Violent reds and yellows move with the wind like a fierce wildfire.  The flames are caught in mid-air by the twisted limbs of a maple tree.  Icy, blue branches lurk above while a sea of green shrubbery surrounds the fiery leaves.

A scene so surreal, it’s color so vivid, “Under the Dwarf Maple” comes to life at first glance. It is one of approximately 70 photographs that are being featured in the Schauerman  Library lobby.

“The image I submitted shows a kind of mystical environment landscape that exists at Lithia Park in Ashland, Oregon,” Kurt Weston, photographer said.

As a tribute to National Poetry Month, the photography department based its annual Student Photography Exhibition around a poem titled “Ithaka” by C.P. Cavafy.

“I selected the poem because it talks about the experience of the physical and cultural world,” Darilyn Rowan, photography professor said. 

“It’s perfect for students who are beginning to explore their own lives and the rich possibilities it might hold.”

The 44 beginning to advanced students participating in the show were allowed to submit black and white and/or color photographs. The exhibit also displays a wide range of media from digital images to Holga prints.

“I was focusing more on the positive aspect of the poem and that you have to try and enjoy the journey of life,” Jason Riney, 29, photography major said.

Among the advanced students who had the choice of displaying two photos in the show, Riney’s first photo, “Madrona Reflections,” captures the subtlety of the trees at the Madrona Marsh. His second, “Evening Stroll in Palos Verdes,” features a woman and her dog on a winding path.

“There are a lot of things that are beautiful along the road in life,” Riney said.

Last Friday night’s opening reception was filled with a mixture of music, poetry and  photography.

Rowan read Cavafy’s poem to start off the reception. 

Music professor Ann Patterson’s student jazz combo performed various jazz compositions including a piece inspired by the featured poem.

“The arts sustain people intellectually and emotionally, and they are an important part of a student’s education,” Rowan said.

The next exhibition will take place at Paul’s Photo in November and the photography department is considering the topic of “injustice” for the theme of the show.

“What the exhibitions reflect is the learning that we have created in the photo department,” Rowan said.

The exhibit, Rowan said, was made possible by the help and support of curator Lyn Watanabe, Ed Martinez, Barbara Jaffe, Albert Romero, Arethra Collins, Ann Patterson and the jazz combo, and the students involved.

“During difficult financial times, I think the arts play a very special role by giving people hope and inspiration,” Rowan said.