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Saffer Shows Japanese Influences

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: June 18, 2008

TAMPA - Nuance Galleries, 804 S. Dale Mabry Highway, features the art of H.M. Saffer II through June.

Saffer's oil paintings and works on paper combine Western and Oriental techniques in a style that is sparse on elements but rich in detail.

"Some of the works on paper are on rice paper, and you get a real sense of the Japanese influence, especially in the landscapes," gallery owner Robert Rowen said. "It's in the way he puts it all together."

Saffer's journey as an artist did not follow a predictable path. Originally from Philadelphia, he went to Paris in 1965 and studied economics but ended up being a musician, chef and restaurant owner.

He also found time to take classes at L'ecole des Beaux Arts and had successful exhibitions of his paintings in Paris and Brussels, Belgium.

He continued his music career after returning to the United States in 1970, writing songs for Warner Bros.

The Eastern flavor found its way into his work in 1983, when he went to Japan to study the art of oriental brush painting, known as sumi-e.

Call (813) 875-0511.

Gallery Spotlights Images Of Old Mexico

Beyond the tourist attractions of Mexico's largest state, Chihuahua, are hidden treasures in the form of historical buildings, fascinating ruins and breathtaking vistas.

They are brought to life in "Chihuahua: The Land of Ancient Wonders," opening today and continuing through Aug. 15 at the Hillsborough Community College Dale Mabry Campus Art Gallery.

Photographer Bill Williams captures images of old cathedrals, missions, lakes, rivers and pieces of the vanished Paquime Indian culture.

The free opening reception at 11 a.m. today includes a lecture by Williams. The event is at the gallery on the second floor of the library at 4001 W. Tampa Bay Blvd.

Call director Elsa Villa at (813) 253-7386 for details.

Correspondent Esther Hammer can be reached at (813) 259-7662 or ehammer@tampatrib.com.

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