When it comes to artistic photography, many people expect the usual – landscapes, portraits, dramatic interiors. Most probably wouldn’t anticipate rusty cars, old pears, or leaves. But this is precisely what Terry Davenport has captured on camera, perhaps in a way that may surprise viewers.
“Photography allows us to slow down and see the beauty in the sometimes-mundane things that we usually pass by,” said Davenport, who recently retired after 40 years as an instructor and production designer in the cinema department at Bob Jones University, where he taught photography. “We pause and capture a moment—a specific place and time—and reflect on the impact of it. It’s powerful.”
Photography can evoke emotion too: joy, sadness, empathy, or even a call to action. Davenport listed these as possible reactions to a photograph, and the list could go on. Perhaps students would feel a flutter of nostalgia at the sight of an old car interior, or a deep sense of calm at a view of bright sunlight filtering through a lone tree in a field. All these responses and more are possible in photography, especially so when the camera is in the hands of a skilled photographer.
The Bob Jones University Department of Art and Design held a Legacy Exhibition of Davenport’s digital photography during the month of September in the Sargent Arts Building’s Exhibition Corridor.
Davenport said he received questions about his technique and style when he guided students through the exhibition.
“Students find that whenever they view any exhibit, it raises good questions in their minds that enhance their education,” he said. “They may even see something they like too.”
No matter what a student is majoring in, an eye that can critically evaluate and contemplate art is a great skill, he said.
Davenport’s favorite subject matter lately is not typical or even expected.
“I enjoy photographing a variety of subject matter but have gravitated more recently to more of a closeup view of the colorful rust on cars in salvage yards, especially classics of the 1950’s,” he said. “I just like anything nostalgic.”
Fans of classic cars and trucks will no doubt appreciate what Davenport has been able to capture and display.
Some of the photographs Davenport displayed at the Sargent Arts exhibit were edited in unique ways. “Key to the Garden” combines four or more photographs together to represent the entrance to the Secret Garden of literary fame. Some have been shot on a different medium: two mist-covered pictures of Liberty Bridge were photographed on a film camera. There is no doubt that the variety of work will surprise and delight many viewers.
Above all, Davenport prioritizes God in his work.
“Photography allows me to visually express my thoughts, joys, and passions that God has uniquely put within me,” he wrote. “To God be the glory.”
The Legacy Exhibition closed Oct. 1., but Davenport’s art can be viewed online at www.terrydavenport.com.