Bathroom sinks and ghosts at book store

Sitting on the corner of Washington and Third streets is Boxcar Books, a small bookstore that has a momentary touch of individuality. This month, it is running an exhibit of artist Justin Clifford Rhody’s photography.\nAs people from outside entered the gallery opening, Rhody greeted everyone with a kind “thank you for coming.” The atmosphere was welcoming, as onlookers were offered hors d’ oeuvres and friendly handshakes.\nRhody, who began his photography career only 2 1/2 years ago, was eager to show off his work. He is multitalented and also works as a musician in his spare time.\n“I’ve worked with several bands and music groups,” Rhody said. “But photography is something I’m passionate about.” \nHaving traveled to many places in and outside the country, Rhody uses what he sees as his inspiration. \n“Going places, you see a lot of things, and I take pictures of it,” Rhody said.\nThe photos range in content from bathroom sinks and trashed office spaces to Easter bunnies and ghosts.\nOn each of the open walls, in the spaces above the cluttered bookshelves, are six to eight small photos in wooden or black frames with white background covers. The definite images all stand alone and tell a story about Rhody’s adventures. They are pieces of the photographer’s past.\nRhody’s friend Adam Sweet browsed the walls of the store and said his favorite photo was one of a ghost. \nSweet said he enjoys the environment Rhody builds at his openings.\n“It’s a relaxed setting for an art opening, and I like it,” Sweet said. “He plays cool music and buys all the food himself.” \nRhody is a self-taught photographer, having only high school experience when he began.\nFirst-time Boxcar Books visitor Will Burgett decided to come after he found out about the opening in the paper. He too enjoyed the art he had seen in the bookstore. Burgett described Rhody’s art as “urban-ness.” \nHaving friends who work at Boxcar, it wasn’t hard for Rhody to be featured as an artist. \n“I just called and requested it,” Rhody said. “And usually you have to call at least a year in advance.”\nRhody will be featured at Boxcar Books during the store’s regular business hours until August 1.