2026 SPE Annual Conference: Catalyst for Exchange
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Hosted by SCAD; juried by Maria Kelly
Thursday, March 19 - 6:30PM to 9:00PM
SCAD
This theme for this year's Society for Photographic Education annual conference, Catalyst for Exchange, is an ideal one when considering submissions for a juried exhibition. Broad and flexible in its interpretation, it also emphasizes the active role photography can take in sharing histories and points of view, which creates moments for contemplation and dialogue. Of the approximately 250 submitted images, it was a tough endeavor to narrow the selection down to the 35 works on view here.
The pieces are varied in their approach and style, but a few throughlines emerged that act as catalysts for exchange; many of the artists seek to offer connection or contrast through works that examine personal and social histories, document changing landscapes, or employ alternative processes. Images from personal and family archives explore methods of conveying stories and memorializing moments in time to make public the personal and intimate. A number of artworks in the exhibition emphasize tactility and touch through acts such as carefully translating photographs to fabric, delicately lifting emulsion, or by picturing hands. A sense of care and concern is made visceral through these works. Other artists documented natural and manmade environments, at times focusing on spaces that may be familiar but are in the process of grappling with impending change. We see a world we know, one we do not, and perhaps glimpse a future ahead.
It was an honor to jury this year's exhibition. I hope the works on view can provide fresh associations and offer meaningful resonances both within the conference and with the medium at large.
Maria L. Kelly
Assistant Curator of Photography
The High Musem
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