NORFOLK, VA.- The Hermitage Museum and Gardens, a waterfront estate dedicated to exhibiting collection-related and contemporary art, announced that PROOF, the retrospective by Virginia photographer Mark Edward Atkinson, is on view from April 13 to July 22, 2018.
Described by Atkinson as a “memoir of images,” the exhibition includes photography from over 30 years of work both at home and across the world’s landscape. Riveting and poignant images of people and places comprise the collection. Atkinson has travelled extensively abroad shooting both still photography and documenting the stories he finds. At home he has photographed people and places on assignments throughout the US. The multi-faceted exhibition crosses time and distances while still providing a deeply rooted connection to the South.
“This exhibition is an exciting opportunity for the Hermitage to showcase work from an accomplished local artist,” said Hermitage Curator of Contemporary Art Carrie Spencer. “While many of Mark’s photographs have been taken all over the world, his roots are here in Hampton Roads. These photographs provide a window to various places both near and far. Through these images, we are able to traverse the globe and gain a glimpse of the international human experience.”
The exhibition is also celebrated through a book by the same name published by Atkinson exposing even more of his work, locations and styles. Whether photographing Pharrell Williams for a fashion catalogue, Dizzy Gillespie for a cover of a magazine or Dr. Jeffrey MacDonald, convicted of the Manson-style murders of his pregnant wife and children, Atkinson’s images are not only visually compelling, they tell a story in a frame. They also document much of his volunteer work around the world with Operation Smile, Mercy & Sharing, Smile Train, United Way, Urban Ministries of Charlotte and Picture World Hope.
Editorially his photographs have appeared in Time, Newsweek, The Washingtonian, Esquire, The New York Times, Marie Claire, and proudly, the National Enquirer. His work has been selected for the Maine Photographic Show, Communication Arts, The One Show, and Photo District News. In 2012, Mark was awarded a $25,000 Sappi ‘Ideas That Matter’ grant to make an impact on the needs of children in Haiti. He has created art films for the organization Experimental Film Virginia and travels the world shooting both still photography and documentary films telling the stories he finds.
“It was never about exposing film,” said Atkinson. “It was about recording what was in my head even when I had no idea what that was. I mostly loved it all, but looking back I was always, and continue to be, drawn to shooting people. From my early days in the newspaper business, I was drawn to people and their stories. Whether they were artists or factory workers, spies or murderers, it was always fascinating. In many cases voyeuristic.”
Atkinson started his interest as a photographer during his years at Wake Forest University, his alma mater. He worked as a journalist for the News & Observer in Raleigh before studying photography. His years as a photojournalist began his keen ability to chronicle life through images. Atkinson moved to Norfolk in the 1980s and became the photo editor of Commonwealth Magazine. Ultimately, he opened a studio and started doing more commercial work including advertising. In 2000, Atkinson and a partner opened Otto Design + Marketing, an award-winning, full-service design and advertising agency headquartered in Norfolk. Atkinson is one of the only creative directors who also specialize in photography and video.
