50 YEARS of Film Photography

Plymouth Arts Center Presents: 50 Years of Film Photography A Retrospective Exhibition by William Lemke

Step into a world where light, shadow, and story come together through the timeless craft of traditional film photography.

The Plymouth Arts Center proudly presents “50 Years of Film Photography,” a compelling retrospective exhibition featuring the work of Waukesha artist William Lemke, whose hand-crafted photographs capture five decades of quiet beauty, human connection, and fleeting moments preserved on film.

The public is warmly invited to celebrate the exhibition and meet the artist at an opening reception on Friday, March 6, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 pm. Guests will enjoy an evening of art, conversation, and live piano music by Dan Ognavic. Admission is free and all are welcome. The exhibition is generously sponsored by Sargento.

In an age dominated by digital imagery, Lemke’s dedication to traditional photographic methods offers visitors a rare and authentic experience. Each piece is carefully hand-processed using time-honored darkroom techniques, resulting in richly detailed silver gelatin prints that reveal both technical mastery and heartfelt storytelling. The exhibition will be on display in Gallery 110 North through May 8.

William Lemke’s Artist Statement: As a photographic artist, my work is a sincere reflection of my encounters with the world, preserving fleeting moments in time through the lens of my camera. Each photograph is a narrative, a mood, and an emotion encapsulated within the frame, whether I am capturing the serenity of a landscape, the intricate beauty of a plant, the architectural grace of a structure, or the essence of a person. While my focus leans toward nature, I often find that the true spirit of a moment is enriched by the presence of people, making them indispensable collaborators in my artistic journey.

William’s artistic process is labor intensive; he meticulously hand-processes each sheet and roll of film to produce negatives that are then transformed into images through the delicate art of enlarging. He finds beauty and authenticity in relying on traditional hand tools to enhance his prints, where highlights and shadows emerge through careful craftsmanship on silver gelatin paper.

The Plymouth Arts Center is a nonprofit community arts organization founded in 1993 to promote and nurture the visual and performing arts throughout Western Sheboygan County and beyond. Its mission is to Enliven the Spirit of our Community and Enrich the Lives of All by Providing Diverse Experiences in the Arts. Wisconsin artists are showcased in Gallery 110 North in six uniquely different exhibits each year.

Gallery Hours: Tuesday, Thursday & Friday: 10 am–4 pm Wednesday: 10 am–6 pm Saturday: Noon–3 pm Closed Sunday, Monday & holidays

Visit the Plymouth Arts Center at 520 East Mill Street, downtown Plymouth, online at PlymouthArts.Org, or call 920.892.8409 for more information.