© John Wesley Mannion 
© John Wesley Mannion John Wesley Mannion, who uses various photographic approaches
to explore the psychological effects of space, finds the perfect
subject in the abandoned rooms of the Pennhurst State School
and Hospital.
An exhibit of his images, State School, is featured
in The Atelier Gallery at the Griffin November 13 through January
11.
Pennhurst was opened in a small Pennsylvania town in 1908 to
care for adults and children with mental and physical disabilities.
Years later, overcrowding and deplorable conditions prompted
a class-action suit. In 1977, the institution was found guilty
of violating patientsí constitutional rights. After a
de-institutionalization process to relocate the patients, the
facility was closed in 1987.
Mannion says the project "conveys the subtle texture and
beauty of decay, while simultaneously confronting us with the
reality of this time in our history."
He adds, "At first glance these images are beautiful and
rich with subtle color and streaming sunlight, not unlike the
interiors published in design magazines. On closer inspection,
the images give way to a chaotic reality that looks neglected
and ruinous."
"Through John Wesley Mannionís photographs of the
remains of Pennhurst State School we try to find meaning and
understanding in the institutionís troublesome past,"
says Paula Tognarelli executive director of the Griffin Museum
of Photography.
Mannion is Digital Imaging Manager at Light Work/Community Darkrooms
in Syracuse, NY, and teaches digital photography at Syracuse
University. He has an MFA in photography and has exhibited nationally
and internationally.
An opening reception with Mannion is November 13, 7-8:30 p.m.
It is open to all. Please RSVP by November 6. Prior to the reception,
6:15-7 p.m., Griffin Museum members are invited to an informal
gallery talk by Mannion about State School. Please RSVP by November
6.
The Griffin Museum of Photography is open Tuesday through Thursday,
11:00 am - 5:00 pm; Friday 11:00 am - 4:00 pm; and Saturday and
Sunday, 12:00 - 4:00 pm. The Museum is closed on Monday. Admission
is $5 for adults; $2 for seniors. Members and children under
12 are admitted free. Admission is free to all every Thursday.
For more information, call 781-729-1158 |
