IF THE MASTERS HAD CAMERAS
Photographers Paula Showen and Karren Doll Tolliver Interpret Classical Artworks
New Port Richey, FL – The Progress Energy Art Gallery presents a unique perspective on classical art for the month of October. Paula Showen and Karren Doll Tolliver, two local photographers, each chose several classical artworks and created photographs in the style of those artworks.
Paula Showen came up with the original idea, based on a request from two of her clients. Initially she focused on Renaissance art, eventually branching out into other styles. “It’s always interesting to see how a project like this evolves,” she says. “It turned out very different from the way I’d envisioned it.”
Showen runs her own portrait business and has devoted many hours to the Progress Energy Art Gallery since 2004. She currently maintains the gallery web site and its business database, and she also photographs the First Friday opening receptions. In addition, she devotes her time and creative energy to the management of the gallery.
Karren Doll Tolliver, director of the gallery, will also depict Renaissance art as well as a few pieces with a more modern feel. “Paula is such a gifted photographer that, when she began this series, I was enthralled. When she asked me to be a part of it, I jumped at the chance,” says Tolliver. She will be unveiling two new pieces of her “Things with Bob” series as part of this exhibit.
Copies of the artwork that the two used for inspiration will be posted alongside the photographs so that visitors will see what the original inspiration was for each piece.
Other artists exhibiting in this show are Ralph Annan, Michelle Collins, Gladys dePrias, Carol Gula, Littlefeather, Sherry Stamback, and Patrick Stickney.
The Progress Energy Art Gallery is a community gallery that was opened by the not-for-profit organization Greater New Port Richey Main Street with a grant from Progress Energy to encourage the growth of art and culture in our downtown. All proceeds from sales go toward keeping this valuable asset to the community operational. A number of sponsorship opportunities are available for the gallery. All donations are tax-deductible.
The Gallery is located at 6231 Grand Boulevard, downtown New Port Richey. For further information please call 727.848.6500 or see our web site at www.nprgallery.com.
