by Bill Hedrick
It was in the hazy ambience of a bourbon bar filled with soft undertones of jazz that a couple of photographers and visionaries found themselves in deep conversation about establishing a registry for photographic images. “Hey, do you have a pen? Hand me that napkin,” one of them asked. Soon, an idea sparked to life: What if they could create something more? …a platform where, not only the art, but the artist’s legacy could endure? What if this platform could ensure that lost or damaged art could be reborn, long after the artist had passed?
During this pivotal moment, scribbled hastily on a bar napkin, a visionary initiative to immortalize the art and stories of photographers for generations to come was born. It would become the foundation for the International Photographic Arts Collective (IPAC). At its core, IPAC is built around three fundamental elements: the registration of photographic art, artist pages for preserving individual legacies, and the recreation of art for future generations. In this digital age, where the ephemeral nature of art is a constant challenge, IPAC emerges as an essential ally, championing the timeless preservation and appreciation of photographic art.
IPAC is more than just a website. It places immense emphasis on the story behind each piece of registered artwork. Artists, in collaboration with their clients, are encouraged to provide detailed descriptions and narratives for their work. This narrative depth offers viewers and future generations an insightful window into the artwork’s creation, significance, and the artist’s vision, making each piece not just a visual spectacle but a storied treasure.
Categories encompass a broad range of photographic disciplines, catering to the unique styles and subjects embraced by photographers around the world. The platform includes, but is not limited to, categories such as Fine Art Portrait, Portrait, Wedding, High School Senior, Commercial, Landscape, Wildlife and Animal, Digital Art, Albums, and many more. In addition to these, IPAC accommodates numerous other categories, ensuring that every photographic artist, regardless of their niche or specialty, finds a place to preserve and showcase their work. This variety not only reflects the vast spectrum of the photographic field but also underlines IPAC’s dedication to acknowledging and celebrating every form of photographic expression. It is an inclusive platform for all photographers.
The importance of IPAC in the photographic community is best illustrated through the experiences and insights of its member artists. Each artist brings a unique perspective, shaped by their personal journey and professional ethos, highlighting the diverse benefits of IPAC. Rosalind Guder’s connection with IPAC is deeply rooted in her desire to see her work recognized and preserved in its most authentic form. With a career spanning both the USA and Canada and accolades that acknowledge her skill and vision, Guder finds in The IPAC a platform where her work’s integrity and legacy are honored. “IPAC is a haven where my creative expressions are not just stored but celebrated for their authenticity,” she explains. This sense of recognition and preservation is crucial for Guder, as it allows her to ensure that her artistic legacy will endure, maintaining the integrity and narrative of her life’s work.
Award-winning wildlife and portrait photographer Kevin Dooley also recognizes the need to have a platform for preserving photographic art. “The idea of a place to carry on the importance of an image and the ability to keep the image available after the maker has moved on to another world is so important,” he explains. “I love the idea that an image is both protected and made available for future purchase or replacement. I’m excited to watch this idea grow and prosper.”
Judy Reinford’s relationship with IPAC became a personal mission after experiencing the impact of loss through a lifelong friend’s tragedy. A fire had robbed her friend of cherished artworks from an artist that is no longer with us; the ability to recreate these lost treasures became a source of solace and purpose for Judy. The only thing her friend had left was a cell phone image of the original piece. With this image Judy recreated the art the original artist had created then registered it with IPAC giving her friend a sense of security that they never had. “IPAC’s role in safeguarding and recreating these irreplaceable memories has been a beacon of hope, both for me and my clients,” Reinford reflects. Her passion for IPAC is fueled by its capacity to turn loss into enduring memories, offering a tangible sense of continuity and emotional healing. This personal connection underscores IPAC’s role not just as a digital archive, but as a guardian of personal and emotional histories.
The International Photographic Arts Collective stands out not just as a preserver of photographic legacies but also as a hub of educational excellence. In this realm, IPAC functions on a unique two-way street: it’s a place where members can both learn and teach, thereby broadening their professional horizons and personal brands. IPAC organizes a variety of educational programs, workshops, and webinars, led by industry leaders and renowned photographers. These sessions cover a broad spectrum of topics, from technical skills in photography and post-processing to the nuances of artistic expression and conceptualization. Members have the opportunity to learn from the masters of the craft, gaining insights that only years of experience and experimentation can offer. This continuous learning process is vital in an art form that is constantly evolving with technology and cultural shifts.
Conversely, IPAC provides a platform for its experienced members to step into the role of educators and mentors. By teaching, these artists not only impart their knowledge and skills to budding photographers but also enhance their personal brands. Teaching workshops or hosting webinars under the IPAC banner lends credibility and increases visibility within the community. This aspect of IPAC is particularly beneficial for members looking to establish or reinforce their status as experts in their field. Educational contributions can range from technical workshops on lighting and composition to more conceptual classes on storytelling through photography. For members like Judy Reinford, who has a passion for painted animal art, conducting a workshop on integrating painting techniques into photography can attract a niche audience, thereby expanding her brand’s reach.
IPAC encourages its members to take an active role in shaping its educational content. This collaborative approach fosters a vibrant community of educators, each bringing their unique perspective and expertise to the table. For instance, a animal photographer like Judy Reinford can offer insights into capturing animals and turning them into art, while a portrait photographer like Rosalind Guder might focus on capturing the essence of a subject’s personality.
Education at The IPAC is a dynamic and multifaceted endeavor. It’s a space where learning is just the beginning, and teaching becomes a pathway to personal and professional growth. Through its educational programs, IPAC not only nurtures the development of its members but also contributes to the enrichment of the photographic community at large. It hosts annual print competitions, offering a prestigious platform for artists to present their work. This competition is more than just a contest; it is a celebration of photographic artistry, providing recognition and engagement for a community that deeply values photographic excellence.
Furthering its mission, IPAC is engaged in dialogues with various industry bodies, including PPA affiliates and international organizations, to sponsor image competitions. These collaborations create a synergistic relationship, spotlighting the ‘best of the best’ in the industry and providing a digital home for these celebrated works.
IPAC stands as a testament to the enduring power of photography. It represents a new era where art is not just seen but felt and remembered, an era where the photographer’s vision is immortalized. As IPAC continues to grow, it cements its role as a visionary force in the world of photography, ensuring that every artistic vision is not just captured but cherished and celebrated, transcending time and technology.
