This is a special issue for PhotoMedia. As we enter our 16th year of publishing, we also return to the field of event production with World in Focus, a three-day event that is sure to be the Northwest's biggest photo event since our own PhotoMedia Expo from 1993 to 1996.
After a year of intense preparation and fast-paced living, all of the components are in place and ready to roll. Slated for June 6-8 in Seattle, the event will bring the photo community together for an exceptional program of education and inspiration.
The emphasis is on nature, the environment and endangered cultures photography, subjects that seem all the more important in a world recovering from war and an economy in crisis.
World in Focus consists of an impressive photo exhibit, showcasing the winners of the World in Focus Photo Contest, and a sensational weekend series of seminars, featuring some of the top names in the business, that are sure to enlighten those who attend.
The keynote speaker of the event is also the subject of this issue's cover story - Art Wolfe. His new book on landscape photography, due out this fall, is previewed in the article and is also the subject of Art's seminar at Benaroya Hall on the evening of June 6. Art continues to break new ground with his exceptional images, creativity and prolific ways. Our feature will whet your appetite to attend his presentation and marvel at his success.
As a counterpoint to Art's vistas in nature, another feature this month looks at the urban landscape as captured by four photographers - Richard Cummins, Kerrick James, Barrie Rokeach and Joseph Sohm - with different approaches and philosophies to achieving their compelling perspectives.
Also in this issue, it is with great pleasure that we present our PhotoMedia Photography Person of the Year for 2002, Natalie Fobes. For the seven years we've been presenting this award, Natalie has perennially been nominated, and now finally gets to own it. The award recognizes "exceptional artistic and business accomplishments, photographic passion, devotion to the industry, inspiration to colleagues and humanitarian achievements in the community." As you will see, Natalie is completely worthy of all those accolades, and is one of the most admired photographers in the business.
On a proud note, we are pleased to report that PhotoMedia was recently honored with a prestigious Maggie Award for publishing excellence, and was nominated in three categories altogether.
As always, please let our advertisers know that you saw their ad in PhotoMedia. Their support is largely responsible for our ability to bring you our in-depth coverage for free. As the nation's economy struggles to regain its momentum, our advertisers need to know, more than ever, that their ad dollars are being well spent.
Have a great summer, and we hope to see you at World in Focus.
Sincerely,
Gary Halpern, Publisher
