‘Together, a Portrait of Americans’ Exhibit Opens at Altama Museum

Courtesy of the Altama Museum of Art & History

The Altama Museum of Art & History welcomes visitors to enjoy its newest exhibit, which focuses on the history and vibrancy of American life.

Artist David Salerno of Chattanooga, Tennessee, brings his immersive gallery exhibit to The Altama Museum of Art & History in Vidalia. The thoughtprovoking exhibit includes 40 original portraits of Americans from all walks of life, demographic and scientific data, and a musical component to enhance viewer experience.

Salerno's realistic portraits are rendered in oil on canvas, executed with an almost-invisible brushstroke. What began as a personal response to the discord within the nation, which Salerno felt was threatening democracy, has become what he describes as “an illustration of shared humanity that serves to encourage more civil and constructive interaction.”

The portraits were painted over two years, as volunteers were recruited to sit for portraits from across several communities surrounding Chattanooga and other cities. . 'Participants volunteered to be a part of this project because they are also concerned with current discord in our country and want to demonstrate that our similarities override our differences,' Salerno emphasized.

A gallery opening will be hosted Friday, January 12, from 6-8 p.m. with Artist Talk with Salerno at 7 p.m. The exhibit will be on display through February 23 in the Meadows Gallery.

The museum is located at 611 Jackson Street in Vidalia. Admission is free and families are welcome. More information may be found by calling 912-5371911 or visiting the museum’s website.