PRESSURE Under Grace — Photography Exhibit (M-F, 10am – 4pm, NOW through July 15)
Mon 06.21.21 - Thu 07.15.21
- This event has passed.
If the theme “grace under pressure” feels familiar, the idea of “pressure under grace” is more intriguing. Perhaps you have experienced this when, in a moment of challenge or despair, you were strengthened or encouraged by an unexpected glimpse of grace.
Consider these things.
The environments we live in are under pressure, and yet radical grace abounds in the natural world that lies above and around us. We see it in the palpable light that radiates on the horizon as the sun sets; in the rustling leaves of grand oaks and birches; in the tenacious dandelions that push through sidewalk cracks. These beckon our notice. They remind us that beauty persists in God’s strained and glorious creation. That’s the power of nature photography.
In our cities, on our streets, on boats arriving to U.S. shores, and on roadways crossing borders, this same beauty persists in the souls of women, men, and children. Their daily burdens may be unknown to us, but in unguarded glances and postures, we witness humanity braced and brimming with grace. What thoughts lie behind the eyes of the man in the broken mirror? What secret is the young girl withholding? What is that young man pondering? Is he as tough as he appears? What do his eyes reveal? That’s the power of documentary photography.
This exhibit illuminates the evidence of grace in nature and humanity under pressure. Photographers Barry Sherbeck and Asher Imtiaz bring a contrasting, yet complementary aesthetic to their art. As they labor to capture the integrity of their subjects, both artists ably employ visio divina (sacred seeing) and lectio divina (sacred listening). These kernels of profound truth—light, laughter, tears, and shadows—illuminate their work.
Daytime Schedule and Evening Receptions
Daytime Hours
PRESSURE Under Grace will be open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday, June 21 through July 15. You will be asked to sign in when you arrive.
Evening Receptions
We are hosting individual receptions for Barry Sherbeck and Asher Imtiaz, at which the photographers will speak about their work. Asher’s reception precedes his formal presentation at Upper House on July 15. Please register and join us for thoughtful conversation. Light refreshments will be served.
Reception with Barry Sherbeck
Thursday
July 8, 4:00 – 6:00 PM
Register here
Reception with Asher Imtiaz
Thursday
July 15, 5:30 – 6:30 PM (followed by his presentation at Upper House)
Register here
About the Artists
Barry Sherbeck is a visual artist, photographer, filmmaker, writer, and curator, based in Madison, WI. He grew up overseas and has lived and traveled almost half his life in the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. He has worked in visual media communications for 35 years. He currently works as a visual arts freelancer, participates in the local Madison art gallery community, and works with a team to curate the active gallery at Christ Presbyterian Church. You can find more of Barry’s work on his website.
Asher Imtiaz is a documentary photographer whose intimate portraits capture the experience of immigrants (mainly refugees and asylum seekers) moving to the United States. Born and raised in Pakistan, Asher moved to the United States in 2012. He currently resides in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he works for a multinational technology company and helps lead international student outreach at his church. He began his journey as a photographer focusing on religious and minority groups in Pakistan. You can find more of Asher’s work on his website.