“These works do not illustrate...they are an exorcism...”
— Louise Bourgeois
There is a peculiar vulnerability in asking strangers to find meaning in something that began as a moment only you noticed.
Fine art photography has become part of my healing journey, which started just under a year ago in Monterey. Well, the healing part started a little bit before the fine art photography journey.
What happens when we allow ourselves anything? We give ourselves permission. Permission to ask, feel, question, relax, enjoy, explore, and whatever else we've been "waiting" for that internal "permission" to do.
I gave myself permission to be fully present, especially in nature. In doing so, I gave myself permission to dream, have aspirations, and start being an active participant in my life.
Oh, don't get me wrong—healing isn't always rainbows and butterflies either. Vulnerability can be a bitch if we're not used to her.
This year, I started entering open calls and competitions. My first was the annual San Diego County Fair Photography Competition. Five photos submitted, five photos rejected.
I was devastated!
I almost let myself give up. I most definitely pouted, cursed, asked why, and finally accepted reality. Instead, I started asking how I could improve. What could I do better? How could I refine my art?
In hindsight, I do see why they were rejected. The San Diego County Fair is pretty tough competition, with approximately 4,690 photography entries this year.
I moved forward. I started developing my portfolio. I walked away from chasing the "pretty postcard" photos. There's absolutely nothing wrong with those; they're just not me.
I scan for beauty instead of danger, giving myself permission to be more present in moments.
I found Black Box Gallery and applied for Trees and Water.
Rejected.
I was disappointed but reminded myself that my art still matters. I kept going.
I entered Black Box again, this time for Black and White. My latest work has started to become more monochromatic.
Why? It strips away the "color noise" and gives us permission to be curious, explore, and see beyond the obvious.
It's kind of funny. I struggle with the unknown on a daily basis, yet that's what I photograph. It's a little therapeutic.
For the almost ten days since the deadline, I went a little cray cray internally. I lovingly referred to it as "Schrödinger's Acceptance"! Neither accepted nor rejected!
Then, the email came!
I got my first juried curation for Measured in Light!
Measured in Light © Edge of Clarity Photo | Elizabeth Chaney 2026
Imposter syndrome took over pretty quickly...don't worry, I reeled that shit in!
Someone else saw what I saw. They agreed with my vision.
Validation isn't necessary, but knowing that others see your art, your vision, your soul, your vulnerability?
That means something to me.
As I am typing up this blog post, I am also anxiously awaiting the email from Praxis Gallery in Minneapolis. Even if I'm not curated again this time, there will be other curations. I am still new to this journey.
...Sorry, haha, I just had Don't Stop Me Now by Queen go through my head...it's a great song. (RIP Freddie).
I ask you, what's stopping you from giving yourself permission to do something?
It's okay to give ourselves permission.
(Just keep it legal...yeah?)
Cheers to my first curation and the more to follow!
Should you find yourself hearing my voice encouraging you to slow down and notice something, I’d love to hear about it. Tag me and use #EdgeOfClarity on Instagram.
Until next time, may you always find something worth noticing.
~Elizabeth
