Austin landmarks as works of art

AUSTIN (KXAN) - A local artist hopes to cash-in on nostalgia this holiday season, offering pieces from a collection she calls "Vanishing Austin."

Jann Alexander's collection of photographs celebrates local landmarks that she says are endangered species" in this time where the city is going through major development.

"Austin is really unique in terms of the unusual creativity behind all the small businesses here," Alexander said.  "I think it's represented by the way they choose to do the signage that they do outside and the buildings they're located in."

Many of the pieces showcase signs and storefronts that would be familiar to almost any Austinite.

Alexander said she worries new high-rises and other developments will threaten the city's charm.

"You don't really see this kind of architechture and this type of neon signage, and these kinds of murals and paintings, just the unique expression, in other cities. And that's really what attracted me to live in Austin...I didn't come from here, but I got here as quick as I could!"

A poster featuring Alexander's photos is on sale at the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar, the Austin Museum of Art, and at Alexander's Web site, among other locations.