Southwest stories, Southern roots: A photographer’s journey on display in Lenoir

The Happy Valley Filling Station in Lenoir is pleased to announce a show of work by photographer Tom Bell of Hickory, on exhibit now in conjunction with the third anniversary celebration of the Filling Station.

Bell’s interest in photography began early with a fascination with photojournalism as seen in “LIFE” and “LOOK” magazines during the 1960s. Initially his first attempts at photography were with a Kodak Instamatic camera.

In 1971 a friend loaned him a 35mm camera and Bell’s interest broadened. As he entered college his interest grew, and he joined the Appalachian State University student newspaper to record scenes on campus and around Boone.

This newspaper provided an opportunity for Bell to gain experience and to begin understanding the craft of photography. Taking the next year off college, Bell ventured to Boston and began an earnest pursuit of photography, leading to additional education and the achievement of a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Ohio University in 1978.

Back home in Hickory, Bell’s search for employment led him to complete a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing at UNC–Chapel Hill in 1983. He worked as a registered nurse with lung and heart patients at Frye Hospital in Hickory from 1983 through 2018.

Bell travels with his wife, Mary Patton, and says he is thankful for his continued enjoyment of the photographic journey that began 55 years ago. He credits his many supporters over the years — primarily his parents, siblings, wife and friends. Specifically, he would like to credit the professional services of his digital ink jet printer Brady Lambert in Pittsboro, and Melissa Gibson in Hickory for matting and framing the work in preparation of the exhibit.

Bell’s photographs are available for sale and will remain on exhibit at the Happy Valley Filling Station through the month of June. The Filling Station is open for lunch and dinner Wednesdays through Sundays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. The Happy Valley Filling Station is at 1275 N.C. 268 in Lenoir. Call 828-726-3100 for more information.

— SWQ