Side Roads: SICA sets up photo exhibit

A new show at Southern Indiana Center for the Arts in Seymour features one of my favorite art forms - photographs.

The exhibit, the Carl Morrison Photography Show, which runs through the end of May, displays the work of Hayden native Carl "Mo" Morrison, a travel photographer and writer now living in California.

I don't know yet what the exact subject matter is for the photo exhibit, but I saw a sampling of Morrison's work at the Web site MoKnowsPhotos.com.

Scrolling down the Web site, I saw some unique photographs, divided into Morrison's "projects" - pictures from across the country, steam trains, landscapes, lighthouses, trains, covered bridges, classic cars and even a collection of neon signs.

I'll have to admit, though, that my favorite "project" was the one tagged "Automotive Brightwork." We're talking the real deal, here - Cadillac fins and Studebakers with their distinctive "nose," Pontiac hood ornaments and a (be still, my heart) red 1957 Chevy with a continental kit.

I was impressed, too, with the back end of a 1959 DeSoto, and a Stutz grille.

One photo really took me back. It showed a fin with the words "The Wanderer" written on it. I don't think I was quite in my teens when it became the fashion for boys to make their cars more distinctive by adding a couple of words. It was usually the name of a song popular at that particular time. (Wasn't it Dion who sang "The Wanderer"?) The only specific name I recall was "Moonlight Gambler," after the song. That fad seemed to disappear almost as soon as it began, but it was fun while it lasted.

There are plenty of photos on Morrison's site, including some really nice covered bridge pictures (a couple are from Jackson County). I expect his train photos would be especially appealing to local model railroading buffs.

An opening reception for Morrison's show will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. today at SICA, 2001 N. Ewing St.

The arts center has a full summer ahead, and its activities aren't limited to exhibits. According to its most recent schedule, the first Friday Night Live performance is set for May 9. I work most Friday nights, so I wasn't able to catch any of the shows last year, but I heard from several different people who did attend and said they had a great time. Performing at the first show this year will be the Apostolic Tabernacle Choir and the Peace Lutheran Praise Team, and I heard some really great things about them from someone who heard them sing at a recent event.

As always, SICA also will have other offerings that range from pottery to art classes to art camp.

It's warming up and blossoms are everywhere. It's a great time to line up some spring and summer activities that are close to home.
SICA is at 2001 N. Ewing St. For information, call 522-2278 or visit www.soinart.com.

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Persinger is community editor for The Tribune. She may be reached at (812) 523-7063 or jpersinger.com.