ART: Work of Falls’ past and present on display

By Rick Forgione/forgioner@gnnewspaper.com
Greater Niagara Newspapers

March 12, 2008 02:16 pm

— Paul Hanover wishes he could go back in time.
But in lieu of inventing a time machine, Hanover creates his own blast from the past in his paintings. Aptly entitled the Niagara Falls Series, he’s created 60 pieces depicting various views — and time periods — of the Niagara River and gorge.
Those works and others will be on display during an exhibit today and Friday at the Hanover House B&B, Studio and Art Gallery in Niagara Falls. Hanover’s show will feature original oil and acrylic paintings, pencil drawings and limited edition prints, including the newly released print from an award-winning painting “Past Tense — Future Tense — Niagara.”
“If only we could turn back the clocks to see what it was like around here,” the Niagara Falls resident said. “I’ve always loved the falls and how it looks in its natural state.”
To create that effect, Hanover has spent years researching historic photographs and visiting different sites around the falls. He’s also studied the makeup of rocks, foam and water.
“You’ve got to go to your locations and understand how all the light and shadows work,” said Hanover, who despite being featured in a number of national publications remains modest about his abilities. “It’s a gift, and you’ve got to acknowledge it’s a gift from God.”
Local historian Paul Gromosiak said he has several of Hanover’s prints on display and is impressed with the artworks’ details, specifically with the painted sky and mist of the falls.
“It just makes you feel the wonder of the falls,” Gromosiak said.
Hanover’s first entry into the Niagara Falls series was unveiled in 1991 in recognition of the 50th anniversary of the Rainbow Bridge. The piece takes viewers back in time to when the bridge was under construction, complete with 1940-style cars parked in a nearby lot. The framed original was purchased by the U.S. Bridge Commission, which later commissioned Hanover to do several more in the series.
Another series favorite is a painting Hanover did to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Maid of the Mist in 1996. The picturesque scene pans the lower river below the falls where the maid offers tours and includes detailed versions of every vessel used since 1846.
Hanover said he loves to blend familiar people with some of his historic backdrops. For example, the Past Tense — Future Tense print being featured today includes an image of Greater Niagara Newspapers photographer James Neiss taking a photo of a couple in front of the American Falls, but it’s painted to replicate a typical scene from the late-1800s.
After discovering his love of painting at age 21, Hanover honed his skills by working as a technical illustrator for several years before becoming a full-time artist. His main headquarters are at the Hanover House, but he also works out of the Niagara Arts and Cultural Center.
Hanover, 54, hopes to one day compile a book cataloging all of his artwork in the Niagara Falls series and include the stories behind them.
Proceeds from the two-day exhibit will benefit the Niagara Falls Police Department Community Services Unit. He also is accepting commissions on future Niagara pieces and other subject matter.
“There are so many more aspects of the falls and gorge to be explored,” he said. “I just hope I live long enough to paint everything I want.”
Contact reporter Rick Forgioneat 282-2311, ext. 2257.

IF YOU GO
• WHAT: Art exhibit featuring Niagara Falls artist Paul Hanover
n WHEN: 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday
• WHERE: The Hanover House B&B, Studio and Art Gallery, 610 Buffalo Ave., Niagara Falls
• DETAILS: Prints from Hanover’s Niagara Falls series will be on display and available for purchase, including the newly released “Past Tense — Future Tense — Niagara”

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