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Local photographer earns master artist recognition
Local fine art photographer Jerry Kencke has been named a Western Master Artist by the Western Masters Artists of Great Falls, Mont., home of the Charles M. Russell Art Museum.
In the 40-year history of the organization, the organization has rarely accepted photography as fine art, but Kencke "is one of those rare exceptions," the group said.
Every year since 1969, during the third week of March, Great Falls hosts a festival in honor of noted western artist Charles M. Russell and among the art shows during the week is the Western Masters Art Show, a four-day exhibition and sale of fine art.
As a recently named Western Master Artist, Kencke will be participating in the March 2014 show.
Morgan Cawdrey, the show director, said "in the 40-year history of the show, photographers are rarely accepted. Since we took over the show in 2011, Kencke is the first photographer we've accepted."
Kencke decided to submit, "just to see" and selected five images representing a cross section of his work, including three from his Western Life series, one botanical portrait and one fall scenic.
When the acceptance letter came, "I was delighted, stunned and honored to be accepted. I have long believed that photography can be fine art and it is very gratifying to have my work recognized as fine art by such a prestigious group."
Kencke is looking forward to the opportunity to display some of his larger works in the show. "Each artist gets to exhibit their work in a hotel room that has been emptied of furniture, creating a studio setting."
Locally, Kencke displays his work in the Art Source Gallery and the airport in Boise, juried regional shows throughout the Northwest and several local businesses, including Carmela Winery, AJ's Restaurant, Fitness First and the Featherville Cafe. He also has supported the Mountain Home Public Library and the Glenns Ferry Chamber of Commerce with displays of his art.