CLAYTON – As part of National Arts and Humanities Month, celebrated throughout October, Clayton Visual Arts (CVA) proudly announces Al White as the first-place winner of Capturing Clayton 2024, its biannual photography contest.
His stunning photograph of the historic T.R. Lee Oil and Gas, a family-owned station on West Main Street, earns him the top prize of $700. The image stands out from more than two dozen entries with Town of Clayton employees selecting the winning photograph. It captures the essence of a local landmark that has been part of the Clayton community for more than 60 years.
Although White has 40+ years of photography experience, he wasn’t initially planning to enter the contest. An unplanned moment inspired him while taking a backroad to Clayton instead of his usual highway route. He encountered T.R. Lee Oil and Gas and was immediately captivated.
“It reminded me of the old-timey gas stations in New Orleans, with lots of brick and not too much chrome,” White shared. “The first time I passed it, I thought, ‘I’ll be back.’ When I heard about the Capturing Clayton contest, I knew it was meant to be.”
His uncles introduced him to photography during White’s upbringing in New Orleans, sparking his passion as both a photographer and artist. After serving in the Navy, he fully embraced his artistic path, opening a photography studio in New Orleans before relocating to North Carolina in 2005. Once settled, White quickly engaged with the local art scene and joined CVA.
Reflecting on his experience, White said, “The first time I came to Clayton to see the public art, I thought, ‘Wow, they’ve really got something special here.’ Clayton has it together.”
White’s admiration aligns with the Town’s commitment to fostering a vibrant art community. As part of this dedication, Clayton established a Public Art Advisory Board, which oversees projects including Greenway Art installations, the Sculpture Trail, and various downtown murals.
CVA supports these efforts with a public art display in the lobby of Town Hall (111 East Second Street). The Capturing Clayton exhibit series alternates between a photography contest held in even-numbered years and an art contest in odd-numbered years. Its 2024 entries were displayed throughout May, showcasing artists’ interpretations of the town’s unique charm.
“Our goal with these contests is to inspire artists to discover the beauty around them in Clayton, to share their work with the community, and possibly make a sale, all while enjoying the spirit of competition,” said Medrith Nuttle, CVA’s Exhibits Chair.
Founded in 1999, Clayton Visual Arts is dedicated to promoting and supporting visual arts within the Clayton community. The organization hosts monthly exhibitions, competitions, and educational events, led by a passionate group of volunteer artists, educators, and art enthusiasts.
