Halftone Print Fair is an initiative by PhotoIreland, held annually at the Library Project, in Temple Bar, Dublin. It exhibits prints from artists working in a variety of disciplines such as photography, screen printing and etching to help raise money to support and promote Irish artists.
Being a regular visitor to the Library project, I decided that I would submit some of my own work for consideration. Although I have taken part in other group exhibitions in the past, the Halftone Print fair was a lot more exciting. I’m a big fan of the space, the work sold there throughout the year is of an exceptional high quality and its staff have always been a pleasure to deal with. I’ve always believed it’s a privilege to exhibit art work in any public setting, but to have my images hanging in the heart of Temple Bar is especially gratifying.
My first step was to complete the submission form. As well as writing a short bio, details were required for each image such as the title, number of editions, process used, technical details, etc. As the gallery receive 40% of the sale price, this also has to be considered. The submission form actually guided me in the decision making process, from image size and quantity to frame selection.
I knew I wanted to submit pinhole photographs, possibly all taken on black and white film, however it was important to me to have a set of images that worked well together. If each image was displayed side by side they would have to look cohesive. A maximum of ten artworks for submission were permitted. I chose four pinhole photographs of nature scenes. I slightly adjusted contrast levels in Photoshop and printed each image 10×10 inches. I chose a simple black wooden 16×16 inch frame with a 2 inch window mount with glass.
After submitting my application I was delighted to receive the news that all four images were successful. After safely delivering the artwork, I attended the opening night. This was such an enjoyable evening. I got to see all the final artworks in the exhibition and where my own photos were hanging. It was great to chat with other people. The atmosphere was so friendly and positive.
The exhibition ran for two months (which was longer than usual). I managed to visit the exhibition twice. Unfortunately, I didn’t sell any of my images, but of course that wasn’t the purpose of this project. I do however have new ideas of how I might exhibit my work in the future. The Halftone Print Fair has definitely whetted my appetite for exhibiting more of my photography in the future!
Barry Duggan Photography 