Ian Ruhter Unveils Monumental Exhibition “The Lake” in Tahoe

Ian Ruhter, an internationally acclaimed photographer, is set to showcase his latest exhibition, titled The Lake, at the Haldan Gallery of Lake Tahoe Community College. The exhibition will run from October 9 to December 11, 2023, and features contemporary ambrotypes and tintypes, marking a significant return to his roots for the artist.

The public is invited to join Ruhter for an opening reception on October 9 from 5 to 8 p.m. This momentous event not only highlights his artistic journey but also celebrates the place where it all began for him. Ruhter’s connection to Lake Tahoe is deeply personal; he discovered his passion for photography in a class at LTCC after being diagnosed with dyslexia as a child.

Using a simple pinhole camera crafted from an oatmeal container, Ruhter began to express his unique worldview through photography. “At 26, I finally felt like I was able to speak,” he recalls, emphasizing how this early experience laid the foundation for his future success.

Revolutionizing Photography

As the photography industry leaned towards digital methods, Ruhter sought authenticity in traditional processes. His rediscovery of wet collodion photography, a technique dating back to the mid-19th century, propelled him into groundbreaking territory. By transforming a box truck into the world’s largest wet plate camera, he produced monumental ambrotypes and tintypes, with some pieces measuring an impressive 96 by 66 inches. This innovative approach established him as a noteworthy figure in contemporary photography.

Despite achieving recognition through exhibitions in major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Paris, Ruhter always envisioned presenting his works in the very location that inspired him. The Lake brings his dream to fruition, featuring 68 images, including two of the largest wet collodion plates ever created.

A Personal and Artistic Homecoming

“This exhibition is more than a homecoming,” Ruhter stated. “It’s about transformation, about finding your voice, and about returning to the place where it all began. For me, the treasure has always been here at the lake.”

Ruhter’s work not only reflects his artistic evolution but also invites viewers to explore the intricate process behind his photography. As visitors engage with the exhibition, they will gain insight into the historical techniques that have shaped his unique vision.

The Lake at the Haldan Gallery promises to be a meaningful experience for both the artist and attendees, celebrating the enduring connection between art and place.