James Duval’s Chasing the Sky in the latest exhibit at the Jessie Edwards Gallery
The sky above Block Island is the focus in the new show at the Jessie Edwards Gallery, on the walls now through the end of September. James Duval has brought eight stunning photographs to the space where viewers will be delighted at the vistas in front of them. James is no stranger to the photography scene on the island, his iconic black and white prints a mainstay at the gallery since it opened 30 years ago. He is a master at capturing the atmospheric temperature of the island in all her weather, especially the foggy low light that can seem to get trapped in areas here. His work is moody, evocative, nostalgic and always beautiful.
These eight new pieces, all framed long vertical shots, are in his characteristic black and white but stretch our eyes ever upwards. While there is an anchor of land to orientate the viewer, it is the expanse above which draws the eye. He has captured the beauty and essence of what makes days on Block Island so mesmerising. Since the island’s tree line is still relatively low, it means there are often magical views and sky watching which tend to go on forever. James has captured what has been able to be, fleetingly, witnessed as visitors wander over the roads and trails.
The landmarks are familiar in each of these works. They don’t tend to change much over time. They can look so different, though, at various times of day or at other times of the year. The weather on the island is such that it is always changing and James has captured not only the land, but with the elongated sky he helps the viewer to experience these familiar places in a different way.
In Fresh Pond, the contrast in the stonewall along with that of the sky allows for an almost perfect mirroring image, the way the sky has pockets of clouds, similar to the shapes of the stones in the wall. It feels cohesive and welcoming as it invites the viewer into the scene, wanting to experience this changing day.
Often the cumulus clouds will build in the north on late summer days, taking up a good portion of the horizon. These are often stacked under a stark blue sky, the contrast almost unbearable. In Cow Cove, one gets the sense the sky is a perfect blue and the white clouds passing by and perhaps lingering further away, are a reminder that this too, shall pass. If it’s one thing known about New England weather, it’s that it needs to be embraced while it’s here because in a few minutes it can all change.
Because of this, it’s wonderful that the photographer has knowledge enough of this place so loved, to seek out and capture the beauty which brings people back to this land time and time again. Please come see these remarkable images for yourselves in the iconic Post Office Building in Old Harbor. The Gallery is open Thurs – Monday from 11am – 5pm (4pm on Sunday) and closed Tues & Wed and always by appointment.