Fine Art Photography by H.D. Hasselbarth Displayed in Sarasota's Art Uptown Gallery

SARASOTA, FL, July 31, 2012 (Press-News.org) The fine-art exhibition entitled, 'Dog Days of Summer' begins in August 2012 and features work of prominent photographer, H.D. Hasselbarth, at the Art Uptown Gallery in Sarasota, FL. The opening reception is scheduled on Friday, August 3, 2012, from 6-9 pm. All artwork is for sale and affordably priced.

"I'm very pleased to be included in this exhibition again at Art Uptown Gallery. It is the oldest fine-arts gallery in the Sarasota and carries a great reputation. This is the 4th annual 'Dog Days Exhibition' and only one piece per artist is accepted. So it is an honor to be included in this juried art show," states Hasselbarth.

Her piece entitled, 'Indecision,' is a digital art work using layers of photographs to create an emotional and sensitive look at feminine consciousness. The tug of war between inner and outer tensions, between duty and dereliction, is reflected in the portrait and touches the archetypical subconscious. The piece previously received the Nell Rude Award by Art Center Manatee.

"I enjoy using the technical aspects of digital photography to produce abstract artwork," Hasselbarth admits. "The abstract works are more suited for my creative vision. The commercial work I do has to conform to the client's vision."

Hasselbarth's work has been characterized as reminiscent of Henri Cartier-Bresson's photojournalist style. Yet, she is uncomfortable with comparisons. She focuses on her own intentions and concentrates on capturing the intimate details of a scene. She shoots thousands of photos and then meticulously edits each piece for the final product. Her photographs seem to capture unfolding events and allow the viewer to invent their own story. They are a combination of journalistic illustration with touches of social commentary. She has the eye to see the potential for a strong picture and then organize the elements into an effective photograph. They are ephemeral and often a patchwork of vignettes pieced together.

Recently, Hasselbarth published a compilation of photographs of France as part of a one-person exhibition with the Alliance Francaise de Sarasota. The book, 'A Day Without Cares,' is available on www.blurb.com/user/store/ax4u, and explores life along the Seine River and rural France through cultural photography.

"The book originally started out as a catalogue for the exhibition at Alliance Francaise," says Hasselbarth. "But I am very pleased at its acceptance and popularity. I never figured that a photography book would be viable, except in certain circles. There is even an e-book edition out now."

Her digital photography brings a soft, tranquil aspect to landscape photography. It is no surprise that her affection for the Hudson River School of painting is reflected in her photos. A peaceful book, full of serene landscapes and incredible images, Hasselbarth shows you both the why and wherefore of finding, chasing, and expressing your vision with the camera. Vision leads to passion, and passion is a cornerstone of meaningful photography. With it, photographs draw the eye in and create an emotional experience. Without it, a photograph is often unable to capture a viewer's attention.

Both contemplative and inspirational, 'A Day Without Cares' inspires you on your photographic journey to make better images of the places and people you love, whether they are around the world or in your own backyard. Hasselbarth demonstrates how to tell stories, and provides commentaries on the photographs in English and French. Most importantly, she shows that vision, when it comes to photographing people, places, and cultures, fills the frame with intimacy.

Hasselbarth was born in Richmond, Virginia; and moved to Florida with her family during her college years. She received a bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida and also studied photography at Ringling College of Art and Design. Her work is displayed in galleries in New Hampshire, Florida, California and New York. She is selected by Ulrich Goette Himmelblau for inclusion in 'Who's Who in Visual Arts - 100 Photographers' for 2011-2012. Currently, her work is distributed through aX4u Fotos and can be viewed on Facebook at www.facebook.com/aX4u.fotos.

Organized by the Art Uptown Gallery in Sarasota, Florida, the 'Dog Days of Summer' exhibition features 2D and 3D work by local and international artists. The exhibition runs from July 28 - August 24, 2012. The opening reception coincides with the downtown art walk on August 3rd. It is free and open to the public. Wine and cheese will be served to visitors.

Ax4u Fotos represents and promotes works of fine-arts photographers. The company is committed to discovering, examining, and contextualizing known and unknown artworks by modern masters as well as innovative artists of today. For current works of artists, please visit www.aX4u.zenfolio.com.