Exhibit by C.a. Shofed at Hutchins Galleries Pushes Boundaries in Photography

by Kaci Treasure

C.a. Shofed's photography captures the essence of overlooked things, turning them into stunning works of art. Whether it may be rusted fire hydrants or weathered stones, he sees the beauty in it all.  Come see the world through a new lens in his upcoming exhibit “Chasing Turner,’ in Lawrenceville's Hutchins Galleries, on exhibit from February 24, 2024 - April 19, 2024.

Shofed's artistic journey began at the age of 16 while a resident in Trenton, N.J. This experience greatly influenced his artwork, which is a mixture of both technological expertise and a deeply rooted passion for the beauty that is the vibrant community of Trenton. With this inspiration, he found his unique style - an exploration of “industrial meets nature,” capturing the beauty in ordinary objects shaped by passing of time. “I was enjoying finding beauty in things that are not naturally considered beautiful,” said Shofed.

He continually seeks to push the boundaries of photography by working to refine his captured pictures by only using the editing features within his camera to create his art.  “I am not worried so much about the technical aspect and perfection of a picture. I’m more concerned with capturing a moment and sharing that moment with my audience,” said Shofed.

The photographer shared that he has been increasingly drawn toward abstract scenes, describing how reflections in pools of water or in the glass landscape of large cities brighten or distort colors and shapes. “This in turn has led me to experiment with abstract photography. Ordinary shapes and forms twisted while being reflected towards my lens,” he said. He refers to his camera as “more of a paintbrush than a piece of technology,  built to reproduce exactly how we see the world and why my influences are painters such as J.M.W Turner or Maurice Pendergast.”

When asked about his choice of The Lawrenceville School as the venue, Shofed’s enthusiasm was evident. “The Hutchins Galleries are simply beautiful. The opportunity to show in such a wonderfully lit open space is the dream of many artists. My art sets up wonderfully in this space. Whenever I meet students passing through this space they seem receptive to whatever content is presented to them”.

For the Lawrentians specifically, who will explore his exhibition, Shofed aims to evoke a sense of contemplation and peace. “I hope my art slows down each student that walks through the gallery, making them wonder or giving them some peace for a moment”.

Overall, Shofed’s hope is for each person to find their own meaning or message in his artwork. “I've always felt once I create a piece of art and present it out in the world it's no longer mine. It's whatever the viewer decides it should be. Art speaks to us all individually.”

 The Hutchins Galleries are the home of the Lawrenceville School's permanent collection of art and a host for rotating exhibits of working, regional artists. They are located on the Lawrenceville School campus within The Hutchins Center, adjacent to the Gruss Center for Art and Design. The main entrance for the Hutchins Galleries is at the rear of the building and can be accessed during viewing hours.

The Hutchins Galleries are open on weekdays from 9 a.m.-noon and from 1- 4:30 p.m. and on Saturdays, from 9 a.m.-noon. The Galleries are also open by appointment – please email hutchinsgalleries@lawrenceville.org to schedule.

For additional information, contact Lisa M. Gillard H'17, director of public relations, at lgillard@lawrenceville.org.