Houston-based artist Libbie J. Masterson returns to Catherine Couturier Gallery for Delicate, a new exhibition of three separate series, all with a common inspiration. It began as an homage to Edward Steichen, who was not only a great photographer but also a great painter. Inspired by a painting of his in the Portland Museum, and upon seeing a print of his Pond-Moonlight, Masterson became fascinated with how his Tonalist painting is so evident in his photography. Having a background in painting, Masterson set out to bring the delicate quality found in Steichen's Tonalist painting into her own photography, using paint and toners, as well as varying exposures, to this effect.

The influence of Steichen along with Masterson's two favorite artists, George Inness and Sergei Rachmaninov, both Tonalists, is strong in this exhibition, with a series inspired by each of them.

When not actively engaged in her own photographic endeavors, Masterson also serves as curator for the Houston Center for Photography. She maintains a career as a scenic designer for ballet and opera companies, including her highly acclaimed sets for Houston Grand Opera's HGOco premiere production of The Memory Stone.

On view through Oct. 18.