Photography Directors Kathleen Clark and Nan Oshin are pleased to announce the launching of a new contemporary photography gallery in partnership with The Icon. The inaugural exhibition features the work of highly acclaimed photographer Hugh Kretschmer, with a broad selection of his wry, surrealistic photographs on exhibit from June 27th through September, 15th, 2009. An opening reception for the artist will take place Saturday, June 27th from 6-9 PM at The Icon's location at 5450 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles.

"The idea is the most important ingredient in my work," says Kretschmer. "I've always appreciated 'concept' because it adds another layer to the illustration or photograph and invites participation from the viewer." An internationally sought-after photographer, Hugh Kretschmer has received numerous awards from organizations including Communication Arts magazine, American Photography, International Photography Awards, Society of Publication Designers and Graphis Photo Annual. His editorial clients include Esquire, GQ, New York Times Magazine, Health, Outside, Fast Company, Rolling Stone and Men's Journal. Kretschmer's commercial clients include: Kohler, Mastercard, The Plaza Hotel, VH1, Evian, Toyota, USPS, Sony and A&E Networks.

With backgrounds bridging the editorial and fine art worlds, gallery directors Kathleen Clark and Nan Oshin have long considered the idea of creating an exhibition space together. "We're very excited to be presented with the opportunity to bring together exhibits around outstanding, emerging and established photographers, and equally thrilled to have the chance to collaborate with the Icon in this endeavor". The premiere exhibit of Hugh Kretschmer's photography will run through the summer, with subsequent exhibits rotating on a bi-monthly basis beginning in September.