Harrah recognized as 2013 American Aperture Award winner, selected from more than 1,100 entries

COLUMBUS (November 19, 2013):  Cameron Mitchell Restaurants’ (CMR) associate, Coshocton native and Columbus resident Holly Harrah, recently received the 2013 American Aperture Award for best Abstract in the non-professional category. Harrah’s artwork was selected from more than 1,100 entries representing talented photographers in 63 countries.

“On behalf of the Cameron Mitchell family, we could not be more proud of Holly for this exciting national achievement,” said Diane Smullen, vice president of finance and operating partner.  “Our associates are the foundation for our company, and we strive to be supportive of their dedication and passions both inside and outside the office environment.”

Harrah’s winning entry, “Manhattan with Johnny,” captures the true essence of New York and what it feels like to be in the city. The photograph was not corrected or enhanced in any way and was captured using film.

“I always wanted to be an artist, but I never thought I had any talent until I took the photograph ‘Manhattan with Johnny,’” said Harrah. “As an amateur, I’ve done everything on my own and learned along the way. I’m so grateful for the opportunities this award has given me and for the support of my colleagues and friends.”

Harrah’s artwork has been exhibited throughout the United States and Australia. Top art accomplishments include:

• Participated in Art Takes Time Square 2012 during the Times Square Billboard Premiere Event in Times Square, New York City and will appear in the Art Takes Time Square published book of selected artists from the event
• Photos published in Fabrik Magazine and blog — viewed by collectors, galleries and curators throughout the world
• Published in The Annual, a new iPad/Android App showcasing the World’s Best Photography
• Invitation to participate on ArtCapitol.com, an online platform that promotes and sells art to thousands of collectors worldwide
• Participated in Dutchess County Art Association’s/Barrett Art Center’s 24 Annual National Juried Photography Exhibition Photowork 2011, Poughkeepsie, NY
• Participated in “Never think small-REDUX” exhibit, Climate Gallery, Long Island City, NY, 2010
• Participated in “communication” exhibit, 1650 Gallery, Los Angeles, CA, 2010
• Participated in and published by Glimpses in Time international juried photography exhibition, Joyce Gordon Gallery in Oakland, CA, 2009
• First place for “Non-manipulated Photography Human” and third place for “Non-manipulated Photography Landscape,” The American Art Awards online, 2009
• Published in Direct Art Magazine Volume 15, Fall/Winter 2008
• Part of the Fine Arts Exhibit, Ohio State Fair, 2008
• Participated in Postcards from the Edge Benefit 2007 at the James Cohan Gallery, New York, NY

Harrah’s advice for aspiring artists is to “just go for it.”

“You cannot be afraid,” said Harrah. “You have to do what speaks to you.”