Georgia Writers Museum (GWM) is about more than just reading and writing. On March 4, it became an art gallery, treating Meet the Author attendees to an evening of inspiration, creativity, and community engagement while showcasing the work of photographer, filmmaker, author, and two-time Emmy nominee Chris Greer.
Additionally, 20 student artists from Putnam County High School exhibited several of their artworks alongside Greer’s.
The event was organized by GWM’s 2025 Junior Board of Directors, which includes members of the 2024-25 PCHS Service Leadership Class.
As their project this year, the Junior Board took control of GWM’s Meet the Author event for March. They arranged for Greer’s presentation and worked with him to create an exhibition that included about 20 of his photographs depicting some of Georgia’s most stunning natural landscapes, as well as students’ artwork inspired by Greer’s photos.
The result was “Framing Futures: Chris Greer and PCCSS Showcase Natural Georgia.”
“The Service Leadership class solicited gallery submissions from the whole school,” PCHS Service Leadership class teacher Rebekah Esau said. “There were submissions from students of all ages.”
She noted that the Service Leadership class is filled with “amazing seniors” who collaborate with many local organizations to help connect the school system with the community and beyond.
“The annual Junior Board project is always a favorite,” Esau added.
The exhibition will remain on display at GWM throughout March and includes a silent auction for the students’ works. The auction will be active March 12-15, and all auction bids must be submitted in person at the museum. Each student artist will receive the full commission from the auction of their work.
Greer is cohost of the PBS show “View Finders” and is known for his breathtaking photos of natural landscapes, many of which are featured in his new book, Naturally Georgia: From the Mountains to the Coast.
After speaking to the GWM Meet the Author audience about his artistic journey, Greer shared insights into his creative process and the backstories for some of his favorite photographs. Following his presentation, Greer signed copies of his book.
“I was really impressed with the students’ artwork,” Greer said. “Everything was so well organized, and it was an absolutely wonderful event. I also enjoyed reading the artists’ statements about their interpretations, which showed me how my work could be perceived in different ways. It was truly amazing, and the whole event was very rewarding.”
GWM Executive Director Melissa Swindell acknowledged her appreciation for the program, as well as the artists and PCHS Junior Board members.
“This was our fourth year of having a Junior Board, and each year they’ve come up with amazing projects. It’s incredible to see how well the students work together,” Swindell said. “Some are into art, others are into books, some are great logical thinkers, and others are planners. Their diverse skills shine as they develop and present their project.”
Visit the Georgia Writers Museum (109 S. Jefferson Ave., Eatonton) throughout March to experience Chris Greer's photography and the artwork of talented local student artists.