Philadelphia native Zoe Strauss only started taking pictures when she received a camera for her 30th birthday, six years ago. Since then, the self-taught photographer has made a point of chronicling people and places in the city that have been overlooked. Her arresting and moving images have received numerous accolades, including a 2005 Pew Fellow Award and an invitation to participate in the 2006 Whitney Biennial—the only Philadelphia artist to be asked. On April 21, Strauss presents an installation of her photographs and a slide show at the Institute of Contemporary Art, including “Gram’s butcher shop (1607 W. Susquahanna Ave.),” at right. Through July 30, Strauss will transform ICA’s ramp space with slides that focus on themes of desire. Also opening on April 21 are, “Make Your Own Life: Artists In and Out of Cologne;” “Candida Höfer: Architecture of Absence;” and “Soft Sites.” An exhibition walkthrough for members runs from 5 to 6 p.m.; reception from 6 to 8 p.m. at the ICA, 118 S. 36th St. For more information, call 215-898-7108 or go to: www.icaphila.org. —HD