by Patrick Ledwell

Opportunity Knocks 2005, an exhibition of the work of Graphic Design, Interactive Multimedia, and Photography and Digital Imaging students from Holland College opens with an official reception Monday, May 9th at 7pm in the lower lobby of the Atlantic Technology Centre, 90 University Avenue, and will be open to the public free of charge May 10th to May 20th.

Creative visual expression is challenging in a time when information is everywhere, and this exhibit aims to explore the ways in which visual media can communicate clearly and artistically. While design has been changed by technology, its traditional values of balance and harmony have taken on even more importance. These timeless qualities allow compelling messages to reach the viewer within a cluttered landscape.

The theme for the first and second year Photography and Digital Imaging students is Energy, one of this decade's hottest topics. Individual interpretations vary widely -- from time lapse sports photography to digital representations of fantasy places, times and or events, yet all express the concept with dynamic intent! Every image in the photography portion of the show is at least in part of digital origin and will leave the viewer with heightened awareness of what energy can mean, and with a sense of wonder and visual excitement.

The work featured by students from the Graphic Design program identifies some of the wide variety of visual communications we are exposed to every day. The works were chosen by each student and showcase the individual strengths and personal interests of the members of the graduating group. Some are personal explorations, some are client-based projects and some are simple explorations of medium, tool and message.

The Interactive Multimedia showcase will explore how visual design and computers come together to create new forms of visual expression. Students have integrated many media elements -- graphics, animation, video, and the web -- to produce designs that express personal aesthetics and communicate to the broader community.

These projects include a science fiction trailer on DVD, dynamic web sites featuring contemporary music and photography, and sites that serve volunteer initiatives. The exhibit will be animated by a large-screen motion and sound design displaying student work from all programs, which augments traditional media using digital effects.

The programs would like to recognize the support of show sponsors TD Waterhouse Private Client Services and Saunders Investment Group. They also appreciate the venue support from the Atlantic Technology Centre.