VISUAL ARTS + MUSEUMS

On Saturday, May 7th from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm Houston-based photography company, Pluto Lenz will host a Fundraiser and Artist Debut  at Betz Gallery located at 1208 W. Gray. A portion of the proceeds (25%) will go to the Ode Remo Compound in Ogun State, Nigeria, where the residents have lack of sufficient electricity and are seeking funds to purchase more generators to help meet their health and wellness needs of the growing community.

Brian Ellison, the founder of Pluto Lenz was able to experience the Ode Remo Compound in January of this year, and returned to the U.S. with a greater sense of obligation to raise awareness while capturing the natural beauty of the Nigerian people.

“The experience added to my fine appreciation of culture,” said Ellison. “We lived among the people and I was able to capture rare and authentic moments.”

By day, Brian is a teacher for the Council of Drug and Alcohol Prevention where he implements research-based prevention programs for effective drug prevention strategies that are designed to change behavior, increase awareness and empower children and young adults. He said that his childhood experiences taught him to be resilient and he hopes to influence his students and children worldwide to push through and overcome obstacles. His company, Pluto Lenz was inspired by his desire for others to actually see the world from his perspective.

“Brian’s work is abstract, candid and compelling,” said Crystal Walter, international social worker and founder of Crystal Clear Communal Concepts and Consulting, Inc. “His work is a gift to all who have the opportunity to experience it.”

The event is free and open to the public. Expected attendees include art enthusiasts, young professionals and all who have an appreciation of culture and the authentic. Complimentary wine will be served and food will be provided by The Ultimate Flavour.

About Brian Ellison - Brian Ellison is a photographer, philanthropist and abstract artist. Growing up in Tulsa, OK Brian always had a interest in creative expression through poetry, music, painting, and photography. He received his Bachelors of Arts at Morgan state University in Baltimore, MD with a football scholarship, however, he always had a strong desire to work in the arts.

Brian believes there is no limit when it comes to self-expression and describes his brand as "RAW." He has a strong appreciation for the simple things in life. Brian likes to capture natural reactions, such as smiles, laughter, and emotions in its purest form within the realms of polarities and the abstract when shooting photos. When Brian's not in class pursuing his Masters Degree in Counseling at Prairie View A&M University or snapping pictures,

To learn more about Brian and to view his work, visit PlutoLenz.tumblr.com and to contact him email him at plutolenz@yahoo.com.