When Fairhope, Alabama artist Cynthia Rush discovered a box of nearly 400 photographs taken shortly before World War II, it captured her interest in multiple ways.

Flight and military photos from just prior to WWII pair with modern mixed media at Orange Beach Art Center through Feb. 13.

The black and white photos that encompassed military life and flight training were taken by an uncle she never knew. Lt. John Rush lost his life at age 27, while testing a plane in Pensacola during the summer of 1941.

Cynthia had always been interested in flight, often bringing her perspective to canvas as she developed her own artistic skills.

The discovery of the photographs began an exploration into her uncle’s life, creating a strong bond between two family members who never met, yet shared the same passion for flight and a keen artist’s eye.

The exhibition Flight Paths: A Fighter Pilot and Artist Meet Outside of Time is the culmination of Cynthia’s research and visual expression of the similarities between the lieutenant and herself.

You can view this touching display for free at the Orange Beach Art Center through Saturday, February 13. The center is located at 26389 Canal Rd., and is open Tuesdays through Fridays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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