The City of Alpine is excited to announce the opening of a new permanent gallery at the Alpine Visitor Center. This gallery is dedicated to showcasing the first-place winners of the annual #AlpineTXPhoto Contest. The official opening reception is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Friday, November 22, where the winners of the 2024 contest will be revealed.
The #AlpineTXPhoto Contest, now in its 14th year, has become a cherished tradition since its inception in 2011. Each year, a different judge is selected to choose the winning photographs, providing a fresh perspective and a diverse array of artistic sensibilities. “I love that each year’s winner comes from a completely different artistic sensibility,” said Chris Ruggia, Alpine’s Director of Tourism and the contest’s administrator. “That gives these selections an incredible variety; you never know what kind of image is going to win from one year to the next.”
Notable judges from previous contests include Marathon-based photographers James H. Evans and E. Dan Klepper, Alpine-based photographers Rachael Waller and Michael Howard, and internationally recognized art director and designer D.J. Stout. This year’s judge, Barbara Richerson, brings over 25 years of experience in news photography, having served as Assistant Director of News & Publications at Sul Ross State University and freelanced for various newspapers and magazines.
The community and visitors are invited to attend the opening reception, which will feature light refreshments and an opportunity to enjoy the artistic achievements of the contest winners. This event coincides with Alpine’s Artwalk, adding a cultural highlight to the festivities.
