Photographer Matt Graves’ “Richmond: Points in Time,” a celebration of the city that his shaped his life, will be available to view on this First Friday at Black Iris Gallery. His debut show, the exhibition captures images of Richmond characterized by its history and featuring “bold and dynamic images” that “combine fine art photography with innovative high-quality archival metallic prints that produce a striking 3D effect, adding luxurious brilliance to each piece,” according to a press release. The show will include open and limited editions available for purchase.
Graves notes that his journey into photography was inspired early on by his father’s love for the art form. “My father was into photography as I grew up and encouraged my involvement, so it was a mutual interest and bond, though I didn’t really begin to learn more of the nuances until I was older,” he says.
In 2019, Graves was inspired while traveling to use photography as a way to capture the beauty he encountered. He notes that his passion “deepened and focused” on his hometown after he was asked to create a Richmond-themed calendar by a Carytown merchant and contribute prints to a charity auction for the READ Center, a local organization supporting adult literacy.
“Richmond has always been home to me. My family is from here, and I spent much of my time in the city growing up,” Graves explains. “I’ve lived in the city proper since I was 18, and the city’s beauty, culture, and energy have always inspired me. I’ve always been drawn to showing people the aspects of the city that I’ve loved. This collection reflects not only the city itself but also the way I see and feel connected to it.”
Black Iris Gallery is located at 321 West Broad St. and the show will be viewable on Friday, Dec. 6 from 5 to 10 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public. The show runs through Dec. 31.
