Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College’s Jackson County Campus Fine Arts Gallery announces the opening of the exhibit “Come Home,” featuring the photography of Alex North.  The exhibit will be open to the public September 5-October 17, with a reception and Artist’s Talk at 12:15 p.m. on Thursday, September 5. The exhibition will conclude with a music faculty recital in the Fine Arts Gallery at 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 17, featuring MCCCC music instructors Kate Sawyer and Dr. Jonathan Mitchell and guest artist Jessica Meltz.

In 2010, Alex North, who is color blind, began his journey with photography when he purchased a “good” camera for his son’s high school graduation. After that, he vowed to learn how to use the camera and find his niche through the lens. 

His reputation for “all or nothing” soon applied to photography, so much so that his wife, Leslie, jokingly started telling friends he had a girlfriend named “Nikky” — a playful nod to his beloved Nikon. She approved of their relationship and gave her full support as Alex embraced his newly discovered passion. 

As a photographer, North said he strives to capture life in a way that celebrates its existence. Whether it is a smile, bloom, sunrise, bird or even a tear, his desire is for people to feel the emotion he felt when taking the photo.  He readily admits the scenes he shoots are not his to claim. He counts it a blessing to share his photos through the talent bestowed and the beauty provided. 

Marc Poole, Jackson County Campus fine arts instructor and gallery director, said, “I have a deep respect for Alex’s dedication to capturing effective compositions. His works involve a great deal of planning, strategy and timing. He captures the essence of the subject matter and presents it in a way to those familiar with the area reminds us of the beauty we live in every day. To those not from here, it gives a glimpse that might seem idealized, yet is the visual truth of that captured moment.” 

The exhibition will conclude with a concert featuring MGCCC faculty members Kate Sawyer, soprano, and Dr. Jonathan Mitchell, piano.  Guest artist Jessica Meltz will join the program on harp. The group will focus on the works of composer Claude Debussy and other French romantics.

Both the opening reception and closing concert are open to the public.  There is no cost to attend.

The MGCCC Jackson County Fine Arts Gallery hours are 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday-Friday. For more information, contact Poole at 228-497-7684.