LUBBOCK, Texas– Eric Draper spent eight years capturing the public and private moments of former President George W. Bush’s life, as the Chief White House photographer. Now, he will share them with the people of West Texas.
The West Texas Photographers (WTP) are hosting “Inside the Oval Office: An Intimate Evening with President George W. Bush’s White House Photographer,” offering a look at some of the most pivotal moments in recent history, through Draper’s lens.
“They are with the President from the moment he walks out of his bedroom, to the moment that he ends his day,” said Deanna Duncan with WTP. “All those private moments of the day: as he’s struggling to decide what to say when he makes a phone call, as he’s getting ready for the White House Easter Egg Hunt with all of the kids, as he’s just playing with his dog.”
One such image, a portrait of the former president behind the wheel of a car donning a cowboy hat, has special significance. A closer look at the scrawl across the right corner reveals Bush’s signature.
Duncan said they will be auctioning off this autographed portrait for charity, along with several prints signed by Draper. The proceeds from the auction will benefit Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep and go to support several photography scholarships.
Duncan emphasizes the event is for everyone, not just photography enthusiasts.
“It is actually for anyone who loves America,” Duncan said. “To bring in those who love history, those who love the ‘inside scoop,’ and for those who love photography, as well.”
“Inside the Oval Office” will be on June 24 from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00pm at the Merket Alumni Center on 2521 17th Street. For ticket and table pricing, CLICK HERE.
