The first exhibit in our newly refurbished gallery space is a show of black and white photographs by Hickory based photographer, John Gellman. Known mostly for his work as a music photographer, shooting the likes of Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, George Harrison, Duane Allman, the Outlaws, and Asheville favorites Blackberry Smoke, to name just a few, Gellman turned his camera on the local populace during the height of the Occupy movement last year and produced simple, yet elegant portraits.

Gellman explains, “I set up a very portable lighting rig next to a sidewalk in the heart of downtown Asheville and offered free portraits to any 99 percenter willing to pose. Although many of my subjects were part of the Occupy Asheville protests, I shot any willing person walking by. I didn’t ask if they were there as part of the protests. That is why I call this series Faces of the 99% instead of Faces of Occupy Asheville.”

These images have previously been seen only on Gellman’s website. This is the first public showing of printed images from the series. The large fine art prints were made by Gellman and master digital printer, Milton Hawes.

Gellman will be on hand for a reception between 7 pm and 9 pm on Saturday, December 8th.