Riverside, CA--The City of Riverside and Riverside Arts Council are proud to announce the May 2008 Arts Honoree of the Month, Michael J. Elderman. As a local photographer, Michael has helped to promote the historical, cultural and artistic landmarks of Riverside.

Originally from Atlantic City, New Jersey, he has lived with his wife, Kathryn, and worked in Riverside since the 1970s. In that time, he has become prominent local artist and a supporter of this City. He often donates his services and time for the benefit of Riverside. It's not unusual to see him at the Mayor's Ball for the Arts, at the Riverside International Film Festival, UCR Writers Week or a gallery opening.

"Michael Elderman's presence is felt throughout Riverside. On any given day, you can find him photographing an important happening somewhere in this community," says Patrick Brien, Executive Director of the Riverside Arts Council. "He is much more than a chronicler of this community, despite his seemingly omnipresent camera. Michael is part of the arts and cultural fabric of Riverside. For his dedication, his contributions and his collaborative spirit, we honor him."

Having both a B.A., and an M.A. in English and American Literature from Syracuse University and completed coursework for his PhD from UCR, brings a unique perspective to Michael's photographic interpretations. In his pieces, he expresses his unique appreciation for beauty, which he sees in people and things, and deep sense of sadness and a sense of humor. Michael has exhibited his pieces in over 27 group and solo shows. He first exhibited his work in 1978 at the Inland Empire Gallery near UCR. Other works have been featured at the Riverside Art Museum, Riverside Community Arts Association, Brandstater Gallery at La Sierra, the Coffee Depot, Back to the Grind and Division 9 Gallery, where he is also a partner. He is well-known for his documentation of New Orleans both before and after Hurricane Katrina, as well as Atlantic City. Yet Michael is most renowned for his pieces of important Riverside locations. His most recent works on the Fox Theatre deconstruction were on display at the Victor Miceli Law Library as part of its first foray into being a participant in Arts Walk. Each piece entails a beautiful portrait of the renovation of the theatre and the Riverside Renaissance.

The Arts Honoree of the Month Award was created to recognize the contribution that the arts make to the quality of life in the Riverside community, highlighting arts and cultural organizations and individuals that exhibit artistic excellence as well as service to the community. The presentation will be made at 6:30 p.m. at the Riverside City Council chambers located in City Hall and will be broadcast live on channel 32.

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