February 13, 2017
17-38

VSU’s Odum Library Hosts Marvin Smith Exhibit

Valdosta State University’s Odum Library presents “Birds,” a photography exhibit by Dr. Marvin Smith. 

bird-on-branch

birds-in-flight

VALDOSTA — Valdosta State University’s Odum Library presents “Birds,” a photography exhibit by Dr. Marvin Smith. The exhibit is free of charge and open to all faculty, staff, students, alumni, retirees, and friends of the university.
 
Smith’s collection of 23 images was captured over a five-year period and depicts birds in their native habitats throughout South Georgia and Florida. He is an avid birdwatcher and began combining this hobby with photography about 10 years ago.
 
“I like the challenge of always trying to get a better shot, and I'm inspired by the beauty of the birds,” he said.
 
Smith was a professor of anthropology at VSU for 23 years and retired in 2015.
 
Catherine Bowers, a reference librarian at Odum Library and member of the Library Art Committee, was responsible for bringing the “Birds” exhibit to campus.
 
“I knew Marv was active in local bird watching groups, and I thought it would be a great idea to display Marv’s photos — and to bring the outdoors indoors,” she said.
 
Smith also enjoys taking pictures of other animals and automobile races.
 
The Odum Library houses the largest art collection in the university. In fall of 2011, VSU launched the Art in Odum initiative and the Library Art Committee formed to make the project a reality. The Odum Library features a number of permanent collections and also presents a number of temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
 
“Birds” will be on display through May 31 and is located in the Popular Books section on the first floor of Odum Library.
 
Visit https://www.valdosta.edu/academics/library/general/about/hours-of-operation.php or call (229) 333-5869 for library hours.
 
Contact Catherine Bowers at csbowers@valdosta.edu to learn more.
 
On the Web
 
https://www.valdosta.edu/academics/library/depts/archives-and-special-collections/exhibits/art-in-odum.php
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