Terry Konrath

August 28 - December 2, 2023

Terry Konrath is a passionate advocate of the "Slow" movement, a cultural philosophy rooted in the idea that quality, tradition, and meaningful human connections should take precedence over speed and mass production. Konrath applies this ethos to the art of photography. She uses a 35mm film analog camera and delves deep into the heart of Louisiana, capturing the essence of its people and the traditions that have shaped the state.

• PRESS RELEASE

Artist Statement

I am part of the “Slow” movement, understanding that speed does not always yield the best results. The connections and experiences that I have with my sitters during my photography process is equally important to me as the image itself, and I use a 35mm film analog, no-frills, very slow camera.

The Slow cultural movement grew from the Slow Food Movement initiated by Carlo Petrini, which advocated for the protection of small, family-run restaurants and their commitment to sourcing and preparing ingredients in traditional ways. Petrini stressed the idea that quality and not quantity, keeping cultural traditions alive, and savoring time with each other is what is most important in our collective human experience.

Since my high school graduation in Bossier, I have photographed family and friends as well as the arts & crafts and musical traditions throughout the state. Most recently, as the Ross Lynn Foundation’s 2020 Artist in Residence, I turned my lens toward the food aspects of Louisiana. I documented Old School restaurants that hold historical significance to the area, the New School chefs who are adding more spice to the pot, and the farmers who focus on producing ingredients with sustainable methods and healthy land management practices.

My responsibility to record and archive as a culture bearer is important to me, and I am very aware of the honor I am granted when invited into people's private spaces. My camera has allowed me to witness and share how people's lives have unfolded and capture the holy trinity of Louisiana’s folk arts, music, and food traditions in this exhibition of our visual cultural gumbo.