Contrasts - Olaf Starorypinski & Scott Nichol

"Contrasts"
Interpretations of the Female Figure by Two Contemporary Photographers

Show Runs:
March 6th - March 31st
First Friday Artist Reception:
March 6th, 7:00pm - 10:00pm


As two of the premier photographers in the Lehigh Valley, Scott Nichol and Olaf Starorypinski have turned their lenses on everything from families to forests. They also have their share of experience with that old favorite: the female form. Monsoon Galleries in Bethlehem will host a stunning series of figurative photography from Nichol and Starorypinski for the month of March.

Olaf Starorypinski was born in London to Polish parents. He has lived in the Lehigh Valley for nearly two decades, currently residing in Emmaus and working from a studio in Bethlehem’s Banana Factory. His background as a light designer influences his photography ­ sharp, vivid work with intriguing subjects and flawless technique. He photographs models in his studio and in some surprising, and recognizable settings. Bethlehem Steel has been photographed many times, but Starorypinski contrasts the stark industrial backgrounds with the soft curves of nude models for a stunning result unlike anything you have ever seen.

Starorypinski’s work calls to mind David Bailey, Robert Mapplethorpe, Howard Schatz, and Helmut Newton ­ photographic masters known for technique and precision but even moreso for style and soul.

The photography of Scott Nichol of Allentown also includes nude portraits in exotic locales. In one series, the female form is exposed against natural settings such as woods and rivers. Both model and setting are striking works of natural beauty. His in-studio works are just as striking, using movement and studio lighting to create forms that are sometimes ghostly, sometimes sculptural, and always beautiful. He captures on film the ephemeral nature of feminine beauty with style and grace.

Nichol’s work has been featured in American Photo, Photographer’s Forum and several galleries across the region.

Two fine-art photographers, one classic subject. Figurative photography on display and on sale at Monsoon Galleries for the month of March.

What: "Contrasts": Figurative Photography at Monsoon Galleries
When: March 6 - March 31.
First Friday Artist Reception: March 6 (7pm-10pm)
Where: Monsoon Gallery 11 E 3rd St Bethlehem, PA 18015 (610) 866-6600