January 16, 2005
Valdosta - There really aren't words to describe what Paige Dukes saw in Southern Mississippi, but the pictures she took there say it all. "There were just outstanding things to photograph, thing you never imagined you'd see," said Dukes.
Dukes is the public information officer for Lowndes County, and was sent to Hancock County, Mississippi to help in community relations. "We did a lot of critical incident stress relief, a lot of time people in line just needed someone to talk to," said Dukes.
On her trip, she captured these heartwarming images that she wants to share with her community. They're now on display at the Annette Howell Turner Center for the Arts. "The name of the exhibit is Hancock: A Lesson in Compassion," said Dukes.
We've all seen pictures of the destruction the hurricane caused to homes and businesses, but this exhibit is more about the people. "I want people to come in, look beyond Katrina and the devastation, and into the hearts of the people there," said Dukes.
The money to print and frame the photos came out of Dukes' own pocket, but the money coming in from the art show won't be for her benefit. "The photographs are for sale and the proceeds will go to Hancock County for Katrina relief, to help them rebuild their community," said Dukes.
And even though she was sent to Mississippi to help others, the victims there actually helped her. Not just in furthering her career in photography, but in gaining a new appreciation for the blessings she has here.
The pictures will be on display through March second.
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