Jim Gaston Photography Exhibit Opens April 4 at ASUMH

Jim Gaston has long been known for operating Gaston’s White River Resort in Lakeview – for the past 45 years, in fact. He is also known for his dedication and service in the Arkansas tourism industry having served on the Arkansas State Parks, Recreation, and Travel Commission since 1973 and as a commissioner emeritus since 1997. But today, he is known for his passion in the field of photography.

During the month of April, Gaston is the featured artist in the Ozark Regional Arts Council Conference Room at the Vada Sheid Community Development Center on the campus of Arkansas State University-Mountain Home. The exhibit will be on display from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The public is welcome at an opening reception from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on April 4.

Gaston’s photography captures the great outdoors with close ups of eagles perched along the White River, panoramas of fall trees ripe with color, or shots of old barns alongside a trail. His exquisite eye also finds the essence of Americana in scenes of old cars and country churches. Flora and fauna, and landscapes are other captivating subjects. He is also a master of software, turning photos of a wren on a branch into a watercolor, for example.

Gaston has been a long-time supporter of Arkansas State University-Mountain Home, funding Gaston Lobby in Roller Hall and endowing the popular Gaston Lecture Series which provides thought-provoking lectures two times a year for the community.

Gaston’s White River Resort is picturesque itself with 74 cabins and cottages spread along the White River. The centerpiece is the restaurant with large glass panels along the back allowing for a full view of the river below. It seats 350 people and has an incredible and well done décor of old motors, bicycles, and other machinery and tools lining every inch of it. Spreading over 300 acres, the resort also includes a marina, swimming pool, tennis court, game room, fly-fishing school, conference lodge, gift shops, nature trails, and airstrip.

Gaston has been recognized for his creative outdoor photography and has donated numerous prints to the college for students and the community to enjoy.  The exhibit in the Ozark Regional Arts Council Conference Room is a collection of Gaston’s photographs that he has given to the university.

For more information, contact Sarah Sikes at (870) 405-6105.