Robin O’Dell manages the photograph collection at the Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg.
"I love photography because it is like a story in an image,” said O'Dell.
At more than 15,000 pieces, it’s one of the largest in the Southeast. The MFA’s latest exhibition, which celebrates their 50 years as an institution, is named "5 Decades of Photography: Featuring the Dandrew-Drakin Collection.”
But the photographs go back to the mid 1800’s with work from the father of modern photographer Fox Talbot.
Next in the exhibition are the mid-20th century works, followed by contemporary pieces.
No doubt there will be pictures one might recognize, like the Alfred Eisenstaedt photograph of the sailor kissing a nurse in Times Square after the announcement World World II had finally ended.
There will be familiar names, like Ansel Adams and Diane Arbus.
And there will be a scene once familiar to this area.
You can see it in one of the museum’s most recent acquisitions by photographer Robert Frank.
It is a 1956 picture of St. Petersburg’s famous green benches.
The 280 photographs will be on display through October 4.
July 4 Fun
In addition to enjoying the latest exhibition, the museum is also celebrating its prime location for St. Pete’s downtown July 4 activities.
The museum café is hosting its 8th annual Fireworks Buffet, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
There will be food, entertainment and fireworks viewing.
Reservations can be made at 727-822-1032.