Michael O. Snyder: "The Mountain Traditions Project" & "Our Changing Climate: A Visual Chronicle"

Opening Reception: Friday, Nov. 18, 2022, 5 -7 p.m.

The PVCC Visual Arts Department will celebrate the opening of two exhibitions that feature works created by photographer, scientist and conservationist Michael O. Snyder and artists he has mentored in his signature style. Snyder is known for combining visual storytelling with his passion for conservation to create art that seeks to make an impact on society.
 
The North Gallery will show Snyder’s “The Mountain Traditions Project,” a collection of photographs and oral histories captured by the artist to document individuals who are carrying forward deep-rooted traditions of the Appalachian region in a world which is otherwise rapidly changing. The images and stories explore the heritage of Appalachia as a rich and diverse tapestry that includes many voices, identities and perspectives. The Mountain Traditions Project will be shown at PVCC courtesy of Maryland’s Frostburg State University. 
 
The South Gallery will feature a group exhibition curated by Snyder titled, “Our Changing Climate: A Visual Chronicle.” The exhibition draws from Snyder’s secondary focus in his work: teaching others to practice the skills needed to use photography as a tool for social impact. For the exhibition, Snyder invited former students to join him in presenting their unique view, from where they live, on the ways in which climate change is apparent around them. The result is a diverse collection of moments from various places illustrating how humans interact with the environment in their daily lives. 

The reception will be followed by a screening of the 2022 mystery thriller "Where the Crawdads Sing" at 7:30 p.m. in the Main Stage Theatre. This evening of arts events is free and open to the public.

The PVCC Gallery, located in the V. Earl Dickinson Building, is open Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m.; and during Fine Arts and Performance evening events.