Larchmont Library Presents Exhibit by Local Photographers

A couple years ago, two mothers signed up for an online photography course to learn how to take better pictures of their kids, and now their work can been seen at the Larchmont Public Library. 

Stacey Vukelj and Justine Knight presented their exhibit, “City Streets and Other Loves,” to their friends, family and the community during a reception at the Oresman Gallery Saturday.

“It’s a collection of favorites,” said Vukelj.

The exhibition is a combination of urban and portrait photography. Vukelj’s son and Knight’s two daughters are artistically displayed throughout the gallery, but the primary body of work focuses on street scenes in and around New York City.

“We both like the challenge of street photography,” said Knight.

Knight is based in Larchmont and Vukelj in Manhattan, so both take advantage of having one of the biggest cities at their disposal. The exhibit portrays unique shots of well-known spots like Grand Central Terminal and Central Park as well as some candid moments the photographers had discovered throughout the city.

Vukelj said that one of her favorite parts of taking photos in the city is its anonymity and she tries to “find a way to portray that without making it feel cold.”

The gallery was filled with pensive expressions as guests enjoyed their refreshments and browsed the exhibit.

“To see the composition and contrast from the black and white to the color, the blur to the crystal clear, it’s amazing,” said attendee Damien Germino.

Many friends and family members attended Saturday’s reception to support Vukelj and Knight and see the display.

“Seeing everything up in print is amazing,” said Sarah Zalan, a friend and fellow photographer who flew in from Denver to see the exhibit.

The two artists said that their obsession grew together after they both enrolled in an online photography workshop. They became friends and continued to learn the tricks of the trade. As their interests grew beyond taking portraits of their kids, they started pointing their cameras at an urban setting.  Eventually they found an opportunity at the library and decided to put together “City Streets and Other Loves.”

“We have similar photographic inspirations,” said Knight. “I think our work is compatible.”

The Larchmont Public Library will continue to host the exhibit until Dec. 30.