The St. Johns Cultural Council has selected the work of St. Augustine-based fine art photographer Lenny Foster for display at the St. Johns County Administration Building Rotunda Gallery from Tuesday, Feb. 15, until April 22.
Work from Foster’s series, “Where We Stand,” will provide a glimpse into the African-American history of St. Johns County. A morning reception is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Feb. 15 with a formal opening from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 16, with remarks from Foster at 6 p.m. The free events are open to the public.
According to Foster, the new exhibit is influenced by his relocation to St. Augustine and residence in the historic area of Lincolnville.
“Upon arriving in St. Augustine, I discovered a deep history, largely unknown to the public, about African-Americans in St. Johns County,” he said. “I learned about a hidden history of my own African-American heritage. As awareness of the local past dawned on me, it has become the focus of my work. This mindfulness has allowed me to combine my fine art photography with a historic and social awareness of the continuing struggle for freedom and recognition by the people who are my ancestors and my heritage. I feel honored to be able to share this history, through my work, with a broader public.”
Foster’s gallery, Gallery One Forty Four, is located at 144 King St. in downtown St. Augustine.
The Cultural Council presents this exhibition with support from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Dr. Joann Crisp-Ellert Fund of the Community Foundation for Northeast Florida, the Florida Division of Arts and Culture, the St. Johns County Tourist Development Council and the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners.
The St. Johns County Administration Building is located at 500 San Sebastian View, St. Augustine.
