Photographer Captures Snippets of Life

Gary Swiontek of Arlington Heights treasures artistic freedom and feels compelled to be creative through his photography.

Swiontek, who is exhibiting his work at Rolling Meadows Library, 3110 Martin Lane, through Saturday, Oct. 7, creates photographs “because scenes and snippets of life beg to be photographed.”

The artist believes his documentations of life evoke varied emotions such as peace and discomfort, and that they are thought-provoking.

“I’m open-minded, believing there’s something interesting everywhere, and I portray that in photographs,” Swiontek says.

Many of Swiontek’s photographs are literal interpretations, but abstract compositions also constitute part of his exhibit.

Swiontek prints most of his black and white film images in darkrooms, but he is also into the digital age. “My darkroom is devoid of darkness and fumes, but still affords me creative options that help me document life,” Swiontek explains.

Swiontek’s exhibit is co-sponsored by the Northwest Cultural Council, serving the Northwest corridor. It is a non-profit organization that supports and promotes the work of area visual artists and poets, offering a variety of programs including corporate gallery exhibitions, co-sponsored by businesses, convention and visitors’ bureaus, libraries, and hospitals; art competitions to encourage artists; and poetry readings and workshops.

For more information about the NWCC, you may call 847-382-6922.