Maine Media College, a leader in visual and media arts education, has posthumously honored renowned photographer Paul Caponigro with its 2025 Visionary Award. The award recognizes his extraordinary contributions to photography and the evolution of Maine Media College’s artistic community.

Highlights of the 2025 Visionary Award

• Award Recipient: Paul Caponigro, acclaimed photographer known for ethereal imagery of nature and ancient sites.

• Posthumous Recognition: Award will be accepted by his son, John Paul Caponigro.

• Legacy Impact: Celebrates Paul’s profound influence on photography and Maine Media since its inception.

Paul Caponigro’s Artistic Journey

• Began as a young artist blending photography and music.

• Known for work reflecting rhythm, harmony, light, form, and spiritual depth.

• Passed away on November 10, 2024, at age 91.

Event Details

• Exhibit: Paul Caponigro’s work on display at Haas Gallery, Maine Media campus (Sept 12–Nov 30, 2025).

• Reception: September 18, 5–6 PM.

• Public Celebration: September 19 at Union Hall, Rockport, ME.

• Visionary Awards Dinner: September 20 at Primo Restaurant, Rockland, ME, featuring the award presentation and Arnold Newman Prize announcement.

Quotes from Maine Media Leadership

• Michael Mansfield, Maine Media President:
  "Paul was a towering figure here at Maine Media... His presence will be felt for generations to come."

• Kari Wehrs, Photography Program Chair:
  "Paul’s photographs invite us to worlds within worlds... a profound emotional and intellectual journey."

Visionary Award

• Established in 2019 to honor extraordinary contributions to visual, media, and literary arts.

• Past recipients include Joyce Tenneson (2019), Teju Cole (2021), and Cig Harvey (2023).

For more information on the Visionary Award, sponsorships, and tickets, contact Beth Storey at bstorey@mainemedia.edu.