New Exhibit and Book “Silents on the Islands”

More than 250 silent movies were filmed on the Channel Islands circa 1910 to 1930. Famous actors in these movies included Gloria Swanson, Rudolph Valentino, Douglas Fairbanks, Buster Keaton, Oliver Hardy, and Stan Laurel.

The earliest films were only 5 or 10 minutes long, and filmed on a beach. Island movies later grew into million-dollar features with casts of thousands.

On Saturday, October 5, a new exhibit – Silents on the Islands – will open at the Chrisman Channel Islands Center in Carpinteria.

The exhibit features photos of scenes from silent movies filmed on Santa Catalina Island and Santa Cruz Island, as well as colorful movie posters.

The exhibit is curated by Betsy J. Green, author of the new book Silents on the Islands: Silent movies filmed on California’s Channel Islands. She will be at the museum from 10 AM to 4 PM on October 5, answering questions and playing old-time movie music. Her book ($25) is available at local bookstores and amazon.com.

Green is happy to present talks/slideshows about her exhibit & book for local clubs and organizations. Reach her at betsyjgreen.com.

The Chrisman Channel Islands Center is located at 4994 Carpinteria Avenue in Carpinteria. Hours are 10 to 4, Tuesday – Saturday. Suggested donation $10. Visit ccislandscenter.org.

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