Parker Reinecker thesis exhibition: 'Running from the Sun'

SCAD presents "Running from the Sun," a thesis exhibition by Parker Reinecker (M.F.A. photography) and the first volume of the artist’s ongoing series reflecting on life in rural America. The exhibited work focuses on small towns in New Mexico along Route 66, the "Mother Road" that serves as a nostalgic trail for those chasing a dream to the West Coast. A combination of the development of Interstate 40 and high poverty rates in New Mexico has led to a loss of tourism along Route 66 in the state. Towns along the historic road have suffered, and these icons of a bygone era have become liminal, almost ghostly spaces.

The story of this pioneering highway provides a vivid backdrop for a personal narrative empathizing with these struggling towns. Reinecker’s images depict places once heralded for their individuality, where people created something out of nothing, instilling pride, love and tradition in their communities with few resources. The heavy use of highlight, shadow and symbolism in the images foregrounds the trials and tribulations of the lower working class, as well as the struggle to define one's identity growing up in these communities. Born and raised in coal country, where a bar and a church grace every corner, Reinecker explores the experience of a blue-collar upbringing, drawing inspiration from his own struggles with identity and poverty and offering touches of humor and hope within the broken dreams of small-town America.

Reinecker’s work has been exhibited in various galleries and museums in the U.S. including the Colorado Photographic Arts Center, Denver; the Academy Art Museum, Easton, Maryland; and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, Atlanta, Georgia. His work has also been featured in national and international publications such as C41 Magazine, Eyeshot Magazine, Dodho magazine and The Photo Review. "Running from the Sun" was nominated in 2016 for a Fine Art Photography Award. A percentage of profits from work sold at exhibition funds initiatives supporting indigenous populations in New Mexico. 

Reception: Thursday, April 25, 5–7 p.m.

The exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.