New Orleans Photo Alliance Pushpin Show: Preview

By Dorian Hatchett

Photography is the art of preserving a moment in time, and in doing so, giving that moment an entire narrative writ timeless in the unique voice of the artist. Nothing is so beneficial to art as a diverse range of perspectives. To this end, New Orleans Photo Alliance, with approximately 300 members, provides a space for that diversity to coalesce in an entirely new range of artistic opportunity.  

Comprised of photographers of all levels of skill and experience from passionate hobbyists to award winning photojournalists, New Orleans Photo Alliance (NOPA) seeks to foster a sense of community in this most science-driven art form. Member benefits include not only frequent gallery shows, but access to low-cost darkroom space and year-round educational events and workshops.  

The principle of the Pushpin Show is a simple one. Instead of a formal affair, with framed or mounted photographs revealed at an opening ceremony as a curated collection, this show starts at zero, and organically grows across the span of the event.

All NOPA members are invited to participate. Just bring a piece of work to contribute, place it where you like, and watch as the unspoken communication turns the exhibit into a shifting visual landscape. Members are allowed to hang their work during gallery hours on August 21 (11am-4pm), but also during the opening reception that evening (from 5-7pm) and then for the entire length of the show (through September 25th), with the only stipulation that once hanged, a piece must remain on display thought the entire show.  

The result is a show that is fluid and shifting. As new pieces join the chorus of photographic voice, the song changes, morphing across tone and theme to a spectacular crescendo of ideas.  

​The Pushpin Show is at 7800 Oak St. August 21st-September 25th. The New Orleans Photo Alliance (and membership information) can be found at neworleansphotoalliance.org