“Between Worlds,” a contemporary photography exhibit featuring Cleveland-based artists June Hund, Laura D’Alessandro, and c. a. long, opened last Monday, Feb. 2 at the Cuyahoga County Public Library, Chagrin Falls Branch.

An artist reception on Sunday, Feb. 15, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. is open to the public, and the exhibit continues through Saturday, March 21.
Works by c.a. long and Laura D'Alessandro in 'Between Worlds.'In addition to showcasing her work, Hund also organized “Between Worlds,” which attempts to bring together diverse photographic styles and mediums, including traditional photography, mixed media, and AI hybrid imagery.

The exhibit explores human and industrial themes, presenting moments that move between light and darkness, euphoria and stillness, and personal and cultural existence.

“The exhibition presents a wide array of artwork, highlighting different styles of photography and various mediums,” Hund says, noting that the variety allows for exploration of contemporary artistic expression.

The three artists use distinct photographic approaches to create images that Hund describes as feeling surreal, introspective, and emotionally resonant as they use light and shadow, and a myriad of color palettes.

“Our images together have given us a shared sensibility of moments between wakefulness and sleep,” she explains. “The images create surprising human environments that are surreal or unconventional perspectives.”

All three artists are deeply rooted in Northeast Ohio’s creative community and actively engage in artistic collaboration, including participation in the Rust Belt Photo Collective, a regional group dedicated to supporting and exhibiting local photography.

“The arts scene in Cleveland is lively,” Hund says. “The Cleveland area is rich with culture, art venues, and incredible environmental landscapes.”

Hund, who is an illustrator, photographer, and arts educator, has spent years working and volunteering in the Northeast Ohio arts community. Her work, which is often focused on post-industrial details and overlooked urban landscapes, employs mixed-media photographic techniques and has been featured in both solo and group exhibitions.

She says she enjoys exhibiting her work, as well as the work of other area artists, because it’s a great opportunity to expand and spread their wings in the community.

Works by c.a. long and Laura D'Alessandro in 'Between Worlds.'“Participating in or attending art openings is truly a part of the artist's life that allows them to meet and socialize with other artists along with individuals who share a passion for the arts,” Hund says.

D’Alessandro, a photographer, writer, and educator, has been involved in arts communities across the country for decades. As director of the Cleveland Photo Fest, she has coordinated dozens of events throughout Northeast Ohio—showcasing work by both emerging and established artists.

Her work can be described as ethereal or otherworldly with light dodging techniques and soft tones.

Cleveland-based photographer c. a. long works with both traditional and unconventional film processes. Using expired film, Polaroid film, and alternative techniques, long creates visually striking images that challenge expectations and draw viewers in with the unique and detailed touches.

Together, the three artists’ works shown in “Between Worlds” highlight how different artistic approaches can intersect to provide insights into contemporary photography—and invite reflection on where art stands today and where it may be headed next.

The public is welcome to the artist reception on Sunday, Feb. 15 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Chagrin Falls Library, 100 East Orange St. 44022.