LUFKIN, TEXAS, April 26, 2017 –Angelina College’s Fine Arts division will present an exhibition of photographs by Richard Orton May 9 through June 7. An opening reception is planned for May 9, 6-7:30 p.m. and will include a short talk by the artist. the event is free and open to the public.
Orton’s documentary series “The Upshaws of County Line” is of particular interest to our East Texas community. An award winning exhibition and book, this series documents the extraordinary establishment of the post Civil War black communities in East Texas where African American families sought to create their own havens in which to thrive and work. With the abuses of both Reconstruction and the legislation known as Jim Crow laws, these “freedom colonies” were vital to these families.
Richard Orton spent 25 years with the families of County Line, Texas, documenting their lives with his photos and producing a book that includes the writings of the citizens of County Line. The resulting photo essay and book have been an important addition to the historical record of Texas.
For more information about this event or the Fine Arts division at Angelina College, call 936-633-5233.
