The Ashby-Hodge Gallery of American Art, on the campus of Central Methodist University, will host two works by one of the country’s most famous artists as part of its “Winter Wonderland” exhibit, opening February 1. The pair of Andy Warhol portraits, generously loaned by Drs. Beth ’82 and Todd Whitaker, will be on display in the Bingham Gallery.
“To support the arts in general and the university is an honor,” said Beth, who began her Central career as a music major before finding her passion in elementary education. “We’re happy to provide an opportunity for people to get to see these works. They’re really unique and interesting, and they’re Warhols, so everyone needs to see them.”
Santa Claus and The Witch, both from Warhol’s “The Myths” collection, will be displayed along with a number of pieces from the Gallery’s permanent collection that complement Warhol’s work. Warhol, who passed away in 1987, was known as the face of the Pop Art movement of the 20th century and painted the Myths series to reflect the theatricality of America and Hollywood.
Meanwhile, in the Geist Gallery will be an exhibit of watercolor works by Missouri artist and educator Marilynne Bradley. Bradley’s works feature many familiar scenes from “middle Missouri,” as she has spent her career painting and giving workshops in Arrow Rock.
“For 40 years, I was there painting everything, so I know everything that’s in Arrow Rock and Rocheport,” Bradley said, adding that she was “one of the first” to ride the Katy Trail from Clinton to St. Charles, painting all along the way. “I did around 120 paintings over two years from along the Katy Trail, and some of those are in this show.”
All of the pieces in the exhibit, Bradley says, were done plein air style, meaning the artist painted while outside observing the subject. Painting with watercolor allows her to work quickly and without waiting long for the artwork to dry. While she still paints in vibrant watercolor, Bradley says her art style has changed in recent years to a “geometric transformation” style, much more architectural.
Rounding out the “Winter Wonderland” show in the Yancey Gallery will be mixed media works by Brother Mel Meyer, S.M. The Missouri born artist and Marianist brother created more than 10,000 works in his career and is best known for his metal sculptures, paintings, and textile work. On exhibit will be seven watercolors and five acrylic paintings from the Gallery’s permanent collection.
All three exhibits will be open to the public starting Sunday, February 1 with a reception at 1:30 p.m. on the first floor of Classic Hall. The show will remain open until April 16, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. each Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. The Gallery will be closed during CMU spring break, from March 8-15. Special tours and groups are also welcome by appointment. Contact curator Tyler Pierson at tpierson@centralmethodist.edu or 660-248-6304 to schedule a time.