Prize Winning Photographer's focus on hot Latin American Summer
Published on 14 December 2021
Prize winning photographer Karina Laird is turning up the heat at Frankston Arts Centre with her exhibition capturing a Latin American summer.
Ms Laird’s exhibition is titled Su Alma (Their Soul) and captures a sizzling Latin American Summer in 2019. Exploring Mexico and Cuba, Su Alma illustrates the vibrant soul of these two countries and documents the beautiful street life that radiates through its people, art, colour and architecture.
Frankston City Council Mayor Nathan Conroy said Ms Laird won Frankston Arts Centre’s Open Exhibition prize in 2019 with her striking photograph titled Peluquera.
Mayor Conroy said: “Karina’s prize included $1000, an exhibition at the Frankston Arts Centre and opening event, which was delayed due to the lockdowns caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“All great artists have to start somewhere and I think this is a great place to start. This exhibition is about helping talented artists take that next step to exhibit and possibly sell their work in a professional gallery space.”
Deputy Mayor Suzette Tayler said it is wonderful to see Ms Laird’s images now on display for the Su Alma (Their Soul) exhibition, adding: “Council is committed to our arts community with grants and commissions to inspire, nurture and energise our creatives.
“Council has continued its commitment to support COVID 19 recovery initiatives as part of its $9.128 million Recovery Package and is proud to support local artists to create work that contributes to our vibrancy, culture and community.
“Applications for our Artist Grants recently closed and we will be announcing and celebrating the successful applicants for grants of up to $5,000 for six local artists soon,” the Deputy Mayor said.
Ms Laird enjoys searching for the hidden treasures in everyday life and seeking beauty that often goes unnoticed, which she did to perfection in Peluquera – her winning photo of hairdressing in a La Habana street scene.
“In La Habana, it often seems that much of life is lived out on the streets, including hair and beauty treatments. Hairdressing is an art form and occupation that dates back thousands of years.
“With the Cuban Government lifting restrictions on private enterprises, women can now run and operate their own businesses legally. To many women, their hair is not only a part of their outfit but an extension of their personality.
“Many women in Havana support bright hairdos and vibrant weaves to match the colours of the city," Ms Laird said.
Judge Simon Lawrie, curator McClelland Sculpture Park and Gallery, said Ms Laird’s Peluquera image was initially striking for its composition and colour, however there is also great cultural, social, and historical depth to the subject matter. He said this included reflection on cultural traditions, political and social freedoms, labour and gender equality.
Ms Laird said the win provided a huge boost, adding: “It was great to have my work seen and recognised by others. It has encouraged me to continue photographing things I love.”
Cr Tayler added that the perfect way to support the arts is to buy tickets to shows in 2022 and help live entertainment get back on stage.
“Frankston Arts Centre also offers gift vouchers, which is just the ticket for all those family members who are keen to get back to the theatre and make lasting memories.”
For more information about gift cards, please click here.
Ms Laird’s Su Alma (Their Soul) is now on exhibition at Frankston Arts Centre’s Curved Wall Gallery until Saturday 29 January. Framed limited edition prints for are sale from $280 to $320. For more details, please click here.