Local photographer Zack Smith, known for his numerous contributions to the New Orleans’ music scene, showcases his latest endeavors throughout November. Exit Stage Right highlights more than 30 images from the Voodoo Music & Arts Experience in a format new to Smith. His work evolves from year to year as he experiments with different approaches to shooting and background, though always within his typical range of camera use. For 2012, Smith is using stained wood panels to display his work on the walls of a famed French Quarter music venue.
Preservation Hall creative director Ben Jaffe. Photo by Zack Smith, whose latest show runs through November 26 at Preservation Hall.
Since 2000, Smith’s focus has been on the social terrains of New Orleans, and throughout his birthplace in Southwestern Louisiana. Specializing in environmental portraiture, performance, and street documentary photography, Smith’s latest gallery includes an impressive collection of the artists who are shaping NOLA’s musical landscape.
In addition to his long-running participation with Voodoo Fest, Smith currently teaches photography at the New Orleans Academy of Fine Art. He’s staff photographer for the French Quarter and Jazz and Heritage Festivals, as well as the Tulane University Marching Band. Smith is an active member of the New Orleans Photo Alliance and supports the music community as a projection artist, music promoter, and photographer to many local musicians. He’s also a drummer with local bands Rotary Downs and Sunrise:Sunset.
Exit Stage Right runs at the French Quarter’s Preservation Hall (726 St. Peter Street) through November 26. It’s free for locals every Wednesday and Saturday, during the 10:15 p.m. concert.
— Beck “zaelyna” Brexlyn
