2020 MAPS Annual Nature Photography Exhibit (Cancelled)
Originally, our 9th Annual MAPS Nature Photography Exhibit was scheduled to be held during the last week in April. That had to be rescheduled due to the “Stay at Home” mandate because of COVID-19. The folks at the Arboretum generously offered us a mid-June weekend, which back in March sounded safe. Who knew?
Now in the first week of May we can better predict what might happen in the month ahead. Governor Pritzker has laid out the 5 phases to reopen Illinois: https://www.newsweek.com/restore-illinois-five-phase-plan-explained-how-gov-j-b-pritzker-plans-reopen-state-1502243. Currently we are in Phase 2. The best we can hope, and there is no guarantee, is that we might be in Phase 3 in June. In Phase 3, “Gatherings of no more than 10 people will be allowed and face covering and social distancing will continue.” How do we set up and run a successful exhibit with these restrictions?
We are not sure the Arboretum will reopen in June – hopefully it will! Even if it does, we do not know if buildings will be open. Even if buildings are open in June, it would be nearly impossible to hold our Drop-Off Night, hang all the artwork, hold a reception and have an exhibit weekend with Phase 3 restrictions. All our volunteers, members and visitors could be at risk.
Some of you have suggested an online exhibit. We considered this and decided against it. Exhibitors’ artwork is so much more breathtaking in person, being able to see special printing, matting and framing techniques. Viewing the jpegs of these pieces online just does not do them justice.
Therefore, we are cancelling this years’ annual exhibit. It will not be rescheduled. We are very sorry to give you this disappointing news. Please hold on to all your beautiful artwork for next spring. We can’t wait to see it….in person!
