In a world where self-absorbed 20-somethings wait for nothing except for their 30 seconds of fame, 26-year-old Banff photographer Corrie DiManno isn’t an insta-brat.
She understands the importance of getting the right photograph in the right way at the right time. She also has enough self-discipline, humour and natural talent to allow her to capture images that are laced with social commentary and pleasing to the eye.
This month at the Banff Public Library Art Gallery, DiManno shares InstaEurope, an exhibition of original photography taken in autumn of 2012. An official opening with the artist in attendance takes place, Friday (Sept. 6) from 7-9 p.m. at the library.
Images in the show were snapped with a smartphone and a digital SLR. Ranging from 3x3 inches to 20x30 inches, the framed pieces invite viewers to join DiManno on her European adventure.
Most striking pieces in the show include Make-out Lisa, a couple kissing in front of the Mona Lisa at the Louvre in Paris, Venice’s Secret, a line of drying undergarments above a street kiosk, a series of photos that feature food in the foreground, and famous European landmarks in the background, such as Florence and the Gelato Eating Machine.
“The food shots are really obnoxious,” Di Manno said. “Food photos are kind of pretentious anyways, so I thought I’d have some fun with them.”
But of great importance to DiManno are photos of her grandfather’s house.
“It was such a big deal for me to see the house where my nonno grew up,” she said.
While DiManno takes photographs for a living, she says her wanderlust reminds her of why she enjoys the art of photography.
“When I do travel, it’s more about going back to the passion of photography,” she shares. “(Travelling) gives you more time to observe your surroundings.”
While she’s covered Australia and portions of western Europe, DiManno says she likely won’t be taking any planes to get to her next destination.
“I haven’t even been to Lake O’Hara (Yoho National Park) for crying out loud,” she admits. “I’d like to stick closer to home for now.”
And whether she’s on the road or racing against the clock to get her show hung, DiManno says it’s her support network that continues to make Banff her home, years after taking her first photos of ground squirrels on Tunnel Mountain.
InstaEurope is on display at the Banff Public Library Art Gallery until Sept. 25.
