A reception for John Kokajko's solo show, The Geometry of Botany, is set for April 6, 2012 at 6 pm. This exhibition explores the symmetry and Fibonacci-like structure of plant life. Photographs are on view at f8 Galleries and Studio through April 30, 2012.Kokajko states, "Photography has been an important tool for me since the 1960's. In 2011, I set myself the challenge of creating a series that expresses my central artistic vision. Using the native and imported plants found on the Florida Gulf Coast as my subject matter I have created images, somewhat idealized and abstract, that express my respect for form and structure. Cues for actual size are missing or altered, a spiral coiled fern becomes visually equivalent to a Hubble view of the Whirlpool Galaxy. Mathematical forms are revealed as a natural consequence, illustrating both the simply geometry of linear equations and the controlled chaos of non linear fractals."
Kokajko was born and raised in suburban New Jersey John has also lived in Berkley, California and the backwoods of Maine. He presently lives in Bradenton, Florida, with his wife Martha Kokajko, an Acupuncture Physician with her own practice. Photography has been part of John's life from grade school in the early 60's. Ansel Adams and Edward Weston were major influences.
Organized by the f8 Galleries and Studio, the exhibition also features black-and-white and color photographs by various award-winning, fine-arts photographer. The juried guest photographers are: Skip Nall, H.D. Hasselbarth, Virginia Hoffman, Vincent Taschetti, Chris Thibaut, Kaje Housman, Thom Jernigan and Dieter Tamson.
The exciting and contemporary collection of images range from photo-journalistic to completely manipulated photo-digital art. Each display showcases the style and vision of the photographer.
"Our goal," says owner, Matt Allison, "is to have a place focused on helping photographers fulfill their needs. f8 is more than a photography gallery; it's also a full service photographic and digital art studio. We offer photography classes, workshops, photo walks, and one-on-one lessons."
All works are available for purchase; and the opening reception is free and open to the public. It coincides with Bradenton's Village of the Arts Art Walk. f8 Gallery and Studios are located at 1329-b 11th Street W, Bradenton, FL. Please call 941.447.2619 for gallery hours or private appointments.