Three monumental new photographic works will serve as the focal point of Josh Garrick’s exhibit at the Lake Eustis Museum of Art opening April 13 and running through May 27. The works are 3 feet by 5 feet each and will be ‘printed’ on aluminum di-bond. In addition, a grouping of 12 works – also on aluminum – will be presented along with traditional silver gelatin prints and digital works.
As a professor of ‘Ancient Greek Art and Culture’ at the prestigious School of Visual Arts, Garrick led American students on 15 trips to Greece. In recognition of Garrick’s teaching, he was afforded the unique opportunity – by the Greek Ephorate of Antiquities – to enter the Parthenon and photograph this architectural classic from the scaffolding and roof of the Parthenon during its current restoration. Garrick, the only American afforded this privilege, captures the ‘reconstruction’ from the roof of the Parthenon. Some prints focus on specific columns and the manner in which workmen of today are creating marble ‘sculptures’ that fit the marble fragments to be placed in their original position. Garrick received this special honor in recognition of his love for Greece and its history.
"People assume I’m of Greek heritage,” Garrick says. “But my sincere and deep respect for Greece comes from the fact that what we most treasure – our legacy of art, history, theatre, and philosophy – can ALL be traced to that singular place and time. I tell my students that the responsibility of the photographer is to help the viewer ‘see in a different way.’ I feel a form of religious responsibility for photographing the ancient Greek monuments, and at its best, I hope my work can move the viewer’s sense of our shared history.”
Garrick has exhibited in one-man shows in New York City and throughout Florida. His photographs have appeared in Photo District News, U&lc, and Archaeology magazines, the New York Post, in advertising for Olympic Airways, and on the cover of the New York Gallery Guide.
A free “Q&A Art Talk” with Artist, Architect, and Art critic Richard Reep will take place during the opening of the exhibit.
The Museum is located at Grove Street and Orange Avenue in downtown Eustis across from Eustis City Hall at 200 B East Orange Avenue, Eustis, FL 32726. For information call 352-483-2900. LEMA is open Tuesday to Friday 10 am to 4 pm and noon to 4 pm weekends. Non-member adults donate $5 per visit.