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2 Give Masters New Twist

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By JESSICA BAIR, The Suncoast News

Published: September 28, 2007

NEW PORT RICHEY - Photographers Paula Showen and Karren Doll Tolliver are offering a new perspective on classic artworks.

The women have created photos emulating the poses, clothing and atmosphere of Renaissance-era paintings.

About 20 of their interpretations will be displayed Oct. 5 through 26 at Progress Energy Art Gallery, a few doors south of the Richey Suncoast Theatre downtown.

The opening reception for the show, 'If the Masters Had Cameras,' is from 6 to 9 p.m. Oct. 5 and will feature music from Gypsy Star.

Showen, who specializes in portraits, came up with the idea after a request from two of her clients, said Tolliver, the gallery's director.
Showen initially focused on Renaissance art, but eventually branched out into other styles.

'It's always interesting to see how a project like this evolves,' she said. 'It turned out very different from the way I envisioned it.'
Showen has devoted many hours to the Progress Energy gallery since 2004.

She maintains the gallery's Web site and business database, and photographs 'First Friday' receptions that open various shows.

'Paula is such a gifted photographer that when she began this series, I was enthralled,' Tolliver said.

'When she asked me to be a part of it, I jumped at the chance.'

Copies of the original artwork that inspired the duo will be displayed alongside the photographs.
Tolliver also will unveil two new pieces of her satirical 'Things with Bob' series, which captures an ordinary-looking man in various places and poses.

Other artists exhibiting in the show are Ralph Annan, Michelle Astuto Collins, Gladys dePrias, Carol Gula, Loree Littlefeather, Sherry Stamback and Patrick Stickney.

FIND OUT MORE

The Progress Energy Art Gallery, 6231 Grand Blvd., New Port Richey, is open from noon to 8 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. For details, call (727) 848-6500 or visit www.nprgallery.com.

For more on participants in the show that opens Oct. 5, visit: Paula Showen, www.showmarphotos.com; Karren Tolliver, www.ktolliver .com; Michelle Collins, www.myspace.com/michelleacollins; Gladys dePrias, www.arttesa.org; Carol Gula, www.cgula.com; and Loree Littlefeather, littlefeatherstudios.com.

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