Art in the Stacks: Photography of Henry Stephenson

Photograph by Henry Stephenson

The Friends of the Vineyard Haven Library are pleased to present an exhibit of photographs by Henry Stephenson. The exhibit will be on display on the lower level of the library, during regular library hours throughout the month of February.

The images featured are based on familiar sights found in and around Vineyard Haven -- the Black Dog Museum, the Gannon & Benjamin Marine Railway, and along Beach Road at the R.M. Packer Company property.
The images consist largely of multiple close-up photographs of ordinary objects -- boats under repair and the tools and materials found in the yards.

The photos are then assembled into multiple overlapping layers. The edges of the individual photos often remain visible in the final product creating asymmetrical compositions and images more akin to a painting than a photograph. The photographer's intention is that by lifting these objects out of their familiar context, the viewer will see them in a fresh way and gain an appreciation of the beauty, detail and complexity of the work involved.

The Vineyard Haven Public Library's "Art in the Stacks" space features rotating monthly exhibits and is managed by the Friends of the Library. The library also has a permanent collection of artworks that are displayed throughout the year, including 12 paintings by Vineyard artist Captain John Ivory. Artists interested in showing their work may contact the library at (508) 696-4210.