The Cortland Foundation in Thomas is thrilled to announce the launch of its annual photography contest, inviting talented photographers from all backgrounds to showcase their creativity and vision.
The photography contest aims to celebrate the beauty of life and the resilience of the human spirit through captivating images. The theme chosen for this year’s competition is “Changes.” Fourteen winners will be selected by esteemed judge, Frank Ceravalo, a prominent West Virginia photographer based in Martinsburg. Selected photographs will be transformed into stunning 45 x 30-inch prints and prominently displayed in the Cortland Rehab wing for one year, offering inspiration and joy to residents, staff and visitors alike.
“After a challenging period, we believe in the power of art to uplift and inspire,” says Crystal Boone, foundation director. “Through this photography contest, we hope to foster creativity, community, and connection, while also supporting the vital work of the Cortland Foundation.”
In addition to large-scale prints, a concentrated display area will be added to the Pendleton Lounge situated in the Blackwater Short-Term Rehab Center common area. The gallery will include 22 feet of wall space and showcase different sizes and orientations to allow for even more local images and regional talent to be on display. There is no specified number of images to be selected and the gallery will be curated by this year’s contest judge and the Cortland Foundation.
Following the one-year exhibition period, the prints will be offered for sale with all proceeds benefiting the Cortland Foundation’s mission to enhance the quality of life for residents and support essential programs and services.
Photographers interested in participating are invited to submit their images through the Cortland Acres website at http://blackwater.cortlandacres.org/. Submissions will be accepted through May 31. Participants are encouraged to review the contest rules and guidelines available on the website. Questions may be directed to David Johnston at dsjohnstonWV@gmail.com. Photographers of the winning images will be notified by mid-July. Unveiling of the exhibition will occur during the ARTober Fest Oct. 4 – 6 at Timberline Resort.
Ceravalo chose the theme “Changes” with hope of seeing images that reflect transitions, movement, contrasts or evolutions. The full description for the theme is located within the rules and guidelines on the Cortland Acres website.
Ceravalo’ s passion for photography and keen eye for detail will undoubtedly enrich the judging process. All photographs submitted will be judged on criteria such as creativity, composition, technical proficiency and adherence to the contest theme. His expertise will play a pivotal role in selecting the winning photographs.
“We are excited to see the diverse perspectives and stories captured through the lens of talented photographers,” adds Boone. “Together, we can create a gallery of beauty and inspiration that celebrates the human experience.”
