Opening at WallSpace-LNK: "Tell it Slant" by David Routon

Self-Portrait at Desk 30x42" Oil on canvas
Self-Portrait at Desk 30x42" Oil on canvas

Opening at WallSpace-LNK, the exhibition called "Tell it Slant" will be open on Dec. 1st. The show includes a selection of paintings, drawings, and prints celebrating the late David Routon’s unique imagery. This will be open from Dec. 1st-23rd. The show was curated by Bri Murphy.

David Routon was born Dec. 6, 1931, in Jackson, Tennessee, to Ralph and Hallie (Wheat) Routon. He served as a U.S. Marine in the Korean War before going on to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts in studio art at Mexico City College and a Master of Fine Arts in art practice at the University of Iowa with emphases in painting and printmaking.

He taught for 23 years at University of Nebraska-Lincoln, starting on Aug. 23, 1976, and retiring as an emeritus professor in 1999. Routon influenced generations of artists, not only through his teaching, but through his own work. As longtime professor of painting and drawing he has taught at other universities like Michigan State University, State University College at Plattsburgh and University of Minnesota.

WallSpace-LNK gallerist Michael Farrell notes, “In addition to being a talented draftsman and painter, David Routon was a well-known and beloved figure on the arts scene in Lincoln. He was a figure at nearly every opening or visual arts event, offering enthusiastic and piquant commentary about the works on exhibit. This exhibition is a chance for art lovers to once again see and new viewers to appreciate David’s work, which was last exhibited in 2017.”

This is an excellent opportunity to honor and acquire works by the late artist. The show will feature a broad range of works, including framed and unframed pieces at various price points.

The show includes a selection of paintings, drawings, and prints celebrating David’s unique imagery. His representations of the human figure evoke the admonition of poet Emily Dickinson to “Tell all the truth but tell it slant.” Working from direct observation, photographs, old movie stills and more, Routon explored the emotive and psychological implications of conventional portraiture and personal imagery. Some images are fully rendered; others suggest varying degrees of completeness.

The open reception was hosted by David's family, joined by curator Bri Murphy, to share thoughts and reminiscences about David.

For appointment artwork viewing, sales or information contact
Michael Farrell at 402 429 3684 (text only) or: mfarrell.1st@gmail.com

Extra parking (red circle) in the gravel lot behind Conner's Antiques to the north of the gallery (yellow arrow).

Michael Farrell has welcomed over 20 artists to make use of the WallSpace-LNK gallery's "artist as curator" opportunities so far. There will be several new visiting artist curated exhibitions again later in 2023. For information about displaying your work at the gallery get in touch with Michael via text to 402 429 3684 or email mfarrell.1st@gmail.com

More details at: https://www.davidrouton.com/