Never Retallack  | Entertainment Editor

The Cannon Gallery opened a new art exhibit on Feb. 28, “An Artful Life: Celebrating the Life of Creator, Teacher, and Collector Alfred Maurice.” It is one of the seven exhibits open to commemorate Maurice’s life and the work that he did. 

The gallery contains pieces from his time in Chicago; most of them are abstract architectural paintings that are bright and eye-catching — all of which are from the years 1979 to 1989, and any proceedings benefit the Maurice Prize.

Maurice was a passionate artist and has been known to say, “To me, art isn’t anything precious or special. It’s a way of expressing oneself, on par with writing or talking.”

The gallery at Campbell Hall is bold, and the layout of the stark white walls with vibrant and unique buildings are enticing.

The majority of the artwork is made with acrylic on canvas, with only three other pieces created with graphite on paper. One of which called, “Self Portrait with Painting,” features Maurice smiling proudly, representing the pure joy he had when it came to making art.

The artwork is simple yet unique; I highly recommend anyone interested in art — whether or not they have much background knowledge — to go and take a look.

The gallery will be open until March 20 in Campbell Hall from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Photos by Never Retallack