Colbert County Historical Landmarks Foundation will host its quarterly meeting on Sunday, November 17, 2024 at Belle Mont Mansion in Tuscumbia. Mr. Richard Dowd, a distinguished expert in portraiture, will present "The Evolution of Portrait Painting from the 18th and 19th Centuries to the Present."  The meeting will begin at 2 pm. The event is free and open to the public.

With a 40-year tenure at Littlehouse Art Galleries of Homewood, Alabama, a leading art institution in the Southeast representing over 100 local and regional artists, Mr. Dowd's expertise encompasses shop foreman, assistant gallery manager, and chief art restorationist. His presentation will explore the historical development of portrait painting, including symbolism, patronage motivations, and technical challenges.  Additionally, Mr. Dowd will contrast modern portraiture styles with those of past centuries, drawing upon his personal collection as well as Belle Mont Mansion's extensive 19th-century portrait collection. 

The portrait exhibit will be on display at Belle Mont Mansion November 13-16, 2024 during regular museum hours.