LAND O’ LAKES – Liza Olivia Blecher, owner of Liza Olivia Photography, earned international recognition after one of her portraits was selected for display in the SEEN AGAIN International Art Show.
Liza traveled to Springfield, Illinois, where the exhibition was held Sept. 16 and 17 at the Hoogland Center for the Arts.
“Being featured in an international art show is such an amazing experience,” Liza said. “To see a personal project displayed alongside other talented artists’ work was truly special.”
The SEEN AGAIN project, created by the Photography Business Institute, highlights excellence in portraiture and entrepreneurship. For Liza, the theme became a way to celebrate life and showcase the resilience and beauty of people who overcame or are overcoming challenges and hardships.
“It was about telling stories of strength, courage and perseverance and revealing to people the beauty they may not always see in themselves,” Liza said.
She photographed nine individuals, each with a story worth celebrating. While just one of these portraits was selected for the international gallery, she plans to host a local showcase so the community can experience the strength, beauty and resilience captured in every image.
“I want people to see all of these incredible stories, not just the one displayed in Illinois,” Liza said. “Each person’s journey deserves to be celebrated.”
During the gallery showcase, a small number of photographers were also awarded the Certified Boutique Photographer designation. Unlike other programs, the CBP designation evaluates more than technical skills, focusing on the entire client experience, from business practices to marketing and customer care.
“Liza’s work and dedication are extraordinary,” said Sarah Petty, founder of the Photography Business Institute. “This honor recognizes not only her creativity and talent but also the heart and professionalism she brings to every client she serves.”
For Blecher, the recognition is both a personal and professional milestone.
“This is why I do what I do,” she said. “To create artwork that means something – for my clients and for the world to see for generations to come.”
