Free Impressions at PCT

The Gallery at Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA held an Artists’ Receptions in their front and back galleries on Saturday April 20th. The exhibition presented in their lobby (front gallery) was titled, “Smart Impressionism” featuring the works of John Kopp. The exhibition presented in the hallway leading to their second and third screening rooms was titled “Fly Free” featuring the works of Joyce B. Bambach.

Throughout the Gallery, the muffled sounds of films being viewed behind the screening rooms’ doors were heard as a sparse number of art lovers moved about among the works presented by the two photographers. The images provided the few who ventured into the gallery some wondrous sights. Insights to how the images came into being enhanced their viewing as Ms. Bambach and the gallery curator Marcos Oksenhendler (who spoke on Mr. Kopp’s behalf as he was not present for the reception) spoke of their experiences capturing each shot.

Mr. Kopp’s work consisted of photographs taken upon his cellular device known as a “Smart Phone.” The images were further enhanced through the use of the Applications available within the phone. It was striking to discover what one can do without the equipment commonly associated with professional digital photography. The applications created an impressionistic view of the images he captured which allowed them to resemble paintings reminiscent of those created by Renoir, Monet, and others #who embodied the 19th century art movement.

Ms. Bambach’s work consisted primarily of Aerial Images which gave the sensation of a peacefulness which derives from the ability to overlook the landscape from a perspective not commonly utilized in life. Local institutions such as the East Stroudsburg University of PA and the Pocono Medical Center were among the photos as were mountains and rivers well known to those who explored them aground. There were also photographs of objects in flight such as seagulls who enhanced the theme of here exhibit.

While exploring the entire exhibition, one becomes intrigued by the overall sense of calm the permeates from the two exhibits. The soft colors utilized in the pieces by Mr. Kopp and the gentle feeling of flight shared by Ms. Bambach settles one as the hustle and bustle from the world outside the gallery soon fades into a half dreamt of memory. Perhaps it was esoterically fitting there were so few who attended the reception so those who were present were better able to reflect upon the mood of the work, but it is hoped that the work is experienced by those who enter the Theater and are able to take a moment while walking to the screening room that is showing a film they would like to see. This moment of ponderous is well worth the time it takes to slow one’s pace. You’ll find more photographs taken during the receptions in The Pocono Community Theater (PCT) 2013 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151611158600421.1073741828.636000420&type=1.

John Kopp is a retired commercial photographer and teacher which allowed him to become an active artist/photographer exhibiting his work in various galleries throughout the United States. Locally, he has exhibited at The PoconoArts Cultural Center’s ArtSpace Gallery  and Pocono Community Theater in East Stroudsburg, PA. He is a board member at the Pocono Arts Council. You’ll be able to learn more about John Kopp by exploring his Website at www.johnkopp.com.

Joyce B. Bambach is a professional photographer who lives in Andover, N.J. and has worked for several Newspapers and Magazines. Besides the display presented in The Gallery at Pocono Community Theater, her work can be seen at several permanent displays in several Medical Centers. Ms. Bambach has also won a number of Awards for her photographic skills. You’ll be able to learn more about Joyce B. Bambach by exploring her Website at www.joycebambach.com.

The Exhibitions continues until May 19th. The dates for their next exhibitions are yet to be announced. In addition to hosting art exhibits, The Pocono Community Theater presents a variety of films both popularly current as well revivals of those films released in the past. They also host special events such as their Book Club which explore novels that have been adapted to the screen and are currently being shown. Please Explore The Pocono Community Theater Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/PoconoCommunityTheater?ref=ts&fref=ts for more information.