Celebrate the last days of summer with homegrown art at the University of Iowa Museum of Art First Friday reception from 5 to 7 p.m. on Sept. 6 at hotelVetro in downtown Iowa City. For $5, enjoy refreshments and light hors d’oeuvres from Formosa, Dustin Busch's unique style of Iowa blues, and selections from artist Barry Phipps’ Iowa Photographs series.

Phipps is first and foremost a fine art photographer who brings an art world sensibility to his event assignments. His work is inspired by and is a continuation of mid-20th century street and art photographers such as Garry Winogrand, William Eggleston, Diane Arbus, and Lee Friedlander.

He considers his unique approach to be an alternative to today’s typical digital photography, both in look and approach. His cameras are small, quiet, humble and discreet, and most people don’t even realize he is the “official” photographer at events. He uses this to his advantage, as he is able to capture candid photos mostly unnoticed.

UIMA First Fridays provide an ideal chance to usher in your weekend and mingle with other art-enthusiasts for a great cause.

First Fridays are sponsored in part byH. Dee & Myrene Hoover in honor of Alden Lowell Doud; hotelVetro and other generous UIMA sponsors.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all UI-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to attend this forum, call the UI Museum of Art in advance at 319-335-1727