They say a picture says a thousand words; multiply that by the works of 1500 Canadian and international artists and photographers, spread across 175 venues, and that’s a whole lot of pictures, and even more words to soak in.

And it’s precisely such a mass display of visual expression that draws international audiences to the Scotiabank CONTACT Photography Festival in Toronto each year, the largest photography festival in the world. Established in 1997, CONTACT has grown in both size and prestige, earning a reputation for innovation and the patronage of roughly 1.8 million people.

The highlight of Canada’s spring cultural calendar, CONTACT 2013 is coming to an end after a successful run through the month of May. Looking back, this month was filled with one of a kind creative expression with each exhibit exploring this year’s festival theme, Field of Vision, “where the camera’s field of view extends the eye’s field of vision.” From artist Andrew Wright‘s bewildering and thought provoking “Penumbra” exhibit (University of Toronto Art Centre) to the stunning simplicity of the archival photos in the “Arthur S. Goss: Works and Days” exhibit at the Ryerson Image Centre to the delicious whimsy of photographer Martin Parr‘s public installation at Metro Hall, entitled “Food,” the offerings were a grand many this year.

To honour the end of another impressive festival, we’ve rounded up our top three favourite exhibits from CONTACT 2013, and asked those involved to share a little insight on the medium of photography.

Sophie Hackett, assistant curator of photography, AGO

Describe the first photo that left a lasting impression on you.

A platinum print of Peter Henry Emerson’s “Gathering Waterlilies.” I had only seen the image projected in class lectures. The print itself glowed soft and silvery, and it made me change my mind about the work itself. No longer was it a sentimental image, but instead an enthralling object.

They say “a photo is worth a thousand words.” In terms of the AGO’s Contact 2013 exhibit, what are the top 3 words you would use to describe the collection of photos as a whole?

Multiple, fiery and monuments!

What impression are you hoping the exhibit leaves upon exhibit goers?

That the word “photograph” stands for a wild diversity of things.

Natalie Castellino, Associate Photo Editor, Maclean’s

Describe the first photo that left a lasting impression on you.

That would be the portrait of June Callwood. I came across that negative while going through archives at home. When I put it on the light table, it really took my breath away. It was a beautiful moment captured — so genuine. To see all these old negatives, I just felt that I had a piece of history in my hands.

They say “a photo is worth a thousand words.” In terms of Maclean’s Contact 2013 exhibit, what are the top 3 words you would use to describe the collection of photos as a whole?

Beauty, character, and history.

What impression are you hoping the exhibit leaves upon exhibit goers?

To walk out of “Face to Face” feeling intrigued by the portraits presented and to see the growth of Maclean’s, as well as the people pictured. And, of course, with the desire to purchase the commemorative portraits issue on newsstands or iBooks to see more faces!

Deepali Dewan, Curator (South Asian Arts & Culture), ROM

Describe the first photo that left a lasting impression on you.

The image of the iceburg in Antarctica has haunted me since seeing it. It has the perfect blend of dark and light tones. There is something very majestic and sacred about it. And yet, it is hard to imagine that our way of life 1000s of miles away could be negatively impacting something so beautiful through the green house effect.

They say “a photo is worth a thousand words.” In terms of the ROM’s Contact 2013 exhibit, what are the top 3 words you would use to describe the collection of photos as a whole?

Powerful, spiritual, and relevant.

What impression are you hoping the exhibit leaves upon exhibit goers?

I hope they are moved by the beauty of the visual image, are educated about the various natural areas around the globe, and inspired to make small steps in their lives toward protecting delicate ecosystems in the world.

 

Published May 31, 2013