Runge Nature Center in Jefferson City invites the public to celebrate the art and photography by an area couple on Thursday, April 2.
Lloyd and Ann Grotjan have an exhibit of photographic and ceramic art at Runge through the end of April. There will be an artist reception at 6 p.m., followed by a multimedia concert with outdoor photography and live music beginning at 6:30 p.m.
The exhibit focuses on Lloyd Grotjan's nature photography and muscianship. During his 30 years behind the lens, Grotjan shot the intricate details of both both wildflowers and wildlife. One portion of the exhibit will be an audio visual piece displaying bison on the American frontier.
Lloyd writes and records music in several styles but his favorite is that which conveys the positive feelings associated with being outdoors. "I try to keep my instrument selection acoustic for a more natural feel," he said.
As a musician, Lloyd has been in "Guitar Player," "Awareness" and "Progression" magazines. In addition to his CDs, Lloyd has released a DVD of material from his live "Part of the Circle" audio visual performances. His original composition "Apogee" from the album "Twelve Moons" has been performed on stages from Broadway New York to Verona Italy in the production Botanica by MoMix. Lloyd composes and records songs and soundtracks in his rural studio Meda.
Lloyd's photographs have been published in magazines such as "Men's Health" and "Outdoor Life," as well as books, calendars and online. Lloyd's fine art prints are in private collections and have been in local and international exhibits in museums and galleries including the Brandywine River Museum, Columbia Art League, Morven Museum and Garden, Museum of Dundee Scotland and the Rozier Gallery. His work for the National Park Service is on permanent file with the Library of Congress.
Lloyd, his wife, Ann, and two, daughters Savannah and Sonya, live in Central Missouri. The family frequently travels together, presenting programs, displaying art and giving demonstrations. Ann and Lloyd work collectively under the name Awe Naturel.
The exhibit at Runge is open for viewing from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursdays through the end of April. Call the Nature Center at 573-526-5544 for reservations if planning to attend the program on April 2.