Weather | Sports | Forums | Comics | Classifieds | Calendar | Movies
The photographs of William Wegman's Weimaraners are on exhibit at the University of South Florida Contemporary Art Museum.
By MELISSA HAGO
© St. Petersburg Times, published February 19, 2001
TAMPA -- As a photographer myself I've been to a few photography exhibits, but William Wegman's definitely caught my eye.
As I walked into the exhibit at the University of South Florida Contemporary Art Museum I was mesmerized not so much by the artwork but by the audience.
The audience included older adults, teenagers, children and dogs. Yes, dogs, specifically Weimaraners, which happen to be the type of dog Wegman uses in his photography. I found it neat that dogs were allowed to enjoy the gallery and take part in the reception for Wegman, who was there to sign books and talk with people who came to see his work.
After playing with some of the dogs, I moved on to the original reason I came to the gallery: to view Wegman's photography.
The beginning of the exhibition included some of Wegman's earlier artwork, mostly drawings. Around the corner there was a crowd of people watching one of Wegman's videos. Many laughed at seeing the dogs playing the main roles in full dress, wigs and everything.
After watching some of the video, I entered the next room, which was filled with many of Wegman's photographs. I was excited to see Wegman's use of color and creativity.
One of my personal favorites was a photograph titled Reduce/Increase. The photograph was a full body picture of a Weimaraner standing up, dressed in a blouse and a skirt. There were labels on different body areas such as the hips and legs saying "reduce here" and "increase here." It was quite funny.
I also enjoyed looking at most of the photographs because they were completely different from anything else I have ever seen. Wegman's use of light, color and props is intriguing. I especially liked the way he can make the dogs seem as though they really did have human bodies.
As I got to the end of the gallery, I encountered Wegman and realized he was the same kind gentleman chatting with people outside before the doors opened. He had this kind aura to him and always had a big smile as he signed books and other items.
I was truly satisfied with this gallery and will now add William Wegman to my list of favorite photographers.
Melissa Hago, 17, is a senior at Wharton High School in Tampa.