Do you have a favorite photo or two that you have taken that you would like to share with the public? The Wilton Arts Council is seeking photographers of all ages to enter its 24th annual photography exhibit, “FOCUS ’24,” to be held from March 23 through April 26, at the Wilton Library. There are three divisions: Adult (professional and amateur combined), High School Student (grades 9-12) and Youth (pre-elementary through Grade 8).
Photographers are allowed to enter up to two of their photos, which may be film or digital images in color or black and white, and may be enhanced by darkroom or digital techniques, but additional objects not photographed by the photographer cannot be added. This year, to encourage participation in the high school and youth divisions, the first entry fee for each participant in the high school and youth divisions is free of charge courtesy of the Wilton Kiwanis Foundation.
FOCUS ’24 entries will be judged by a panel of notable area photographers in each of the three divisions. Awards include “Best of Show” (which is open to all) and first, second and third place in each of the three divisions. Ribbons will also be presented for honorable mention in each category.
To enter photos in FOCUS ‘24, photographers may drop off their work at the Wilton Library on Friday, March 15, from 12-5 p.m. and on Saturday, March 16, from 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Entry dimensions must be at least 8 inches by 10 inches framed and wired for hanging; there is no limit as to maximum size.
A reception and awards ceremony will be held on Friday, April 5, from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Wilton Library and is open to the public. Photos will be for sale throughout the exhibit unless otherwise designated, and the Wilton Library will receive a 20% commission on the sale price of each photograph sold.
Sponsors for FOCUS ’24 are Beardsley Traveling Art Framer in Wilton, Milford Photo in Milford, and Rockwell Art and Framing in Wilton, Westport, and New Canaan. Some sponsors are offering discounts on framing or enlargements to entrants in preparing their entries for FOCUS ‘24; sponsors should be contacted for information about relevant discounts.
Judges for the photos are Loryne Atoui, photographer, designer and FOCUS ’23 Best of Show recipient; David Pressler, artist, designer and photographer; and Jeffrey Price, gallerist and historian of photography and graphic art. Should the number of photos submitted exceed the exhibit space, one or more judges may screen the photos prior to hanging to choose those that will be exhibited.
Further details, entry forms and fee information for FOCUS ’24 can be found on the Wilton Arts Council website. Entry forms are also available at FOCUS ’24 sponsor locations, Wilton Library and select other locations. For questions about FOCUS ’24, email Beth Schneider, FOCUS ’24 Chair or call 203.834.9986.