Virginia Mallon / Fat Canary Journal

This exhibition, curated by Virginia Mallon, serves as a retrospective tribute on the 30th anniversary of Robert Barrell's passing. The collection examines Barrell’s work within the context of his profound influence as a mentor and educator.

 

Mallon, who began her apprenticeship with Barrell at the Forest Park School of Art at age 15, worked in his studio for a decade. She also taught the children’s art class from 1980 to 1985. Her curatorial approach is deeply informed by this personal and professional relationship.

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The exhibition features a selection of Barrell’s works alongside those of his former students and young artists he met in his studio, including Mallon herself. This dual presentation seeks to illustrate a direct lineage of artistic development and pedagogical legacy. By juxtaposing the master's creations with the emerging voices he guided, the collection provides a unique opportunity to study the passing of technique, philosophy, and aesthetic sensibilities across generations.

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The curatorial focus is not merely commemorative but analytical, inviting viewers to consider the impact of mentorship on artistic trajectories. The works on display collectively demonstrate the enduring power of Barrell’s teaching, highlighting how his studio served as a crucible for artistic formation.

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The exhibition will be on view at the Queens College Art Center Gallery in October 2025. It is our honor to share these works, which collectively stand as a testament to a life dedicated to art and the cultivation of future artists.