Troops that fought at Bull Run - A three months' company. RIHS Collection Image RHiX35898

Photography was just over two decades old when the Civil War began. However, thousands of images exist today which chronicle the battlegrounds, army camps, and soldiers and preserve important legacies. At May Gallery Night, Professor Thomas Morrissey will present “Origins of Photography: Images from the American Civil War,” discussing the cultural significance of Civil War photography while lending his unique perspective as a veteran and artist.

Thomas F. Morrissey served as a helicopter pilot in the Republic of Vietnam between April 1970 and April 1971 with the 117th Assault Helicopter Company (Warlords). After completing his tour of duty, he studied visual arts at the University of Florida (BA in Fine Art 1976) and at Arizona State University (MFA 1978). He is a full professor of photography and computer graphics at the Community College of Rhode Island. He has taught photography for over 20 years at several other institutions including MIT, RISD, and Providence College. His works are included in several collections including the International Center for Photography, the Museum of Art at Cornell University, the RISD Museum, the Corcoran Gallery, and several international collections.

In addition to this lecture, the first floor of the John Brown House Museum will be open to Gallery Night participants from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Visitors will be able to view the rooms on the first floor of this impressive home, and speak with guides about its history and inhabitants.

This event is free, and reservations are requested. Please contact Caitlin Murphy at 401.331.8575 x36 or programs@rihs.org for more information or to RSVP.