Zachary Dorsch: Cardot says that his favorite photographs in this exhibit are the digital paintings of garden scenes.
“In this exhibit, I am photographing to see what I can transcribe and then through the process of computer decisions – which can be endless — bringing out the essential ‘thing-ness.’”

Gary Cardot opened his photo exhibit, “Anthology: Pictures from the Archive” in the Cummings Art Gallery, on Tuesday, Jan. 10.

Cardot is an assistant professor of art and teaches both photography and art history classes.

“I’ve been teaching full-time at Mercyhurst since 1994, and I love the combination.

“It’s enabled me to understand what is of importance to other people in art and photography,” he said.

This gallery show highlights photographs that have been digitally altered. Computer manipulation plays a large role in Cardot’s photography.

He says that photo editing with programs such as Photoshop is a mix between photography and painting.

While previously highlighted works include compositions of architecture, amusement parks and night scenes, this exhibit focuses on more natural elements.

Cardot wasn’t always interested in the art of photography. He says his fascination began when he started attending alternative films when he was in college.

His previous studies in art history continued as his love for still photography grew. Ultimately, he pursued an MFA in art with a concentration in photography from the California Institute of the Arts.

He continues his education during the summers at the Maine Media Workshops in Rockport. These summer studies here have resulted in his extensive body of work.

When asked how he feels about teaching at Mercyhurst, Cardot instantly replied that he loves the students.

“We get such a variety of ethnic groups, majors, different towns and states students are from, I’m never bored with the students.”

“Anthology” will continue through Feb. 5 in the Cummings Art Gallery, located in the lobby of the PAC. The gallery is open Tuesday through Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. and Thursday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m.