Member Moment: Bryan Garris’ “The Praying Tree” Displayed at Georgia State Capitol with Art of Georgia Program

Bryan Garris, Immediate Past Chair and Co-founder of the Dahlonega Arts Alliance (DAA), had his photograph “The Praying Tree” selected for display at the Georgia State Capitol as part of the Art of Georgia program, presented by the Georgia Council for the Arts in partnership with the Governor’s Office.

The Praying Tree was one of 40 pieces selected from Georgia across a variety of mediums for inclusion in this year’s Art of Georgia exhibit.

The Art of Georgia exhibition is a rotating visual arts showcase presented by the Georgia Council for the Arts in partnership with the Office of the Governor. Since its inception in 2012, this initiative highlights the creativity and diversity of Georgia’s contemporary artists by featuring their work in both the executive offices of the State Capitol and the Ballroom of the Governor’s Mansion. This prestigious platform not only honors individual artistic achievement but also reinforces the vital role the arts play in enriching Georgia’s communities — culturally, socially, and even economically.

Bryan (Upper Right Hand Corner) Pictured with other 2026 Art of Georgia Participants with Governor Brian Kemp in the Georgia State Capitol

Garris, a Dahlonega-based photographer, works primarily in black-and-white film and produces traditional silver-gelatin prints in his darkroom. “The Praying Tree” reflects his continued focus on natural subjects and traditional photographic processes. The selection recognizes both Garris’ work and the contributions of local artists across Georgia. Bryan’s work will be displayed in the Capitol Building until January 2027.

To learn more about the Art of Georgia Program, click here.
To learn more about Bryan and his photography, visit his website or follow him on social media at @havefilm_willtravel