2012 A.R.T. Artist Judy Hemphill's "Second Stories" Exhibit

 "Second Stories," a photographic presentation by Judy Hemphill

photographs  © Judy Hemphill

 

Artisans Road Trip member Judy Hemphill of Spencer, Iowa, is an aerial, commercial, and fine art photographer. As changes occur in her surroundings her commercial and contract images often become historical documents. Since last spring Judy has been part of a project focusing on historical documentation. Through the Spencer Renaissance Initiative Grant Program, the Spencer Historic Preservation Commission hired Judy to photograph interior spaces of seven second floor properties in downtown Spencer. "Second Stories," a presentation featuring these images, will be repeated Tuesday, May 8, 2012, 5:30 in Spencer City Hall Council Chambers.  This event should be a good fit for the 2012 May Historic Preservation Month theme "Discover Hidden Gems."

Due to a variety of circumstances many of the former office and residential spaces on the second floors of buildings in the Grand Avenue Historic Commercial District are vacant. Many contain "hidden gems" in time capsules which have not been disturbed since last occupied 20 to 40 years ago. Judy captured overall views of hallways, kitchens, other living areas, offices, a dance studio, and an assembly hall. Also pictured are vintage wallpapers, light fixtures, and views from some of the windows overlooking Grand Avenue.

During the "Second Stories" event images of the seven interiors will be featured with commentss from Kirby Schmidt. "Second Stories" property interiors included are the Medlar, Moore, McAllister Block, Floete-Cornwall (Glass Block), Union Block, Citizens National Bank, and I.O.O.F. Buildings.

Spencer Historic Preservation Commission invites everyone to "Second Stories," a photographic presentation by Judy Hemphill, on Tuesday, May 8, at 5:30 pm in the Spencer City Hall Council Chambers, 420 Second Avenue West, 712/580-7200.  Come discover some historic hidden gems!