As we approach Exhibition Week the regular (and necessary) calls for volunteers can make the whole event seem like a chore. On the contrary, it is the highlight of our year so let’s take a moment to redress the balance and spell out what’s in store.
From Wednesday 16th the main hall will be transformed into an exhibition space and performance venue – its real “raison d’etre”. Our illuminated print stands, on which every contributors work is displayed, will surround the hall and a large TV will show all submitted DPIs, clearly captioned with title, author and any commendation awarded by the judge. Our large projection screen will be erected on the stage in front of the drawn curtains and on Wednesday, the light box will be positioned in preparation for the evening’s inter-club print competition.(We ensure that no stray light will fall on the screen onto which DPIs of the prints are simultaneously projected for the benefit of the audience).
We have once again attracted all the leading clubs on both Wednesday for the Print Competition and on Thursday for the DPI Knock-out event, which provides us with the opportunity to view the very best in competition photography over the two nights. Because we apply a restriction on the number of clubs invited, and therefore on the total number of images to be judged, we also benefit from hearing our esteemed judges comments on each – so much more rewarding than having an instantaneous and voiceless “push-button” system as necessarily employed when vast numbers of pictures have to be handled.
We anticipate a great attendance from supporters of participating clubs on both nights. And of course NCPS will be attempting to knock the likes of Wigan 10, Chorley et al, off their perch – so a full complement of our own members attending these battles should be expected.
Barring disasters, the running of the competitions will be super-efficient as always – no start-up delays, a swift calculation and display of results with a smooth progression throughout – as any large audience have a right to expect. And our popular half-time raffles and refreshments add jollity to the occasion.
So, on Friday we should all be celebrating. Not only is there food and drink a-plenty, we shall also see all our successful images projected on the big screen as the awards are presented. And there’s more! The entertainment will be rounded-off with a special A/V presentation featuring every submitted DPI to the exhibition – with a few unexpected twists for your amusement.
All in all, we have cause for real excitement and anticipation throughout the week. Do NOT miss this!
TONY R
