Kelso Depot Visitor Center Hosts Fine Art Photography Exhibit

Date: February 12, 2008
Contact: Linda Slater, [phone]
Contact: Bob Killen, [phone]

Since the turn of the last century, transcontinental railroads have promoted rail travel to national parks by producing framed prints and advertizing art that depicts the beauty of these national treasures. The tradition of close ties between the railroads, art, and national parks continues as Mojave National Preserve inaugurates its new gallery space with Back to Loneliness, a fine art photography exhibit at the Kelso Depot Visitor Center.

The Back to Loneliness collection of photographic prints by Bob Killen is an exploration of Mojave National Preserve’s Ivanpah Mountains. Killen’s cinematic style, reflective of his commercial editorial work, applies a fine art edge to the saturated hues of Teutonia granite formations, pointy cactus flora, crumbling mine sites and the world’s largest Joshua tree forest.

“The Mojave Desert has always been an inspiration for writers, photographers, and other artists,” said Linda Slater, Chief, Resource Interpretation & Outreach for Mojave National Preserve.  “The addition of an art gallery to the Kelso Visitor Center is an exciting opportunity to enrich the experience of our visitors.”

The Back to Loneliness exhibition runs from February 16th to May 19^th. Limited edition prints of Bob Killen’s work will be available at Western National Parks Association bookstore inside the Kelso Depot Visitor Center. Proceeds from print sales will fund additional projects aimed at promoting the understanding and enjoyment of Mojave National Preserve.