ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – The Bonifas Arts Center’s current exhibit is showcasing the beauty of the Upper Peninsula and the talent of the photographers who capture it.
“[‘The U.P. Through My Lens’] exhibit is highlighting the best bright spots in the U.P., along with different images that speak to the artists of what their U.P. is,” explained Gallery Director Kate Oman. “We have everything from a shower beer to sunsets to northern lights to lighthouses, all sorts of different items that represent the U.P. to the artists.”
“The U.P. Through My Lens” is non-juried, meaning every photographer who submitted their work is part of the exhibit. Oman says for many of them, this is their first gallery experience.
“We have amateurs showing next to professionals,” she said. “It’s important because the amateurs get to learn from the professionals, so those amateurs get to grow. But it’s also nice for the professionals to see the up-and-coming talented in the area, because there are definitely a lot of shots that could take number one.”
With each artist able to submit up to three photos, there are 160 pieces on display—a far cry from the last photo competition the gallery hosted in 2021.
“Last time, we only had 44 entries,” Oman said. “Jumping to 160, I think people just love the U.P. so much and they wanted to be able to show off their favorite shots of the U.P.”
There are several recurring themes throughout the exhibit, with the most consistent being nature. Much of the photography highlights the incredible sights Upper Peninsula residents get to enjoy every day.
“The U.P. is photographed a lot because there’s such beauty and splendor,” said Oman. “Given where we’re located, we get a lot of those really cool colors that really pop, like the aurora borealis, along with the fall color changes. I think it’s just a special place to live, in the U.P.”
“The U.P. Through My Lens” exhibit is free to attend. Guests are encouraged to cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award. The winner will receive a one-year Bonifas membership.
The exhibit runs through February 22. Click here for more information about the Bonifas Arts Center.
