Altama Awards Top Photography Prizes

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The Altama Museum of Art & History celebrated the opening of the their new photography exhibit by awarding prizes for the best submissions from the public on August 14.

This new exhibit – titled “Where the Light Falls: Roots & Roads in the South” – showcases local photography and captures the essence of Southern culture. Local photographers of all ages submitted their work not only to be showcased in the museum, but also to be judged by a panel of photography experts.

On August 14, community members and photographers gathered at the Altama for the official opening of the exhibit, during which The Altama Museum of Art & History Executive Director Donna Belcher announced the winners of each category.

Belcher began the awards ceremony by addressing the crowd and sharing her gratitude for the community’s involvement with the show. “This is an awesome way to celebrate all of these amazing photographers. Some of them have really gotten out of their comfort zone and submitted art for everyone to see. I think that’s fantastic, and I really appreciate them for sharing their vision with us,” she emphasized. “Our judges definitely had their work cut out for them judging all of these pieces because there is some amazing work here.”

The winners of the Junior Division (ages 12 and under) and Youth Division (ages 13-17) each received a ribbon and a certificate for $25 of Downtown Vidalia Association (DVA) Dollars, which can be used at participating downtown businesses. The winner of the Adult Division was given a ribbon and a $100 gift certificate to K.E. Butler Jewelers.

Alisa Yentasky was the champion of the Junior Division, as her photo “Summer Fun Says Goodbye” captured the hearts of the judges.

Jasmine Muniz took home the ultimate prize for the Youth Division, as her photo “Road to Opportunities” captivated audiences.

Three placements were announced for the Adult Division. Theresa Alonso earned the grand prize with her photo, “Dripped in Light, Loyalty, and Reverence,” which not only displayed Alonso’s eye for details but also showcased her skills as a talented photographer. Joel Palmer was awarded second and third place in the division for his works, “Old Gas Pump” and “A Casualty of Helene.”

Votes are still being cast daily for the People’s Choice Award prize, which will be given to the photo which receives the most votes from the public throughout the remainder of the show. The exhibit will be on display during Museum hours until Wednesday, September 24.

The Altama Museum of Art & History is located at 611 Jackson Street in Vidalia, and is open from 10 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays. For more information, call (912) 537-1911.

YOUTH DIVISION WINNER – The Altama Museum of Art & History Executive Director Donna Belcher, The Altama Museum of Art & History Board Member Lachele Yancey, Jasmine Muniz.Photo by Makaylee Randolph

ADULT DIVISION RUNNER-UP – The Altama Museum of Art & History Executive Director Donna Belcher, The Altama Museum of Art & History Board Member Lachele Yancey, Joel Palmer.Photo by Makaylee Randolph

JUNIOR DIVISION WINNER – Front: Alisa Yenatsky. Back: The Altama Museum of Art & History Executive Director Donna Belcher, The Altama Museum of Art & History Board Member Lachele Yancey.Photo by Makaylee Randolph