Keith's Frame of Mind/Field Arts & Events Hall Connection

As a photographer and artist, I consider the Field Arts & Events Hall built in Port Angeles, Washington a much-needed and welcome addition to the Olympic Peninsula. Having a world-class facility that supports local artists and performers—as well as those visiting from around the globe—creates meaningful opportunities and enriches our entire community.

I was honored to be asked to photograph the Grand Opening celebration held the weekend of July 28th, 2023. The festivities began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the main entrance.

The whole event was open to the public as a huge celebration, indoors and out back on the lawn by the harbor. The highlight of the event, and one of the highlights of my photographic career, was the opportunity to photograph the performance group from Oakland called Bandaloop. This amazing group of performers danced across the glass wall of the banquet room while the audience watched from inside and out on the lawn.

Prior to the performance I was told I could take pictures from below them, but I needed to stay well back from the building for safety reasons. I started to take a few pics, slightly blocked by some trees, when the Director of Bandaloop tapped me on the should and said " come with me up here", and set me up right below them, to where the ropes were literally tapping my lens. Perfect! Photography is all about perspective and field of view. My heart was racing as I took these photos, knowing exactly how good they were going to be.

Then they added the rest of the troop.

There were several performance per day, each day, and they always drew a great crowd of appreciative onlookers.

The afternoons were filled with musical performances by The OG, Black Diamond Junction, and many other great acts. The event had a total festival feeling to it.

That evening the focus turned to the Donna M Morris Theater, with performances by Jazz great Diane Shuur

& Ranky Tank

After the event, I printed and framed the most popular image from the Grand Opening—a photograph of the Bandaloop performance—and donated it to Field Hall for display in the box office. I also provided additional frames for showcasing upcoming show flyers and an image of the building. The Bandaloop photo now hangs in the box office on permanent display, commemorating the hall’s opening.

In May 2024, I was invited to participate in the inaugural photography exhibit at Field Arts & Events Hall, titled A Different Lens. I printed and framed 27 images for my featured theme, Life in Motion. A video recap from my YouTube channel, @Keith’s Frame of Mind, is included below.

A DIFFERENT LENS | FEBRUARY 15 - MAY 18, 2024

A Different Lens celebrates the rich tapestry of the world around us and the human experience through the lenses of five distinct photographers. With virtuosic skill, each artist offers a unique perspective to capture precious fleeting moments. Through these lenses, you are invited to engage in a visual conversation on how we collectively perceive and experience the world. This collection intends to inspire dialogue, introspection, and appreciation for the shared beauty and narratives that define our interconnectedness. 

Artists featured: Alex Bodi Hallett, Amy McIntyre, Keith Ross, Ernst-Ulrich Schäfer, and Charlotte Watts. This exhibit has been curated by Steve Raider-Ginsburg and Kayla Oakes, Field Arts & Events Hall. 

I have since covered many events at Field Hall, and here are just a few photos:

Geoffrey Castle Celtic Christmas Show 2023

New Old Time Chautauqua July 2024

Fiber Arts Fashion Show October 2025

Fourth of July Celebration 2024

I remain committed to supporting Field Hall in every way possible and encourage our community to do the same. Field Hall exists to serve the entire Olympic Peninsula, and its outstanding board and staff work tirelessly to provide a high-quality venue for all. With our collective support, Field Hall will continue to grow and succeed.