The Superior Express -

The Jewell Public Library is hosting an exhibit of photographs taken by Jaci Novak, the daughter of Kenneth and Lena Novak of Randall. She currently lives in Salina.

Though Novak has "always" been interested in photography, it was around 2015 that she began working with digital photography. That format allowed for more creativity than "point and shoot" cameras. Since then, she has been more intensely involved with getting "the shot."

She has traveled to Vietnam, Peru, Tanzania, Africa, Malaysia, Taiwan and several European countries as well as in the United States. The trips to Peru and Africa were led by Jim Griggs. Those trips were specifically designed for photography. Time was taken to ease into the environment and "really watch." These were not "race through and say you did it" trips. On her bucket list – a trip to Iceland.

Jaci Novak, former area resident, holds her photograph "Migration" in the Jewell Public Library.  She is surrounded by other photos she has taken in locations around the world. An artist's reception is being held from 4 to 6 p.m., on May 13, in the Jewell Public Library. The exhibit may be seen during regular library hours.

The photos on display include a set of three pictures taken when the steam engine "Big Boy" went through the area to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Transcontinental Railroad. One includes a train official waving from the engine. Perhaps, she thought after the engine passed, "I was too close." You be the judge.

Novak, like many photographers, first showed her work to family and friends. Now, you can find her on Facebook and Instagram at Jaci Novak Photography. She intentionally takes "a few days, here and there" just to do photography. Part of her philosophy is to change her perspective. "Get high, get low, and just look at things differently."

Jami Underwood, library board member, heard about Jaci Novak and her photography through Novak's parents. Underwood made the contact for the library board and the show is now reality. "So excited for the Jewell Library to host this!" commented Underwood.

An artist's reception will held from 4 to 6 p.m., today (Thursday), May 13. Then you may both meet Novak and view her photographs.

The exhibit can also be viewed during regular library hours - Mondays from 1 to 6p.m.; Tuesdays from 2 to 7p.m.; Wednesdays from 1 to 6 p.m.; Thursday's from 1 to 6 p.m. The library is closed on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.