HOOVER, Ala. – Starting Thursday, Nov. 5, Aldridge Gardens will open its gallery to a new exhibition highlighting three decades of work by local artist Tom Dameron. The show, which runs through Jan. 4, presents 51 pieces that span watercolor, acrylic, etching and portraiture, offering visitors a vibrant look at the natural world and beloved Birmingham personalities.
Nature and Music on Canvas
Dameron’s paintings celebrate flowers and garden scenes that echo the impressionist legacy of Claude Monet’s Giverny garden. Sunflowers, hydrangeas, lilies, roses and water lilies appear in detailed watercolors and acrylics, each rendered with a keen eye for color and light. In addition to botanical subjects, the exhibition includes portraits of regional musicians such as Bobby Horton, Topper Price and Herb Trotman, as well as an acrylic tribute to the late Leon Redbone.
Local Figures and Community Ties
Beyond musicians, Dameron honors other Birmingham icons. Viewings feature a portrait of the late sculptor Frank Fleming and a depiction of Benard Tamburello, owner of the popular Vecchia Pizzeria & Mercato. These works underscore the artist’s deep connection to the city’s cultural fabric.
Artist Background
While many know Dameron for his art, his professional life has been rooted in healthcare. He spent more than 50 years working as a hospital pharmacist, pursuing his artistic and musical passions in his spare time. Largely self‑taught, he also played trombone in high school and later performed with a U.S. Army Reserve band, blending creativity across multiple disciplines.
Visit the Exhibition
The exhibition is free to the public. An opening reception will be held on Thursday, Nov. 12, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., offering a chance to meet the artist and enjoy light refreshments. Aldridge Gardens is located at 3530 Lorna Road in Hoover. The gardens themselves are open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., while the gallery operates from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Why It Matters
This showcase provides a family‑friendly cultural experience that reinforces the importance of local arts in strengthening community bonds. By highlighting a home‑grown talent who has balanced a long career in service with artistic dedication, the exhibition reflects the values of hard work, creativity and civic pride cherished by Hoover families.
Original reporting: Hoover Sun — read the source article.
