The Artist:

Johnny Alterman was born in 1942 in Miami, Florida. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1964, a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Miami School of Law in 1969, and a Master of Arts degree from San Francisco State University in 1979. Mr. Alterman's fine art photography is included in numerous prestigious museum and private collections. His work is exhibited regionally, nationally and internationally.

The Artwork:

In January 1999, Alterman generously donated this gift of art to the Hillsborough County Parks Department. He was visiting the University of South Florida for medical care for his Parkinson's disease, when his doctor encouraged him to visit Lettuce Lake Park as part of his healing process. This walk in the park not only inspired the photographer but also helped heal the patient. Johnny wrote to Ed Radice, director of Parks and Recreation to express his gratitude and to share these photographs.

In collaboration with the Parks Department, the volunteer Public Art Committee coordinated the framing of these outstanding images that reflect the photographer's visit to one of Hillsborough County's finest parks. Located at 6920 East Fletcher Ave., Lettuce Lake Park is open to the public everyday and offers beautiful scenery, pathways and places for picnicing and recreation.

In the near future, the "Lettuce Lake Portfolio" will travel throughout Hillsborough County for exhibition in different venues including the Tampa Airport, the City of Temple Terrace City Hall, and several libraries.

For more information about Lettuce Lake Park, phone (813) 987-6204. For information about the artist or these photographs, please contact William Iverson, Project Manager, (813) 307-1070.

View the Collection of Images