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Fencing photography exhibit captures strength, grace

By Contributor On Jan 21, 2016 174 0

Contributed by: UHCL Art Gallery

HOUSTON, January 15, 2016 — Experience a breathtaking vision of the sport of fencing when University of Houston-Clear Lake’s Art Gallery presents Serge Timacheff’s “Change of Engagement” Jan. 22 through March 31. Art enthusiasts can meet the artist during an opening reception 5-7 p.m., Jan. 21, at the gallery located on the first floor of UHClear Lake’s Bayou Building, 2700 Bay Area Blvd., Houston.

Timacheff, a 1985 graduate of UHCL, has been the official photographer for the International Fencing Federation for more than a decade. Of the millions of pictures he’s take over his career, nearly 30 have been curated for the exhibit, which is also his first solo gallery showing.

PHOTO: U.S. fencer Jonathan Tiomkin soars above Russian opponent Renal Ganeev in the bronze-medal bout of the men's team foil competition at the Athens Olympic Games. Russia went on to win, 45-38. Photo courtesy of UHCL Art Gallery. — U.S. fencer Jonathan Tiomkin soars above Russian opponent Renal Ganeev in the bronze-medal bout of the men’s team foil competition at the Athens Olympic Games. Russia went on to win, 45-38. Photo courtesy of UHCL Art Gallery.

The European-born artist and accomplished fencer understands the sport. When his son began fencing, Timacheff’s competition photographs brought him to the attention of the president of the International Fencing Federation, and he was invited to become the official photographer for the organization. As part of his duties, Timacheff has traveled the world and photographed three summer Olympic Games.

Jeff Bowen, coordinator of audience development at UHCL’s Art Gallery, said the photography offers a rich, powerful view of the sport.

“I’m really interested in themes of athletic prowess, moments of greatness, the determination of the human spirit. These captured moments in time do a terrific job of celebrating athletic achievements,” he said. “A visitor to the gallery might be inspired to appreciate a sport that isn’t widely broadcast. It’s not on the same radar as football, baseball or basketball.”

The exhibit will also feature photography from locations Timacheff has visited during his career.

“He’s someone who really gets to see the world. It’s only through traveling that we get such broad perspectives on life,” said Bowen.

The reception is open to the public at no cost, and free parking is available in the Visitor Lot or Student Lot D during the event. After the reception, exhibit hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m. – noon.

For more information, visit http://www.uhcl.edu/artgallery or contact Bowen at 281-283- 3376.