Art Show: Patrick Beggan

Local photographer and artist Patrick Beggan of Versa Photography will be displaying a portrait series, entitled “Bellingham at Work,” on March 3rd. The show focuses on images of local craftspeople, entrepreneurs and artists creating in their work environments. The show will be in his studio downstairs at Make.Shift Art Space at 306 Flora St in downtown Bellingham. The public is welcome from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. All inquiriess regarding the show should be directed to the artist at http://versaphotography.com/contact-social-media/

The ten images in the series focus on the nature of work in our culture and how this culture can both cause us to transcend to a higher plane and be dragged down lower. These portrait photos have been developed by the photographer in a distinct visual style that serves to draw out the small details of the moment to capture and create an almost renaissance-painting feel. The distraction provided by being at work allows for the subject to be captured in a moment that shows their true self, rather than the staged nature of a typical portrait.

Included in the show are several well-known local figures, including the head brewer of Boundary Bay Brewery, the roaster and owner of Maniac Roasting, supplier of the Black Drop coffeehouse as well as the Fork at Agate Bay, prolific local artist Ciara Sana and many others. There is a spread of professions ranging from metalworker to soapmaker.

The artist, Patrick Beggan, learned his own work ethic from his grandfather who moved to the US in the 1950s. Hard work was reinforced from a young age. He’s been working since he was 16 years old. Beginning around that age he picked up a camera and has been working in the medium ever since.

Further samples of his work can be found at http://versaphotography.com/portfolio. Email meta474@gmail.com or call 360-383-7800 for any other questions relating to the show or purchasing prints or portrait services.