Farm Photo Exhibit Returns to Blue Moon

Portsmouth photographer John Benford’s series, "Grounding: Small New England Farms" is returning to Blue Moon Evolution in Exeter for a two month exhibit in April and May.

The exhibit includes images from several farms that produce food for the restaurant. Blue Moon Evolution is located at 8 Clifford St. The exhibit can be viewed during restaurant hours; admission is free. There will be an opening reception on Monday, April 9, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

The series consists of portraits of farmers and scenes from farm life, taken primarily on small farms in the Seacoast area.

“I started this project because of how much I love going to our local farmers market,” explained Benford. “I wanted to show my respect for farmers and help promote local food. Blue Moon Evolution is the perfect venue to show this series because they share that commitment to local food and these farmers.”

Blue Moon Evolution sources food from more than 50 local farms, including several of the farms in the exhibit.

“When the art is up and the farmers that produce the food we serve are on the walls, it really resonates with people,” said Kath Gallant, owner of Blue Moon Evolution. “It’s almost like a family portrait – it gives people a sense of connection and pride in our community, our family. I think that’s why people have responded so strongly to seeing the images.

"It’s amazing for the staff, too. When we see (a portrait of) Kate (Donald of Stout Oak Farm), we think, ‘that’s where we get our greens,’ and Tim (Rocha of Kellie Brook Farm), ‘that’s where we get our pork.’”

The series showed briefly at Blue Moon Evolution at the end of January, timed to coincide with the inaugural Food For Thought event at the restaurant. Food For Thought is a dinner and seminar series focused on local food issues. The photos then moved to the Farm Art Gallery at Natick Community Organic Farm in Natick, Mass. for February and March before returning to Blue Moon Evolution.