Sherer documents historic preservation efforts

"The Roundhouse, Northampton 2001" is part an upcoming exhibit by Stan Sherer at Historic Northampton.

"New Visions: The Art of Historic Preservation," an exhibit featuring contemporary images by Chronicle photographer Stan Sherer and early pictures, opens Oct. 20 at Historic Northampton.

     Sponsored by the Northampton Historical Commission, the exhibit documents the most significant historic preservation projects undertaken in the city during the past 25 years.

     The historical commission's role is to preserve, protect and promote the cultural assets of the city. To that end, annual Preservation Awards have been given since 1975, a period when significant restoration and rehabilitation of major residential and commercial properties in all city neighborhoods was completed.

     Showcasing the 15 best of these projects will serve as a reminder of the importance of saving local architectural heritage. "We hope to inspire future generations of restorers," said Louise Bloomberg, commission member and project coordinator.

     Sherer and Tris Metcalfe, an architect from the commission, will do several presentations in the schools in connection with the exhibit, and the images will have a permanent home in City Hall.

     The project has been funded by the Arts Lottery Program of the Massachusetts Cultural Council, as administered by the Northampton Arts Council; Florence Savings Bank, and the City of Northampton.

     The exhibit will be on display at Historic North-ampton, 46 Bridge St., from Oct. 20 to Nov. 24. An opening reception is being held Sunday, Oct. 21 from 1-4 p.m.