Photo Nights Boston

Three Photo Shows To See In Boston Right Now

by Christine Del Castillo

HAROLD FEINSTEIN: A RETROSPECTIVE

Harold Feinstein's story— a boy from a new immigrant family raised in Coney Island amidst a feast of American nostalgia— is by now a familiar one. Still, there is a strong sense of the mythical and patriotic about its retelling, and knowing it draws a useful frame around his work. Feinstein, who now resides near Boston, is prolific photographer with decades of work behind him. He is best known for his images of Coney Island, New York City, and his personal experience as a draftee in the Korean War. This show is on view now until October 30 at the Panopticon Gallery— Boston, MA.

ORI GERSHT: HISTORY REPEATING

This exhibition is generating a lot of buzz, partly because it is at the Museum of Fine Arts and partly because it is so compelling. In Ori Gersht: History Repeating, cinematographer and photographer Gersht alternately seduces and repels viewers by camouflaging violence and history in sensuality.  While you are there, keep your eyes peeled for Gersht’s explosive take on Dutch “vanitas” still life paintings, e.g  his film Big Bang. Watch a clip on the MFA website. This show is on view now through January 6, 2013 at the Museum of Fine Arts— Boston MA.

A GENEROUS MEDIUM: PHOTOGRAPHY AT WELLESLEY 1972-2012

Did you know that Wellesley College's Davis Museum has amassed an encyclopedic collection of photography over the last few decades? I had no idea.  Some of my favorites are featured, most notably Cindy Sherman and Diane Arbus. If that’s not your bag, don’t worry— this a major exhibition with something for everyone. It spans the entire range of the Davis Museum's photography holdings, from the oldest (Henry Fox Talbot's Oriel Window at Lacock Abbey) to the very newest (James Casabere, a recent acquisition). For a more complete list of renowned artists featured in A Generous Medium..., click here. This show will be on view now through December 16 at the Davis Museum— Wellesley MA.

Christine Del Castillo chairs PNB’s Development Committee and contributes to PNB’s social media team. She tweets arts and culture events in Boston at @PhotoNightsBOS (her recommendations are tagged ^CD). Her personal Twitter account is @chrissachrissa. Christine is a writer, an experienced nonprofit professional and a fervent supporter of public art in urban spaces.