In My Element is a combined show of two photographers who are separated in age by several decades but who both gravitate to capturing photos of four basic elements of earth, air, fire, and water.
Gail Middleton can always be found in solitary locations, appreciating the happenstance of nature and trying to capture a moment in time to reflect the passing beauty. Mike Shane is a kinetic searcher whose interaction with people and elements are breathtaking. Their combined images will make you think, transport you to a place of beauty and wonderment, or just capture you with an almost impossible combination of perceived movement.
Opening Reception Admission: Free 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art (Buildings C & G) On display March 2 – May 5, 2019
Gail Middleton is a long-time West Brighton resident who is a frequent visitor to all Staten Island Parks. She is always seen with her camera capturing images of scenery and wildlife. Middleton specializes in nature photography and portraits. Middleton has also organized and curated several shows. She was a recipient of a 2013 DCA Premier Grant from COAHSI for her project Breaking Bread. She has also received a 2018 DCA Art Fund Grant from Staten Island Arts to organize and coordinate "Staten Island 48:00 ~ Another Day in the Life of Staten Island" photo shoot of Staten Island on 21 June 2018.
Mike Shane is a photographer born and bred in Staten Island, New York. He was raised in a family of artists, training his eyes, and honing his creative vision in the inspiring crossroads of suburban and metropolitan. He grew up drawing, later discovered graffiti, earned a degree in Graphic Design and Illustration just over the Verrazano Bridge, at Kingsborough Community College. That is where Mike haphazardly discovered photography. Since then, he's spent the past 16 years self-educating to make photography his "Weapon of Choice" across all aspects of his life. At 36 years young, Mike Shane uses photography for both personal and professional expression and to share a fresh perspective of the places he so fondly calls HOME.
All exhibits and programs are located in the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art (Buildings C & G). Admission is $5 ($4 students/seniors). Free for students grades 6-12 with student ID.
Spring – Autumn hours are Thurs-Fri 12:00 – 7:00 PM and Sat – Sun 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
In My Element is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and the New York State Legislature. Additional support provided by Samuel I. Newhouse Foundation and the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs.
