NOW ON DISPLAY: “Mysterious Faces, Secret Spaces” by Sue Rakers

Every month, as a part of our Third Friday open house, Third Degree welcomes a new artist to showcase their work in our East Gallery. This month, we welcome the return of photographer Sue Rakers in her latest exhibit, Mysterious Faces, Secret Spaces.

“There are many forgotten places with rich histories and stories to tell. With some research and a little luck we can usually find out some interesting facts. Who was the architect? When was the structure built and for what purpose? Who lived or died there? But sometimes research comes to a dead end. When that happens, we are left with a mystery. We can then decide to fill in the gaps with our own imagination. Not knowing the full story, all we are left with is a face or space to ponder…it is open to our interpretation.

“When I look at these lonely spaces my imagination comes alive with my own ideas about who may have lived or worked there. So many questions! While I find the history fascinating, I also like to let my imagination wander while I am photographing. It puts me more in touch with my surroundings on an emotional level. I realize that there is a lonely, sad quality to my images. The irony is that being in these places makes me appreciate coming out of them into the light of day. It makes me value my limited time here all the more and the wonderful people I share that time with.”

~Sue Rakers

Sue spent many years as a printer, graphic designer and watercolor artist. She is now exploring the exciting world of photography. Her goal is to find ways to combine her love of print, design, and fine art with her photography to create images that resonate with the viewer. She is fascinated by forgotten, abandoned spaces and the stories they tell. Our cities have unique architectural histories and she is exploring ways to become more involved and use photography to call attention to the plight of decaying neighborhoods and architectural treasures. She enjoys being out taking photos, meeting other artists and photographers, while learning from them and being inspired by them.

Come see Sue’s artwork! Mysterious Faces, Secret Spaces runs through Wednesday, October 18.
Third Degree is open 10:00a-5:00p Monday-Saturday and 11:00a-4:00p Sunday.