A Review of Jon Chodat’s  “An Eclectic View” Photography Art Exhibit

by Arnold Sauther

 Jon Chodat’s show at forARTSake is in many ways a retrospective. Those of you who plan to attend the exhibit will have the opportunity to see two panels of photos taken in his youth. Here is proof that even a Brownie camera in the hands of a creative, curious and observant individual can provide documents of interest and beauty. By the time, Jon was able to buy a single lens reflex camera, his experiences directed him to subjects that are more challenging.

Jon has some photos of a stint in the Arctic, but most feature Adirondack scenes that include people, animals, landscapes, and man-made objects. His commercial photos are also represented (i.e. weddings, etc). Nevertheless, most of what you will have the opportunity to see in the exhibit can be categorized as fine art.

The cameras on display attest to Jon’s technical ability, knowledge, and experience. The 4 x 5 format was a favorite of his for a long time, and he speaks of returning to it. This preference reflects Jon’s concern for fidelity in the large prints that he makes, but he has found that digital photography also has a high resolution. Very much in step with today’s world, Jon says he is now comfortable with digital photography and is adept at using Photoshop and Painter.

The clarity and detail in his photos suggest that he is a master of his craft. Jon would tell you, however, that technique is just a means to an end. His photography in general terms is characterized by a love of nature and strong sense of design. His images are what one romantic called an “epiphany of the ordinary”. Common subjects take on an uncommon aura. Men in their workplaces become symbols of dignity and pride. Farm and industrial environments become testaments to a way of life. Ordinary scenes look extra ordinary when photographed at a precise moment.

Jon has a lot of stories about patience and persistence in securing the right light for the mood he wanted a particular photo to convey. He says that being there is, of course, half the battle, and Jon knows the places to go and when he has to be there even if it means returning again and again. Some of his scenes are the same subject shot in different seasons, and each has its own visual appeal.

Other variations on a theme include unique formats, panoramas, and color manipulations. The manipulations, according to Jon, are used only when a special effect is needed. One example is a photo of a boy in blue riding a red bike against a neutral background. The graphic effect is eye-popping. Another is a lily pad that has an ethereal glow.

Jon usually prefers straight photography. An example of this tradition and one of my favorites is his photo entitled “Security”. It shows a close-up of a house door with a multitude of locks, handles, bars, and latches obviously to secure something of great value within. This sentiment is clearly communicated in the exquisite detail and use of subtle earthy tones of brown, gray, and rust. Jon has framed all of this in a close-up composition of surfaces full of patterns and textures. The unity and variety help to create its strong formal appeal. It is at once a complex image of a door and a revealing statement about human nature. The photo is a testament to Jon’s aesthetic and moral sensitivity.

Jon has many photos that communicate messages. They range from the humorous to the spiritual. Look for the boy with goggles for a good laugh. Note the school lunch trays for a lighthearted moment. Turn to the large skull for a “memento mori” or a remembrance of death. Gaze in awe at the orange sunset with silhouetted birds. The everyday autumn experience of taking a walk at Rotary Lake comes to life as you witness the drama of Canada geese in flight. In fact, this photo entitled “Canadian Trio” was not only chosen as the cover piece for this exhibit but also won Best in Photography in a recent art exhibit entitled Flight at the Adirondack Visitor’s Interpretive Center at Paul Smiths.

Perhaps Jon’s images make you aware of the profound effect a work of art can have on what and how you think and feel about the everyday life around you. Jon presents his subject and surroundings in a way that implies there are secrets in nature to be unveiled. He takes a definite point of view and opens the subject for inspection and contemplation. Only a true artist like Jon Chodat is able to do this successfully.

When you go to forARTSake for Jon’s Exhibit entitled An Eclectic View opening March 3 with an artist reception from 6 to 8 and continuing through March 24, you will see pieces of Jon Chodat’s world in a variety of aspects. Enjoy this very creative, unique, and natural photographer and his views of life living in the North Country.