The Center for Photographic Art inspires the artist and audience by nurturing the personal growth essential to creating and appreciating art. CPA works to increase understanding of and respect for photography and its role in contemporary culture.
CPA strives to address artistic development, build well-informed audiences, stimulate dialogue, and promote photography through education, exhibitions, lectures, grant programs, and community collaboration.
During the past year, the Center for Photographic Art has been working diligently on our strategic plan. While looking closely at four strategic plan tracks - membership, partnerships/collaborations, marketing/outreach, and youth/diversity - an idea was born. A festival to celebrate the photographic arts and the rich history of photography in the Monterey Peninsula. Photo Carmel will begin as a three day photography festival with keynote speakers, portfolio reviews, photography exhibitions, workshops, and a photobook fair. This event will center around our annual members exhibition and will be an opportunity for residents and visitors alike to participate in multiple photography programs. It is also an important moment to bring together our wonderful community of galleries, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations dedicated to the arts. It will hopefully be the beginning of a festival that grows to encompass Central California and celebrate the region that is the birthplace of West Coast photography.
I am deeply thankful for the Center for Photographic Art steadfast commitment to nurturing creativity and excellence in photography. Their support has been instrumental in my growth as an artist. Receiving a grant from CPA this year has been transformative, allowing me to further realize my artistic vision and complete my project. Director Ann Jastrab has been pivotal in my development. Under her leadership, CPA consistently hosts renowned artist lecturers and curators, broadening my artistic horizons through enlightening talks and exceptional exhibitions. The jurors she invites attract a diverse range of artists, providing a platform for us to showcase our work to discerning eyes. The exhibitions have been awe-inspiring. As an artist living in Monterey County, CPA has been the cornerstone of my artistic journey, fostering a culture of knowledge-sharing with a supportive community of like-minded artists and offering volunteer opportunities that enhance exposure to the arts and community engagement.
- María Isabel LeBlanc
