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Natural Beauties: Beyond the Petals

Presented by Betz Gallery at Betz Gallery

November 20-December 12, 2009

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 Betz Gallery presents the exibition Natural Beauties: Beyond the Petals, an  exhibition featuring  the work of work of photographer June Russell. 

Flowers are a tradition in the art world. Artists paint them and photographers strive to capture their essence. But every now and then, someone comes along with a unique new vision, a new way of looking at the floral beauty around us. To experience this sensation of discovery firsthand, come to Betz Art Gallery on Friday, November 20, from 6-9 p.m. when photographer June Russell displays her latest work in the exhibition Natural Beauties: Beyond the Petals.

On view through December 12, Russell's work provides visitors to the exhibition a chance to see these jewels of the natural world in exquisite detail.

"With this new work I am exploring the intimacies within flowers -- focusing on what lies hidden among the petals," Russell explains. "As I go deeper and closer, the intricacies of blossoms are revealed. In addition, fascinating forms emerge as abstract images that sing out with unexpected song. Enjoy the bouquet I’ve picked for you as you visit my natural world."

Fifteen years ago, Russell’s interest in photography intensified, and she decided to pursue it seriously as an art form -- attending classes and traveling on photo expeditions to some of the most striking natural settings in the world. Russell, who finds most of her subject matter from nature, has recently started giving presentations to art organizations on topics of photographic technique and the elements of excellent images.

"My inspiration comes from nature," Russell explains. "I feel most alive when I am walking in the woods, hiking in the mountains or standing by a lake. Through my photography, I share the joy and exuberance that I experience in this most healing of environments. By remaining true to the colors and forms I find in nature, I represent the almost ineffable beauty that surrounds me. Combining my passion for photography with the natural world has become my lifelong journey of the spirit."

Russell has been involved with artistic interests since childhood, when she painted, played piano and sang. Currently exhibiting at Betz Art Gallery, Russell has been showing her fine art prints in juried shows for the past nine years, and her images hang in collections across the country. Russell is a member of Women in the Visual and Literary Arts and was on the organization's board of directors for four years. When not photographing the wonders of nature, Russell -- a professional musician who plays piano and guitar and formerly sang in restaurants and lounges -- sings with the Houston Symphony Chorus and has performed with the Gilbert and Sullivan Society of Houston.

For more information about June Russell, her work or upcoming events, visit her website at www.junerussellphotography.com.

Betz Art Gallery is located at 1208 W. Gray in the Montrose section of Houston. For more information about the "Natural Beauties: Beyond the Petals" exhibition, Betz Art Gallery's artists, or future events, contact Lori Betz at 713-576-6954, via e-mail at info@betzgallery.com  or by visiting the gallery's website www.betzgallery.com.

Pictured:  detail Poppy.