Terry Konrath
I am part of the “Slow” movement, understanding that speed does not always yield the best results. The connections and experiences that I have with my sitters during my photography process is equally important to me as the image itself and I use a 35mm film analog no-frills manual camera.
The Slow cultural movement grew from the Slow Food Movement initiated by Carlo Petrini, which advocated for the protection of small, family-run restaurants and their commitment to sourcing and preparing ingredients in traditional ways. Petrini stressed the idea that quality and not quantity, keeping cultural traditions alive, and savoring time with each other is what is most important in our collective human experience.
Since my high school graduation in Bossier, I have photographed family and friends as well as the arts & crafts and musical traditions throughout the state. Most recently, as the Ross Lynn Foundation’s 2021 artist-in-residence, I turned my lens toward the food aspects of Louisiana. I documented Old School restaurants that hold historical significance to the area, the New School chefs who are adding more spice to the pot, and the farmers who focus on producing ingredients with sustainable methods and healthy land management practices.
My responsibility to record and archive as a culture bearer is important to me and I am very aware of the honor I am granted when invited into people's private spaces. My camera has allowed me to witness and share how people's lives have unfolded and capture the holy trinity of Louisiana’s folk arts, music, and food traditions in this exhibition of our visual cultural gumbo.
Special thanks to the Ross Lynn Charitable Foundation for funding the production of several photographs in this exhibition.
One Shot Brass Band
Ross Lynn Foundation
As the 2021 artist-in-residence of the Ross Lynn Charitable Foundation, Terry Konrath delved into the relationship between farmers and chefs in North Louisiana's food systems. The project highlighted the significance of partnership in promoting sustainable agriculture and creating a vibrant local food culture.
Farmers and chefs have a symbiotic relationship that revolves around freshness, quality, and locality principles. By forging direct connections with farmers, chefs gain access to a diverse range of fresh, seasonal ingredients that inspire their culinary creations. This direct sourcing allows chefs to showcase the unique flavors and characteristics of the region's produce, fostering a deeper connection between the food on the plate and the land it originates from.
Through her slow photography approach, Konrath captures the essence of this partnership, highlighting the dedication and hard work of farmers and the creative vision of chefs. Her images serve as a visual testament to the interconnectedness between land, food, and community, inspiring viewers to appreciate and support the vital relationship between farmers and chefs in creating a sustainable and delicious farm-to-table experience.
Ultimately, this partnership between farmers and chefs creates a positive cycle, where local agriculture thrives, communities are nourished, and consumers are treated to a truly farm-to-table dining experience.
Alicia and Lee DuCote of Raccoon Bend Farms