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‘Virgin Islands Infrared – Photography by Jared Shomo’ Exhibit Opens Saturday at 81C Gallery

Infrared photography by Jared Shomo (Image courtesy of Jared Shomo)

81C is honored to announce a full-scale gallery show of fine art photography, with an exhibition celebration event taking place on Sat., Feb. 20, from 7 p.m. to midnight at its downtown location on Strand Gade in historic Charlotte Amalie. The featured exhibition showcases a contemporary collection of images, printed on metal, by photographer Jared Shomo. The show is entitled “Virgin Islands Infrared – Photography by Jared Shomo”. Event info, gallery hours, and other details are listed below.

Portrait of Jared Shomo (Submitted photo by Zack Zook)

Show description:

This collection of Shomo’s infrared photography, presented on metal prints, represents what the artist describes as unseen energies, and delivers a departure from the formality, expectation, and mainstream social definitions of natural beauty. The level of intrigue Shomo stands to invoke through this collection is profoundly complex, as there are trust issues in the art world associated with flipping any traditional medium on its crown, nonetheless while portraying heavenly or pure subjects. Shomo has done this so boldly, using a near-alchemy that transcends unspoken boundaries with a sense of effortlessness, all while honoring precious natural and cultural icons through an eye that is strong, exact, evocative, and changed. Virgin Islands Infrared gives the viewer dynamic insight into a fine art photographer working with earthly beauty and timelessness using avant-garde formulas and advancing the experience through a trifecta of critical technologies, intimate presentation, and a masterful eye.

Artist statement:

“As artists, we are often trying to introduce a change in perspective or way of thinking. Art is about exploring boundaries. It is one of the purest forms of freedom. When I first discovered infrared photography about ten years ago I was instantly captivated. It was a reminder of how limited our five senses are to the amount of unseen energies flowing around us. This collection provides a glimpse of the Virgin Islands in a new and different light.” – Jared Shomo, February 2021

A note on the photographic print presentation: Metal prints are made by infusing dyes directly into specially coated sheets of aluminum. The resulting prints always produce radiant colors. The look is clean and modern and borderless. A waterproof surface provides protection and durability.

About the artist:

Jared Shomo, 41, is an artist residing in the US Virgin Islands. Born to two artisan parents, Jared was immersed in visual art from an early age, developing a passion for the family trade of stained glass and also photography. Most of his work is inspired by elements of nature, plants and animals.

Event details:

“Virgin Islands Infrared – Photography by Jared Shomo.” Gallery exhibition celebration on Sat., Feb. 20 from 7 p.m. to midnight. Location: 81C – Downtown Charlotte Amalie. Strand Gade between waterfront and Market Square. Right around the corner from Moe’s Grocery on the waterfront. Visit www.81CVI.com for a map link. Or google 81C Virgin Islands.

Parking and other info: Park on the waterfront. Covid-19 capacity regulations will be observed. Face masks are required to enter the event. Drinks will be available for suggested donation and hors d’oeuvres will be passed. Please drink responsibly.

Gallery hours: The exhibition will be on display for two weeks and viewings are available by both public walk-in and private appointment. Gallery hours are Mon., Feb. 22, through Fri., March 5, noon to 6 p.m. daily. Art sales contact person: Joseph Hewes: 340-244-5056.

About 81C: 81C is a newly opened event venue in historic downtown featuring a pop-up event space and art gallery. The space is available for private and public event rentals. 81C was launched by entrepreneur Zack Zook after several years of renovation and restoration to the (circa 1810) building located at 81C Kronprindsens Gade. The space is currently operated by Joseph Hewes, Augustin Kelvin Holder, Anya Vizziello, and Zack Zook. Artist Shansi Miller was featured at their opening launch event in October 2020. In January 2021 81C hosted an abstract works show by artist and 81C operator Augustin Kelvin Holder. In 2021 81C will expand operations to include a “hurricane season artist in residence program” and launch a boutique hotel Airbnb component, featuring an upper-level historic grand residence complete with a library and lounge, also serving as additional event space. 81C currently hosts weekly “salon” social hour events each Wednesday and Sunday. Visit www.81CVI.com

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