There are, of course, some standouts at PhotoLA that caught our attention. When you see this much work, things separate in your memory and rise.
One of these was the work from artist Holly Andres, currently on exhibit at the DNJ Gallery in Los Angeles
[photopress:handres_b_04.jpg,full,centered] © Holly Andres

What drew us to this work was the narrative. Each image from the series we saw, gave us the opportunity to walk into the image and create a story.
As the illustrative segment of photography appears to be growing, this young artist creates a fairly cinematic story in still images with a plot line for the viewer to explore. The concept that draws us in to this image, is also the thought of it hanging on one of our walls. You could ruminate on the possibilities forever. Some images hang and hit you in the gut, some just grow with you.
You should at the very least, visit the gallery site to see the rest of the series.
Admittedly not all of the images have the same impact. There are a few that go over the top and don’t really leave a lot of room for the observer. The concept works best when there is a slight mystery to the scene.

From the press release:
“This series tells the story of four fair-haired adolescent girls discovering hidden truths in the rooms and
backyards of the fictional world of “Sparrow Lane.” The girls, peering into a secret doorway or
unlocking a closed door, begin the search for forbidden knowledge. Andres’ use of familiar iconography,
such as mirrors, birdcages, secret passageways, and skeleton keys, hints at possible meanings in these
dramatically rich scenes. Her vibrant colors and theatrical staging dispels any disturbing undertones the
images might have; the audience, as a result, becomes drawn to the photographs’ allusive and
metaphorical qualities.”

The best news is that this is a young artist, so the promise of even greater things to come is pretty exciting.

Currently on exhibit at PhotoLA and DNJ Gallery.