SALES FROM RALEIGH PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION TO BENEFIT HOSPICE OF WAKE COUNTY

Award-Winning Work of North Carolina Photographer Charles Dennis Kicks Off Fundraiser on Feb. 11

RALEIGH (Jan. 27, 2010) –  On Thursday evening, Feb. 11, Bev’s Fine Art in north Raleigh will host a reception to open an exhibition of works by award-winning photographer Charles Dennis, launching a donor initiative to benefit Hospice of Wake County (HOWC).  Specific proceeds from gallery and online sales of custom framed, limited edition prints will be contributed directly to HOWC to support its new 40,000 square foot Cary facility which opened in January.

The event is made possible by Susan Dennis, the photographer’s widow.  Charlie Dennis, a Detroit native, died in 2005 at age 52 in his adopted home of Hillsborough after a 30-year battle with chronic rheumatoid arthritis.  Since his death, Ms. Dennis has championed her husband’s prolific photographic portfolio, a collection of thousands of black and white images and master prints captured mainly in North Carolina.

Distinguished by dramatic landscapes from Bald Head Island, powerful images from the aftermath of Hurricane Fran and emotionally charged studies of North Carolina’s natural beauty, the work of Charlie Dennis has been described by the publisher of the photographic arts journal B&W as spiritual, haunting and uplifting.  Two preeminent competitions, the International Photography Awards and the Prix de la Photographie, Paris, have honored Dennis’ work as among the world’s best.

“There is a profound connection between Charlie’s story and the wonderful work done by Hospice of Wake County,” said Ms. Dennis.  “The last few years of his life gave me a genuine appreciation for the dignity, compassion and comfort that hospice is able to bring to end-of-life care.  I can’t think of a better way to celebrate Charlie’s life and his art than to help provide that to others.”

The reception will feature 29 specially selected limited edition prints, each of which is offered for sale in custom sizes, from 8”x11” to large-scale murals.  Individual prints are museum quality, made to order by master printmaker Bill Bamburger of Hillsborough and framed by Bev’s Fine Art.  The images will also be sold through the Dennis web site www.charlesdennisphotography.com and will continue to be available, with designated proceeds going directly to HOWC, after the gallery exhibition concludes on Feb. 28.

“This is an exciting partnership that offers a wonderful way to support Hospice of Wake County,” said Michael Blanchard, Vice President of Development for HOWC.   “To be associated with the art of Charles Dennis and his inspiring story is a joy and a privilege for us.”

Ms. Dennis will speak briefly at the exhibition opening which is expected to draw more than 100 attendees.   Her goal for the ongoing program is to generate at least $100,000 for Hospice of Wake County in 2010.  The event begins at 6:30 p.m. and is open to the public.  Guests are asked to register in advance at rsvp@hospiceofwake.org.  

Bev's Fine Art is located at 7400 Six Forks Rd. in Raleigh, in the lower level of Peachtree Market.

About Charles Dennis
The photographic art of Charles Dennis (1952-2005) made its public debut at the Durham Arts Council's Semans and Allenton Galleries in 2007.  The story of his life and untimely death at 52 from the cumulative effects of chronic rheumatoid arthritis includes the moving account of how a passionate artistic missionand the loving dedication of family continue today through the inspired efforts of his wife, Susan. To learn more about the life and art of Charles Dennis, please visit www.charlesdennisphotography.com.

About Hospice of Wake County
Your community hospice since 1979, Hospice of Wake County provides physical, emotional and spiritual care to those living with an advanced illness, their caregivers, and those who have lost a loved one regardless of age, race, religion, or financial circumstances. Our service area includes Johnston, Franklin, Durham, Harnett and Wake counties. Guided by community-based boards of directors and supported by a dedicated professional staff, our goal is to provide compassionate hospice care that allows patients to enjoy every moment of their lives to the fullest. For more information on Hospice of Wake County you may call 919-828-0890 or visit www.hospiceofwake.org.

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