Lecturer explores lasting impact of Elvis' image

The King came back to life Tuesday evening during Erika Doss' lecture, "Elvis Culture: Fans, Faith and Image."\n"The three most well known images of the American culture are Jesus, Coca Cola and Elvis (Presley)," Doss, an art history professor and chair of the American studies department at the University of Colorado, Boulder, said. "Elvis is everywhere and shows no signs of disappearing."\nStephanie Taylor, visiting lecturer in art history, invited Doss to speak. Her lecture was sponsored by the Robert and Avis Burke Lectures in the History of Art.\nIn 1992, Doss became interested in why Presley was such a prominent image in American culture, she said. Since then, she has researched Presley extensively. She searched through archives, talked to Presley impersonators and visited Presley's home. Thus, she has created a new and refreshing take on Presley and his fans.\nShowing pictures of Presley memorabilia, shrines, souvenirs and Graceland, Doss said each of the slides contributed to the story behind Presley imagery in America's culture.\nDoss discussed how the fans, the memorabilia and Presley's image catered to all types of Americans, which contributed to his popularity. Presley was alternately a rock rebel, teen angel, movie star, patriot and Las Vegas superstar. All of these personalities combined in one man, helping to keep Presley's memory and legend alive, even today. \nDoss said she's made certain decisions about Presley, and that she isn't a die-hard fan, but is simply interested in him. \nHer interest sparked at a convention in 1992, when a famous picture of a head of Christ was shown to the audience. When asked what other image could compare to its popularity, Presley's image immediately came to her mind. \nFrom that catalyst, Doss created her book.\nFor those in the audience who remembered when Presley was alive, it was a reminder of how many people adored him and what and who he was. It was a chance for students who were not so familiar with the singer to get a better idea of what he meant to so many people and who he was in the eyes of Doss and his fans.\nDoss showed interest in the life and fans of Presley; the time and effort she devoted to the book shows that dedication.