River Arts is pleased to announce Jeremy Barnard’s solo show “Italia in Tre” opening in the River Room Thursday, Sept. 12 through Wednesday, Oct. 2. The show features Barnard’s work celebrating Italy throughout his travels there over the years in an exhibition of infrared and color photography showing the diversity of landscapes and medieval villages of central and northern Italy. An opening reception will take place on Saturday, Sept. 28 from 2 to 4 p.m.

Barnard has been primarily a practitioner of black and white photography for the past 50+ years. He is self-taught, his craft having been molded and influenced by the photography and writings of some of the great masters. “My love affair with photography began when I developed my first roll of film and created my first print. I fell in love with the process, the magic,” he said.

Barnard’s passionate pursuit of technical excellence has kept him involved in every step of the photographic process. He retains control even into the presentation stage by doing his own spotting, mounting, matting, and framing. In his contemporary work Barnard prefers to make photographs that do not contain people. However, his images frequently contain evidence that people had been present, adding an element of mystery. “I like to make pictures that ask more questions than they answer”

His approach to his work can best be described as an ongoing process of self discovery. He prefers natural to artificial light, but over the years has learned to be comfortable in the studio. His photographs walk a fine line between abstraction and realism. “My process begins with a wide view of the subject, seeing it in its environmental context. With the knowledge that my image will lack impact if I do not get close enough, I ask myself what was the element of the scene that first drew me to it, and I move closer to isolate it. The resultant images tend to possess the abstract qualities of shape and form.

“My trips to Italy have provided me with a treasure trove of images, some of which are among my favorites,” continued Barnard. “When in Italy, I have found that I am less drawn to the classic tourist spots, and more interested in seeing and photographing the countryside, where I found many abandoned farmhouses that told stories of former lives. At some time in the future I shall return to Italy, I feel that my work there is not yet done.”

River Arts is located at 36 Elm Street Plaza in Damariscotta. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information call the gallery at 563-6868 or visit the website: riverartsme.org