February 10, 2006 — Photographs that focus on social issues and Sri Lankan Buddhist art will be the focus of the University of Virginia Art Museum’s Fourth Friday reception on Feb. 24 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

“The Social Lens: Photography from the Graham Collection” presents the work of 10 documentary photographers from collector Ray Graham III’s collection, including John Gossage and Sarah Penman, who capture the intricacies of life in such far-flung places as Native American reservations and the sidewalk in front of the White House. Each of these artists has, for one reason or another, struck a cord for the collector, and as a result Graham has nurtured them and allowed them the ability to work unencumbered. Also featured in the exhibition are works by Shelby Lee Adams, Rob Amberg, Douglas Kent Hall, Betty Hahn, John Lloyd, Patrick Nagatani, Meridel Rubenstein and Anne Noggle.

Organized by the Phoenix Art Museum and drawn from private collections, “Guardian of the Flame: Art of Sri Lanka” is the first U.S. exhibition to comprehensively explore the rich Buddhist heritage of Sri Lanka. The exhibition comprises approximately 100 rare and historic works made of stone, bronze, ivory, crystal and wood. It is particularly important because only a handful of museums in the United States hold examples of Sri Lankan art.

Fourth Friday receptions are free to students and museum members. Students must bring a driver's license or passport identification to verify they are 21 or older. For all others, there is a $3 admission charge.

The museum is open to the public free of charge Tuesday through Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.
For more information about the exhibit and the U.Va. Art Museum, call (434) 924-3592 or visit the museum Web site: http://www.virginia.edu/artmuseum.