A Line in the Sand

The impressive photo exhibit currently at Gallery Imperato features portraits of Marylanders who, in some way, have taken a stand against, or raised awareness about, domestic violence. Organized by House of Ruth and designed by Alex Castro, the show includes pics of former mayors Schaefer and Schmoke, hotshot journalists David Simon and Jayne Miller, and various activists and volunteers shot by an impressive roster of regional photographers—including Connie Imboden, Marshall Clarke, Christopher Myers, Leo Howard Lubow, and Linda Day Clark.

The work is uniformly strong, but Matthew Kern's mixed media piece inspired by House of Ruth Executive Director Carole J. Alexander wins "best in show." It's an affecting, and effective, meditation on the duality of vulnerability and strength that lies at the core of this issue. And it gives the entire show an added dimension that invites further contemplation and reflection.

A Line in the Sand closes June 27th.