For almost two decades David A. Lauver has photographed the folkways and expressions of joy and determination that surround the Central Pennsylvania Amish and Old Order Mennonites. The primary focus of Lauver’s career has been the communities of “plain people”—so-called for their resistance to modern customs and dress—who live, work, and worship in Snyder, Union, Lancaster, and Mifflin Counties quietly making their presence little known. Since 1972 Lauver has documented the changes which continue to take place in these communities, particularly from the incursion of modern social concerns, the Pennsylvania highway system, electric power lines that intrude on their properties and the curiosity-seeking public. Lauver’s interest in the plain people of Pennsylvania has a special dimension because he is a direct descendant of Jacob Lauver, the found of the Lauver Mennonite Church in Juniata County. Living with Amish and Mennonite families from 1978 to 1986, he had the opportunity to participate in their daily activities and gain insights about their lifestyles. Careful not to exploit the people he photographs, Lauver has earned year of trust and respect which he invests into his art. He intends to dispel some of the myths surrounding the Amish community. One such myth is that the plain people do not allow their picture to be taken; although some sects prohibit photographs, others do not. Some allow themselves to be photographed from a distance or from behind, which children usually can be photographed without reservation. Lauver’s sensitive depictions of the children of the plain people liberate their joyful spirit allowing them the ephemeral pleasures of vanity that will soon give way to more serious life obligations as they grow older. They cavort in the schoolyard, modeling for the camera and proudly displaying treasured artwork created by their own hands. The exhibition will contain 50 photographs depicting various aspects of the lives of the plain people in Central Pennsylvania, including children, schools, adults, families, transportation, farming, worship, animals, domestic environments, etc. Sharing the spotlight is a sampling of colorful quilts, exquisitely crafted artful statements for which the Amish and Old Order Mennonites are so well known.   Valerie Livingston   Amish Big Valley School, Back Mountain Road, Pennsylvania. David A. Lauver. Cibachrome. 14 x 20" Collection of the artist.