Andrew Borowiec: Cleveland Photographs Through a Curator’s Lens

We recently sat down with Tom Hinson [1] , curator of photography [2], to take a closer look at Andrew Borowiec: Cleveland Photographs [3]. The exhibition is on view until October 17.

Q: What makes Andrew Borowiec [4]’s work so unique?
A: Clearly his work relates to earlier photographers that have looked at similar subject matter. Examples include Eugène Atget [5] and his work with Paris environments, Walker Evans [6]’ work in the 1930s that captured how working people looked and lived, and most recently Lee Friedlander [7]’s work that was on view here last year. Artists always stand on the shoulder of previous work but that’s just the starting point. Artists then bring their own voices.

Q: What are the keys to enjoying the exhibition?
A: When you look at the photographs, you have a sense of being taken on a private tour. Through the images, you walk down streets, slip into backyards, and look out on to the city. He [Borowiec] is really a very gifted recorder of constructed reality. Andrew is magical in the way he works with light and shade. He brings subjects to life in a most animated way. When viewing the show, marvel at the photographer’s eye. He is able to isolate things that we might walk by and not see their special qualities.

Q: What’s next for the photography galleries?
A: I’m retiring in December after 38 years at the museum, but I will be curating two exhibitions in 2011. Contemporary landscapes from the permanent collection will be on view in the galleries next spring.

Q: What aspects of photography interest you most?
A: I enjoy the whole history of the media. It allows me to participate in different chronological periods that showcase the evolution of photography as fine art.

-- Kesha Williams