Arts & Galleries

Riverside resident Michael Elderman says Riverside's Fox Theatre has a story to tell.

He will tell its story with a photographic essay exhibition, "Riverside's Fox Theater: An Intimate Portrait" at La Sierra University's Brandstater Gallery. It opens with a reception Monday and runs through Dec. 10.

The exhibit will next travel to the Riverside Art Museum. Elderman's book, titled the same as the exhibitwill also be available for the first time during the opening reception for the museum exhibit. Elderman will be on hand to sign book copies.

As a well-known photographer in the area, Elderman has shot many historical locations in the area. So it was no surprise that Fox Theatre restoration's project manager, Robert Wise, called on him to shoot some photos when work began nearly three years ago.

Elderman photographed the deconstruction and repair, adding some artsy shots for his own enjoyment. He kept returning as progress was made and began envisioning using the photos for a show.

"After about a year, I realized I had a book," Elderman said. "I loved the artwork. It's a local landmark ... something people have seen since childhood. The transformation from this old dilapidated thing to what it is now is incredible."

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Michael Elderman / Special to The Press-Enterprise

Michael Elderman, of Riverside, will tell Fox Theatre's story in a photographic essay exhibition, "Riverside's Fox Theater: An Intimate Portrait" at La Sierra University's Brandstater Gallery. It opens with a reception Monday.

In addition to the photographs, both exhibits will include essays on preservation by Knox Melon, the state historic preservation officer emeritus; a short history chapter by Riverside history author Joan Hall; and a critique of Elderman's work by UCR/ARTSblock executive director Jonathan Green.

Reach Jennifer Dean at 951-368-9336, jdean@PE.com or http://blogs.pe.com/moms