PHILADELPHIA - "The Mennonites: Photographs by Larry Towell," which opens at the University of Pennsylvania's Arthur Ross Gallery on July 31, offers 50 photographs documenting a rare visual history of an isolated cultural group. The exhibit, which runs through Sept. 23, illustrates the Mennonites' integrity and lifestyle simplicity, giving viewers access into a devout religious group living in insular Mexican colonies where photography is generally forbidden.

Towell, spent 10 years traveling with the group and documenting its migrant workers.  His work identifies intimacy in different contexts, from armed conflict to rural life.  His photography reveals the most important and human elements of its subject matter.

Known for his photographs and their social commentary, Towell will be the guest of honor at the Gallery's "Meet the Artist" reception on Sept. 11, from 5 to 8 p.m.

The Arthur Ross Gallery is located at 220 S. 34th St.  Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and weekends noon-5 p.m.

All exhibits are free and open to the public.  Additional information is available at www.upenn.edu/ARG or 215-898-2083.