Upper Marlboro, MD - The first annual Legacy Fine Art Show was held at Camelot of Upper Marlboro on October 21 - 23, 2005. The event Director, Lauren Ishmael of Powerhouse Consultants, LLC. was excited and encouraged by the success of the inaugural event. She stated "I have always felt that this area was lacking a show of this type and that the art collectors here would embrace a show of this caliber…I was right. I cannot tell you how many people stopped to just say "thanks" for finally bringing this show to the metropolitan DC area." The exhibitors echoed their approval with comments like " …best first show I've ever attended … "very well put together" and …" I will definitely return next year ".

The room was filled with mesmerizing art that captured viewers with every detail, stroke and line. Many pieces were one of a kind. Ishmael, explains, "These pieces are originals and very limited editions that people can buy as a long term investment." Woodrow Nash, Charles Bibbs, Ted Ellis, Ulysses Marshal, Manuelita Brown, George Nock…just to name a few were on hand to meet the attendees and share in their inspirations. In addition to the nationally acclaimed artists, the event planners also donated booth space for emerging local artists. "We donated booth space for local artists who are just getting started, this is an important part of giving back to the community" says Ishmael.

The attendees were also able to participate in workshops lead by Mr. Mark Dabney of Hannibal Fine Art and Ms Alvah Beander of Melanin Art Appraisals, both certified art appraisers. This was a rare opportunity to have them both available at the same time and workshop attendance was high.

The phenomenal success of this event has set the bar very high for next year. "It is my intent to put Prince Georges County on the map as the home of one of the premier African American fine art shows in the country" said Ishmael. The county was selected to host the African American art show above other locations because of its prosperous African American community. "There's no need for people to travel to New York or Philadelphia to get fine art, they can come right here in Prince Georges County and get the finest art in the country. The event planners say the plans are well underway for next year and assert the 2006 show will surpass this year's event. Visit www.legacyfineartshow.com or call (301) 343-3332 for more information.