mercyhurst.edu Photo: The city of Erie holds a variety of wonders and architectural achievements. The powerful photographs in this exhibit paint an image of Erie that is crumbling, historic and elegant.

Although Erie may not be as glamorous as the cities we see on TV and in movies, there is no denying that there are a few spots that are still breathtaking in their own way. “A Second Look -– Architecture of Erie” recently made its way to Cummings Art Gallery, and wil be on display through Sunday, Jan. 20.

Erie was quite an industrial power, but has since moved on. This is apparent when one enters certain parts of the city and is greeted by massive iron buildings and towering smoke stacks.

Erie’s past is not completely industrial though. The exhibit also features photography of beautiful brick buildings and mansions. One in particular would be the beautiful 1891 Watson-Curtze Mansion, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Located on Erie’s “Millionaire’s Row,” on West 6th Street it was built at the height of industrialism in Erie. This was a time when 19th century gentlemen wanted to prove just how wealthy they were and a number of grand mansions sprung up around the city.

The exhibit features the work of several artists who have utilized their creative abilities to give new insight to crumbling parts of Erie that have been long forgotten. The gallery also features photography of remarkable Erie landmarks at their finest.

Gary Cardot, an assistant professor of photography at Mercyhurst, came up with the concept of showing Erie’s transitional state through powerful photography for an exhibit last year, and has continued it through to this art showing.

The exhibit will host a celebratory reception on Thursday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m.

The show is in Cummings Art Gallery and will be open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and weekends from 2 to 5 p.m. Gallery hours are by appointment from Friday, Dec. 21, through Sunday, Jan. 6, during the university’s Christmas break. For an appointment, please call 824-2092.