Erik ReeL : Full Circle

The Morris Graves Museum of Art and the Humboldt Arts Council will be presenting a solo show of paintings and works on paper by Erik ReeL from 12 March to 1 May 2016.  Jemima Harr, Executive Director, is the curator.  Growing up in Seattle, ReeL was heavily influenced by Morris Graves and his compatriots, Mark Tobey and Kenneth Callahan from an early age; these artists were major factors in his choice to pursue painting and art.  

ReeL states, "For me, this exhibition and showing in this particular museum is like coming full circle. It is a great privilege to be exhibiting with the organization that takes care of a collection and estate that contains work by artists that had such an impact on my development, including two Tobeys as well as many fine works by Morris Graves.

"These artists not only set an example in Seattle and for future artists through their art, but by their courage and open life style, setting a tone, at least within the art community, of greater acceptance and tolerance for anyone of any orientation and persuasion. examples that eventually impacted the entire city and beyond. The sheer metaphysical force of their thought and lives went far beyond the demands of any mere painting praxis."  

There will be an exhibition catalog with contributions from Jemima Harr, Jae Carlsson, and the artist.