the surface rarely
photographed in black and white. As Lee sees it,
"The textures and shapes are plentiful and the
contrast and range of light can't be found on dry
land."
The Museum of Photographic Arts has provided
images from their permanent collection. "From Coney
Island to Muscle Beach, from Atlantic City to Santa
Monica, this group reflects the work of
photographers from both coasts (focusing on San
Diego)," says Gross, "all of whom include the
particular attitude and lifestyle of those of us
who prefer -- no, need -- to be at water's
edge."
