Seeking Asylum photographer and Central State Hospital mini museum founder Jessica Whitehead recently visited the Georgia capitol to display her art in the Art of Georgia exhibit.
“Art of Georgia” captures the “diversity and uniqueness of communities and landscapes throughout Georgia,” according to its website. Established in 2012, it provides hundreds of artists a chance to put their pieces on display primarily in the executive offices of the state capitol and the ballroom of the governor’s mansion.
“My artwork will be displayed in the capitol building,” said Whitehead. “On Feb. 26, I traveled to the capitol to drop off my photograph and I was able to briefly meet with the governor, his wife, Senator Rick Williams, and Lt. Gov. Burt Jones of the state of Georgia.”
Whitehead submitted a photograph titled “Baby Cows at Torrance Farms.”
The photo showed an up-close point of view of calves at Torrance Farms owned by Al Burgamy.
“When driving around the country you always see cows but it’s rare that someone can get close-up to cows they see passing by,” said Whitehead.
“I wanted to capture a perspective most people would not be able to see but would relate to as a common scene in our area.”
This was Whitehead’s second year entering the contest. She was exhibited last year as well and feels the experience is unique.
“No matter your political affiliation, getting to see the work at the capitol and in the legislature is interesting. It’s always busy,” said Whitehead.
“It’s humbling and flattering to be exhibited in the capitol.”
Whitehead said she plans to enter one of her Central State Hospital landscape photos next year.
“I’ve been preparing to release the Seeking Asylum photography book and its release is approaching,” said Whitehead. “After its release, I will be hosting a few author talks and book signings. And next year, I will enter one of Seeking Asylum’s photos. I have an idea of which building it will be, but I have not yet committed to that choice.”
Whitehead plans to focus on her marketing and events related to Seeking Asylum’s book and work toward next year’s exhibit to “tell the story at the capital and inspire legislators to take a look at the mental health system and make improvements.”