National Art League to Host Photography Exhibit in July

This month, the is hosting its first photography exhibit in 10 years that will include the work of more than 40 local artists.

The exhibit, which includes photographs from members and non-members, will run from July 9 to Aug. 4.

“It’s a different style of art for us,” said art league President Marina Marsina of the gallery, which tends to display paintings and sculptures. “But we weren’t looking for documentary photography. We wanted interesting photography that you wouldn’t normally see. And we thought we’d make it an open show in order to get more diverse work.”

The photography exhibit will include portraits, landscapes, still life, slices of city life, seascapes and architectural shots.

Some of the photos are in black and white, or sepia, while others are in color.

The gallery received more than 255 entries, of which 65 ended up being placed in the show.

Martin Hochberg, the former president of the Long Island Center for Photography, will act as the show’s judge, awarding prizes in a variety of categories, including best in show as well as first place prizes for black and white and color photos.

The best in show winner will take home $250, while first place winners will receive $150.

Merit and honorable mention ribbons will also be distributed.

A reception will be held at the league, which is located at 44-21 Douglaston Parkway, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on July 22.

Marsina said most of the show’s participants are not professional photographers.

“It’s a mix,” she said of the artists. “But most professional photographers don’t enter contests anymore. Most of the people are doing it because they love it.”