Virginia Mallon / Fat Canary Journal

PRESS RELEASE

 

 

From the very start, Robert Barrell's life was a testament to his artistic vision. Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1912, he moved to Queens, New York, as a child. Despite his family's disapproval of his artistic aspirations, he pursued his passion with unwavering determination. During the Great Depression, he faced immense hardship, experiencing homelessness at age 18 and living in a tent city in Central Park.

 

This difficult period didn't deter him. From 1930 to 1936, he honed his craft at the Art Students League, learning from masters like Hans Hofmann and Thomas Hart Benton. His talent led him to professional work, assisting with murals for the 1939-40 World's Fair and contributing to projects for the WPA, including murals at the Hayden Planetarium and the New York Public Library.

 

Along with fellow artists Pete Busa and Steve Wheeler, Barrell co-founded the Indian Space Painters, a group whose work was inspired by the indigineous art of the North Pacific.  This work was showcased in several prominent NYC galleries. Later in life, he dedicated himself to teaching, founding the Forest Park School of Art in 1968. He balanced his time between instructing students, including a young Cyndi Lauper, who later became his patron, and creating his own art.

 

Barrell's portfolio was as diverse as his life experiences. He created vibrant Indian Space pieces, serene romantic realism landscapes and nudes, and powerful works of political satire. His art was more than just a creative outlet; it was a vehicle for social commentary, where he used his voice to speak out against injustice. His  breathtaking landscapes  showed a profound appreciation for the beauty Barrell found in the natural world.

 

Robert Barrell's life and work are a powerful reminder of how art can endure and thrive, even in the face of adversity.

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This exhibit celebrates his work as well as those who were part of the Forest Park School of Art including:

 

Stephen Bozler, Patricia Rottino Cummins, 

Sara Frischer, Ski Holm, Madeline Lovallo,

Virginia Mallon, and Fred Schmidt

 

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