Throughout 2015 the residents of São Brás de Alportel have been celebrating a centennial. In 1915 their town gained status as an independent municipality (Câmara).
Festivities to mark 100 years have been recorded by the Algarve Photography Group (APG) and images, collected by Gordon Railton and Dianne Watson, have been compiled into a limited edition book, titled simply ‘100’.
On Friday, September 25, complimentary copies of the book were presented by Mary McClay, president of the APG, to Vitor Guerreiro, São Brás mayor, and Emanuel Sancho, director of Museu do Trajo.
The event was held at the museum to coincide with the opening of a photographic exhibition. Organised by the group’s committee, it is one of several popular social occasions attended by group members and the public. Often attracting close to 100 visitors, refreshments are provided and there is the opportunity to vote for a favourite photograph.
The APG was conceived six years ago by three enthusiastic photographers. Subsequently, it has grown into a group of more than 40 members. Ranging from top professionals to absolute beginners, members meet twice monthly for practical workshops and lectures conducted in the English language.
There are also regular photographic challenges and outings, followed by afternoons where members show and compare their images.
Recording the centennial celebrations on their cameras, members of the APG have created a book that they believe is worthy of the Câmara’s archives!
For more information, email Mary McClay at [email protected]
By Carolyn Kain
Photo: Presentation of centennial book ‘100’: From left, Mary McClay, president of the Algarve Photography Group, Vitor Guerreiro, president of São Brás Câmara and Emanuel Sancho, director of Museu do Trajo.
Photo by: PETER KAIN
