Photography on display at Pound Ridge Library

“Cactus,” by Martin Kienzle, is one of the works from The Ground Glass photographers that will be displayed from July 18 through Sept. 12 at the Pound Ridge Library.

By NEAL RENTZ

The Ground Glass photographers’ group, with members from Westchester and Fairfield counties, has been in existence for 51 years and is still going strong,

“The strength and success of The Ground Glass are rooted in the talent and dedication of its members,” organization member Arnie Kastenbaum of Mamaroneck said recently. “While our photographic interests are diverse, we share a deep commitment to the craft of photography and to helping one another refine individual artistic vision.” 

Kastenbaum coordinated the Rye-based group’s current exhibition at the Pound Ridge Library.

Photographs taken by four members will be on display from Saturday, July 18, through Sept. 12 at the library, 271 Westchester Ave. The exhibit opening is scheduled for 2 to 3 p.m. July 18.

The participating photographers are Martin Kienzle, whose photos focus on botanicals; Mitch Achiron, focusing on New York City street life in the 1970s; Markus Peters, with photos of what he called “Thresholds;” and Eric Graig, whose photos are described as “Recent Abstractions.” 

Kastenbaum said the Pound Ridge Library “is a beautiful space to showcase the work of our members.” The group has at least one exhibition per year, he noted.

“The Ground Glass takes its name from the translucent glass used in traditional view cameras, where photographers carefully compose and focus each image before making an exposure,” Kastenbaum said. “More than a piece of photographic equipment, the ground glass represents patience, thoughtful observation, and the pursuit of artistic vision, qualities that continue to inspire our members today.”

The Ground Glass describes itself as “an independent association dedicated to promoting the practice and appreciation of fine art photography” in Westchester and Fairfield County, Conn. For more than half a century, the organization has formed what it has described as “a vibrant community of artists dedicated to both the craft and the creative exploration of photography.” The group is in residence at the Rye Arts Center and provides a forum for education, and collaboration.

Peters, who resides in Rye, said he has been a Ground Glass member for a year. The photos he chose for the exhibit were taken between 1994 and this year, he noted.

“Whether it’s an image of a landscape, a portrait or an urban back lot, I find myself returning over and over to moments of visual stillness, when light settles, and the world briefly reveals an unexpected resonance,” he said.

Peters uses a variety of cameras including 35 mm and medium-format film cameras, digital Canon R6 and Fujifilm, as well as his iPhone occasionally.

Peters explained what he meant by thresholds in regard to his photos in the upcoming exhibit.  

“I’m using the word thresholds to mean boundaries,” he said. “Thresholds is a series of observations of physical and psychological boundaries, or edges, between light and dark, sky and ground, or between the familiar and the unrecognizable.” 

For regular gallery hours, check the Pound Ridge Library website, poundridge.librarycalendar.com. The Ground Glass website address is www.thegroundglass.org.