Art at the Elgin is Saturday
Managing editor
With wildlife and beautiful landscapes, right outside his door, photographer Ron Beeton has the perfect setting for his subject.
The accomplished photographer has generously donated a photograph he took at Marion County Lake for Art at the Elgin Saturday at the Historic Elgin Hotel, downtown Marion.
Other local and area artists also have donated pieces for display with some being a part of an auction to raise funds for a youth center and programs.
The Marion County Lake resident has been taking photographs for more than 40 years, using nature’s backdrop as subjects.
Prior to becoming a “full-time” photographer, Beeton lived in Valley Center. After his retirement five years ago from Boeing, he and his wife moved to the lake to be full-time residents. Prior to his retirement, the couple owned a cabin at the lake for 22 years, spending free time and weekends at the retreat.
His home is a gallery of his works, showing nature scenes in black and white and color. Beeton develops his own black and white photos. His color photos are professionally processed but he does his own printing, matting, and framing.
Beeton’s photography also is displayed in Gallery 12 and Upfront Gallery in Old Town, Wichita. He also is a member of the Lawrence Art Guild and Topeka Art Guild.
A 35mm panoramic camera is used for some of his work, particularly that in black and white. A film camera also is used for his color prints of landscapes. He uses a digital camera for capturing wildlife.
“I can step out of my back door, onto my deck, and take pictures of nature and wildlife,” he said.
Beeton also spends time in the Flint Hills, east of Marion, capturing skylines and prairie skyscapes.
The photograph that will be part of Saturday’s auction is in color, matted, and framed.
The quiet, unassuming artist said he is proud to be a part of the fundraiser and hopes the photo does well at the auction to benefit the group.
About the event
Art at the Elgin is noon to 4 p.m. with viewing of art pieces including jewelry, sculptures, iron, ceramic, and photography and a silent auction. A social and live auction will be from 6 to 8 p.m.
This is the first public open house of the newly renovated Historical Elgin Hotel at Third and Santa Fe streets, Marion. Jim Cloutier has spent the past several years enhancing the three-story limestone building, with plans for a restaurant and bed and breakfast.