George Michael Bell: "Discovery and Explorations" - White River Gardens - Feb. 25, 2004 - 1 1/2 stars

Boring and forgettable. Only sometimes beautiful when independent of each other, this exhibition of color photography is the stuff found in a generic travel brochure. Overall, little artistry is demonstrated in these shots that are more homage to technical prowess than individual style. A point and click feel exists without any compositional consideration. A great shot looks like good luck. It doesn't help that most of the photos are matted in unflattering black set in stock metal frames. The most radiant image, "Sunset with Clouds," has a suitable, colorfully complimentary blue mat that enlivens and enhances the quality of the image. Sunset sky colors reflect neon pink, red, yellow and rich purple off of a field of clouds. It's heavenly. However, "Vultures in Trees," shot at the Indianapolis Zoo, doesn't benefit from its well-chosen color mat. The primary vulture's beak, the picture's focal point, is out of focus while the back of another vulture, half out of the scene, is sharp. Through March 3, 2004; 317-630-2001. -Mary Lee Pappas