by Katy Kleinginna
In Motion Staff Writer
Local photographers Alex and Rebecca Norris Webb have teamed up to bring two photography exhibits to DSC’s Southeastern Museum of Photography: Violet Isle, a Cuban inspired exhibit, and My Dakota, a showcase of photographs from their home state South Dakota.
On a visit to Cuba, The Webbs were intrigued by the animals, culture and food of the country and combined their different visions into one feature. “Violet Isle” combines Alex Webb’s interest in the street life and vendors of Cuba and Rebecca Webb’s interest in the fashion and artwork of the land. According to the official website of the exhibition, “Violet Isle is the little-known name for Cuba inspired by the color of the soil there.” The Southeasten Museum of Photography has hosted several exhibits showcasing the beauty of Cuba, but few have featured a team of photographers comparing their own views on Cuban culture. The exhibit opened on Oct 18 and will close on Feb 2, 2014.
Rebecca Norris Webb, originally a poet, found beauty in Cuba and realized there was an equally photogenic location within the states: South Dakota, her native state. The exhibit “My Dakota” features images of the South Dakota landscape and various skylines of the state. The photographs are near to Webb’s heart, because they allow the artist to visit her home without having to hop on a plane. “I was trying to capture a more intimate view of the West. I was trying to capture what all that space feels like to someone who grew up there,” according to a statement made by Webb at a recent discussion about the exhibit. Though the land is heavily populated by animals, Webb showcases how natives have shaped the culture of South Dakota.
“My Dakota” was brought to the Southeastern Museum of Photography on Oct 18 and will leave the museum on Feb 2, 2014. Both “Violet Isle” and “My Dakota” are free for students with valid student IDs to visit during museum hours.