The Enterprise - White Salmon, Washington

Library to show case golden age of lighting

Vintage lamps restored to former glory

February 12, 2013

The public is invited to view a unique display of oil and electric lamps (circa 1920 through the 1940) being featured at the White Salmon Valley Community Library.

These distinctive pieces of "illuminated art," have been fully-restored by Keith Anderson, proprietor of Illum-N-Art of the Gorge, vintage lamp restoration located in White Salmon.

The lamps, the type now mostly seen in museums, will be available for viewing throughout the month of February during regular library hours.

Anderson's business satisfies two of his greatest passions: keeping the beauty of these classic lamps alive; and supporting charitable gifts for needy kids.

He has been intrigued by the beauty and detail of vintage lamps since childhood forays into his grandmother's attic, saying he has a personal mission to preserve...one piece at a time....historic American lamps whose heyday was during the "Golden Age of Lighting." To address his second passion, all proceeds from Illum-n-art lamps go to nonprofit charities for children in need.

The lamps Anderson restores are principally from the Art Deco period when American pride in craftsmanship was the standard by which the world measured quality.

As he explains, most of these lamps aren't yet technically antiques, (i.e., 100 years old); however, having personally refurbished and/or restored each vintage lamp, he believes they are now easily capable of achieving that status.

Already rare, the appeal of these lamps will only increase with age. Anderson's hope is that each of his lamps is now destined to become a family heirloom as genuine as the treasures from his grandmother's attic.

For more information about this library exhibit call 493-1132.