Ira Merritt
/biography
/bio
I am a Bronx Boy, born and bred. A photographer, videographer, print-maker, and educator. Beginning as a photographer, I have exhibited both in fine art venues, and in the commercial field. My commercial work began as a media specialist at Lehman College’s Educational Program in 1975. As a freelance photographer and videographer, I worked through the DENA photo agency as well as a number of others). As a teacher, with 30 years on the job, I taught photography, the last twenty-one at the High School of Art & Design.
My work and exploration of creativity is always evolving. For me, the artist's role is to dig into the elements that shape an inner dialogue - fears, dreams, fantasies, and memories. An artist must probe the “dark” corners to discover the “essence” of what is personal and yet universal at the same time. My work is meant to draw you in and repel you at the same time. I want my images to be beautiful and beckoning, but it is understood that beauty comes at a price.
Shows and Awards:
Bronx Council on the Arts Community Arts Fund for a photographic project “Photo – Synthesis.”
2010 BRIO (Bronx Honors Its Own) individual artist award for photography (my 4th BRIO).
Exhibitions include:
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Lehman College (Photographing Woodlawn, curated by Susan Hoeltzel,
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The Taiwan Cultural Center (Visions: Internal and Observed – an exhibit of both etchings and photos, 2007),
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The School of Visual Arts (Internal Politics – an exhibit of etchings 2006),
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Krasdale Art Galleries ( curated by Sigmund Balks in White Plains & the Bronx – Best of the Bronx Part II - etchings, 2007)
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Longwood Arts Gallery at Hostos Community College ( Every Day is like Sunday, curated by Edwin Ramoran – prints 2006).
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Solo photographic exhibition at the Educational Alliance in downtown Manhattan, 1981
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New York Foundation for the Arts Boot Camp Program.at the Governor’s Island Festival,