Hadley Gustafson
Photography

“We’re thrilled to present Heat and Light, a vivid collection of images that radiate intensity, motion, and emotion. From the shimmer of sunlight to the crackle of flame, from the quiet glow of intimacy to the charged energy of performance, these photographs celebrate the power of heat—both literal and metaphorical—and the transformative nature of light. This exhibit invites us to consider how light reveals, how heat moves, and how photography can burn a moment into memory. Congratulations to our award winners, honorable mentions, and all the artists whose work ignites the spirit of this dynamic show.”

“I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to jury the 14th annual Pacific New Media Contemporary Photography in Hawaiʿi exhibition. It was a pleasure to review the range of photographs and portfolios that were submitted this year. In 2022 as we begin to gather again, and families and communities reunite after a difficult period of isolation, these images provide a compelling array of perspectives into this unique moment in time.

As a contemporary curator, I look for works that capture and hold my attention, and where I feel the uniquely personal vision of the artist shows through. This year’s selection of prints and portfolios includes dynamic street photography, memorable cultural celebrations, evocative landscapes, bold abstractions, playful moments, and thoughtful portraits that express and celebrate a wide diversity of viewpoints and interests among Hawai’i photographers.

I wish to thank all of the artists who entered and to David Ulrich, co-director of Pacific New Media, for the invitation and for his thoughtful guidance throughout the process. I am very pleased to have been involved in the exhibition, and for this chance to further my awareness of this vibrant community of artists.”

“James Payne and I share a passion for photography and particularly portraits. When curating, I draw from my background in art history and tend to value work that I feel will resonate over time. Regarding portraits, I am looking for emotionally charged images that capture one’s unique personality in a frame. At best, a great portrait can inspire the viewer to ask questions.”
– Michael Rababy

“Acting as a juror was refreshing because it reminded me that there are many unique ways that we see other people. The entries were diverse, accomplished, and made me thankful for the opportunity to see many intriguing portraits.”
– James Payne

“I was thrilled to partner with David Ulrich and Pacific New Media to jury the annual statewide survey exhibition, Contemporary Photography in Hawai’i, now in it’s thirteenth year. The photographic submissions reflected the many psychological, social, economic, and environmental struggles of the past year with poignancy, visual acuity, and in some cases, escapist whimsy.

From the deep, hidden textures of nature’s details, to the emotional impacts of social isolation and wild spaces, the submissions varied deeply and represented new ways of seeing through photographic traditions and evolving technology. All selected works were deeply compelling and successful in their abilities to capture the cultural and visual complexities of Hawai’i during this historic period of cultural upheaval and social longing. The online exhibition is not to be missed and all the works memorable in their own right.”