Troika Artist Laura Era’s breathtaking Frederick Douglass portrait typifies the excellence of the offerings at the silent auction for the “Evening with Douglass” to be held at the Avalon Theatre on March 20, 2010 at 6pm to 9pm which is co-sponsored by the Frederick Douglass Honor Society and the Talbot County NAACP.
Laura Era is an award winning, professional portrait and landscape artist who was raised on the Eastern Shore near Cambridge, Maryland. She works in oil and pastel and has considered herself an artist since the cradle. Since turning professional in 1988, Laura has painted hundreds of portraits on commission and also teaches classes and workshops. She is a co-owner of the Troika Gallery in historic Easton where the Douglass portrait can be seen in the front window until the auction. Ms. Era stated that “the photograph of Frederick Douglass moved me”, inspiring her to paint the portrait to help raise funds for the memorial to Talbot County’s illustrious citizen. Her portrait of Frederick Douglass captures both the depth of spirit and soul as reflected in the eyes of the great man.
Other silent auction items parallel the excellence of the Era portrait. Additional art offerings include work by Jay Hall Carpenter, selected artist of the Frederick Douglass memorial and local artists Pat Rogan, Nancy Hunter, Sharon Gilroy and Gayle Hubbard. Opportunities to enjoy local restaurants, cruises on Maritime Museum “Mister Jim” and The Patriot and overnight stays at the Bartlett Pear Inn and the Wade’s Point Inn on the Bay are other auction items that should excite great enthusiasm from auction attendees. Silent auction items can be purchased by either cash or personal check.
The quality of the silent auction offerings only adds to the richness of the evening’s entertainment. Sombarkin’, an a Capella group from Chestertown, is led by Karen Somerville whose commitment to music and African American history has made her a true community treasure. She is considered to be one of the best vocalists performing today. The evening highlight of Fred Morsell’s portrayal of the richness of Frederick Douglass’ person and oratory is certain to inspire all who are fortunate to attend this event. Mr. Morsell has been thrilling American audiences in theaters, schools and on television since 1984 and is known as the premier Frederick Douglass actor in our country today.
Tickets for the “Evening with Douglass” are still available for a minimum of $35 and by contacting 410-770-3751.