About 800 miles northeast of Dallas sits a small town in Illinois called Galesburg, which is notable for two reasons. First, it was the birthplace of Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Carl Sandburg, who once said, "Poetry is the synthesis of hyacinths and biscuits." Second, it is the hometown of photographer Chris Verene, who recently released his second book, entitled Family. Selections from his new book, as well as photos from earlier in his Family project, which began 26 years ago, are on display through January 1 at Photographs Do Not Bend Gallery, 1202 Dragon St., Suite 103. Verene's work focuses on his family and friends in the small, working-class town of Galesburg, and his photos are often surprising and moving in a way that speaks to what it is to live in small-town America. Don't miss the artist's reception and book signing from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the gallery. Call 214-969-1852 or visit pdnbgallery.com for more info.
Tuesdays-Saturdays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri., Dec. 3, 6-8 p.m. Starts: Nov. 20. Continues through Feb. 12, 2010