Review by curator Susan Spiritus, "The 3 photographs submitted by Virginia Hines clearly speak to the theme of the JOURNEY and are my choices for the Best Series.

The photograph of “Girl and Motorscooter” was such a powerfully moving image for me – as I looked at it and thought about that toddler bundled up and ready to ride.  She clearly had been on this motor scooter before and was appropriately dressed for the ride. Most children of her age range wouldn’t stand for being so wrapped up – from head to toe and especially with a mask over her mouth!

Is this her mode of life and transportation? It certainly seems commonplace and acceptable to her. She is ready to roll and is waiting for her mom or driver whomever that might be. The pink bag attached to the front of the vehicle has some food items in it. I wonder, did they just come from the market or are these items from within that will be needed along the way or at their final destination? While you cannot make out what most of those items are, I can see a lime and a lemon, which tell me that they will be used shortly. 

“Man Climbing Stairs” also speaks to the JOURNEY as I see this old man persevering onward and not allowing anything to stop him or get in the way. It is obvious from his wrinkled hands and posture that he has had a difficult and hard life, but is one who is still is motivated to more onward in spite of his incapacity.
It is hard not to feel empathy for this man and we do not know if he is in pain as he ascends the stairs, but he does not let that impede his need to continue onward on his journey.

The photograph of “Three Generations” also speaks to the JOURNEY but in a different manner; as it shows us that the journey has progressed through many decades from mother to daughter and now to the granddaughter."

Virginia Hines says, "For me, the camera is a tool for exploring mysteries and searching for order and beauty in everyday life.

Ultimately it becomes a way to make connections in a world that feels increasingly fragmented and anxious."

A former newspaper photographer, Virginia Hines has studied photography with noted artists including Geoff Winningham, Harvey Stein, Bruce Gilden, and Alex and Rebecca Norris Webb.

Her photographs have appeared in numerous books and periodicals and have been exhibited in galleries and other venues across the U.S.

www.studioaphotography.tumblr.com
Instagram: @vhines_photos

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