Photograph by Rick York.

The January exhibit at Gallery 1855 in Davis will feature works by photographer Rick York.

York grew up in Southern California, developing an interest in photography in high school. While attending Humboldt State University as a botany student, he learned how to develop film and make black-and-white prints.

As a professional botanist, York was primarily interested in scientific and documentary plant/flower photography. He took thousands of macro photographs (slides) with a scientific ring light flash, which he later donated to the California Native Plant Society for use in its educational materials and programs.

Ten years ago, York rediscovered photography, purchased his first digital camera, and set out in a new artistic direction. He now takes photographs of nearly everything except flowers. He participates in a number of photographic clubs and groups and is on a quest to take photography to the level or art.

York recently retired from his position as a senior biologist at the California Energy Commission in Sacramento. He lives in Davis with his wife Linda, who works in the library at Davis High School.

For this show, York captured a variety of richly colored images while on walks through downtown San Francisco and Sacramento. Some can be thought of as street scenes, others as “found art.”

“My images are not meant to be documentary,” he explained. “Instead, I hope they inspire others to realize the interesting and beautiful images that are available to all, if you just slow down and pay attention.”

As friend and fellow artist Joe Finkleman puts it, “What our pictures reveal is not what the world looks like externally, but what the world looks like inside us.” How the world looks to Rick York has changed a great deal over time.

The show will open on Jan. 2 and remain on view through Jan. 31. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. There will be an open house with the artists from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 12.

Gallery 1855 is located on the grounds of the Davis Cemetery, 820 Pole Line Road.

Comments

comments