A group of photographers from the Erie area came together in 1991 to promote and support fine art photography in Northwestern Pennsylvania by showcasing the work of the people taking the photos.

Ten years later, the Photographic Arts Society of Northwestern Pennsylvania still achieves this goal. The organization will mark its first decade as a non-profit organization with an exhibition of its members. “Celebrating 10 Years” will open on Friday and run through September 28 at the Glass Growers Gallery, 10 E. Fifth St.

Organizers said the show will feature scenic landscapes, richly toned nature and wildlife images, as well as monochrome, abstract and impressionistic photographs. Featured photographers will include PASNWPA members Jack Anon, Alex Cohen, Candy Felege, Christine French, Melinda Isachsen, Dorothy Kloss, Patti Larson, Kathy Maloney, Brian Matthews, John Misterovich, Bob Raydo, Patty Raydo, Rebecca Samler, Monica Schwegman, Anna Marie Senita, Rodney Spencer, Mary Kay Talarico, Will Vitanyii III, Barbara Weaver, Kathy Welte, Gayle Winslow and Greg Zbach. They will be at the opening reception to discuss how they are bringing the visions of their photographic creations to life, according to reports from Larson, president of the company.

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PASNWPA is the brainchild of Terry Pytlarz, formerly of Erie and now of South Carolina, according to the company. Other founding members included Anon, Misterovich, Jim Steadman, Patty Raydo, and Tony Hunter.

In addition to promoting and showcasing photography, their goals included defining fine photographic art by educating the community with exhibitions and gallery programs, and teaching those who aspire to advance their photography as fine art. arts.

The company has organized numerous workshops, seminars and exhibitions over the years.

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“Having an organization like PASNWPA is extremely important because it is a clear and concise reminder that photography is and always will be a valid art form,” Samler said. Keeping our fine art niche alive. If we can continue. to arouse emotions with our images, it seems that we have succeeded. “

To see

What: Photographic Arts Society of Northwestern Pennsylvania Exhibition “Celebrating 10 Years”

When: From Friday to September 28. Opening Friday, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Normal gallery hours, Monday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays, 10 am-6pm; Saturdays, 11 am-4pm

Or: Glass Producers Gallery, 10 E. Fifth St.

Cost: Free

Info: www.pasnwpa.org, [email protected], 814-453-3758, glassgrowersgallery.com