8/24: “Unleaded” and “Terry Evans: Matfield Green Stories”

Linda K. Robinson, “Unleaded” [Listen]

This Friday at Center Gallery, WSU Professor of Photography Linda K. Robinson debuts her most recent body of work, “Unleaded.” In this exhibit, Robinson traces her family history into the oil and gas fields of Harper and Barber County, Kansas.

Her father was a Kansas oil and gas man and would bring Linda, as a child, to these fields. Now, decades later, she revisits the rural spaces of her father’s company in a photographic series that counterbalances her maternal series ”Domestic Work,” currently on view at Naked City Gallery.

Robinson’s photographs treat the warm rust-tones of oil pumps, distant prairie horizons, and the ordinary aspects of the oil business with fascination and reverence. Her tightly focused compositions accentuate the muted colors and deep textures of the industrial equipment within the landscape. These utilitarian, man-made objects reveal the discrete histories and contributions made to the oil and gas heritage of Kansas.

Sentry Unit by Linda Robinson, courtesy of Linda Robinson.

This human perspective washes away the politicized nature of big oil and corrupt mega-corporations, showing yet another way Kansas land is used to sustain life in America. It reminds the viewer of the humble, yet necessary, work of many men earning a living for their families by providing a source of energy to their country.

Robinson’s willingness to delve into her family history creates a relatable narrative that taps into an important aspect of Kansas heritage.

Opening reception for “Unleaded” at Center Gallery takes place on August 26, 2011 from 7pm -10pm

Terry Evans, “Terry Evans: Matfield Green Stories” [Listen]

Photographer Terry Evans is nationally regarded for her sweeping aerial shots that showcase the quiet beauty of the prairie. A new exhibition at WSU’s Ulrich Museum debuts her latest project on the small Kansas town of Matfield Green.

“Terry Evans: Matfield Green Stories,” on the museum’s second floor, displays her sumptuous aerial photographs of the Flint Hills, along with deeply personal portraits and images of rural decay. The town, the land and the people are presented in a tender, but direct, fashion, reminiscent of photojournalism without any political agenda.

Toots by Terry Evans, courtesy of the Ulrich Museum.

The project was conducted in two time periods, separated by a decade. This is subtly evident in the re-photographing of certain townspeople. By paying close attention to the titles of each work, we discover the same faces on the other side of the gallery. Yet, as we stand face-to-face with these portraits, we see that their deep, affectionate gazes, while moving, are not for us. They are for Evans, who cultivated these meaningful friendships. We gain access into her relationships and life in a small prairie town.

However, we are denied any of Evans’ personal anecdotes, despite the title of the exhibition being “Matfield Green Stories.” Only a few intermittent quotes are provided throughout the gallery to nudge us toward creating our own narratives. The undeniable beauty of Evans’ work makes it easy to step right into the world of Matfield Green, but the stories are up to us.

“Terry Evans: Matfield Green Stories” is at the Ulrich Museum from August 20 – November 27, 2011

- Lindsey Herkommer