Rian with Friends, Peyton Fulford, 2017

What We Know: ACP 2021 Ones to Watch

In a simple vignette, the well-composed portrait can make bold statements about culture, values, social norms, and aspirations. It gives a glimpse of humanity, and vulnerability – it can be fragile, iconic, haunting.

The 2021 Atlanta Celebrates Photography Ones To Watch selection by independent curator Mary Stanley features ten emerging and established photographers who are using portraiture to highlight the importance of human connection. They explore personal narratives, dispel myths, and investigate new techniques for uncovering honest depictions of their world and their people. These artists make strong statements about identity and intimacy and raise questions about social norms and family values. They take great care to know their subject(s) and to represent them with empathy. They challenge the viewer to want to know more.

Nydia Blas, Shawn Campbell, Jasmine Clarke, Kristen Joy Emack, Anthony Francis, Peyton Fulford, R.J. Kern, Andrew Lyman, Pierre Solomon, and Gabriella Wyke have each garnered impressive recognition for their work, but more importantly they are assertive and industrious. They continue to dive deep to bring to light that which has meaning and beauty, creating images that will endure and inform.