In January, our surroundings are bare and Spartan. The vibrant colors of spring are still buried under snow or forming deep within seeds, pods and bulbs.

However, beauty exists in stark contrast. Inland 360’s black-and-white photo contest will highlight that fact.

We’re asking readers to share their best black-and-white photo. Winners will receive two movie tickets to area theaters.

As for subject matter, it’s wide open. Nature, people, abstract designs and photos creatively manipulated by technology are all fair game. Winners will be announced in the Feb. 7 edition of Inland 360.

Here are the rules:

Only one submission per person.

Entries must be the original work of the photographer.

Entries should be emailed to contests@inland360.com and include the photographer’s full name, address and city.

Entries are due by 5 p.m. Jan. 27.

Photos must be taken between now and the contest deadline.

Print photos will not be accepted.

— Inland 360 staff

In need of inspiration? Check out the “Black and White Exhibit” at Valley Art Center in Clarkston, on display through Jan. 26. The exhibit features monochromatic works in graphite, charcoal, scratch board, photography and encaustics by artists Catherine Della Maggiora, Larry Ferguson and Jodee Maiorana, of Clarkston; Lynne Guillot of Lewiston; and Jordan Henderson of Dayton.

The center is at 842 Sixth St., Clarkston.