My First Art Show

Mrs. Owings and I at the Heights Center For Hope Art Opening

Larry takes a pause with some of my paintings in the background

November 20, 2011

It took 47 years, but I finally had my first art show. To put it more directly, after some encouragement by friends and family, I finally got up the nerve to put some of my stuff on display in public. To tell the truth, it was less stressful and much more enjoyable than I imagined it would be. My friend Joe Stadola was the person who connected me to the show and promoted my work to the coordinators and I am grateful for his efforts and his kindness.

The show was held at the Heights Center For Hope which is a part of Hope Lutheran Church in East Saint Paul. The show is described as follows,  "Be Still. The show will be an exploration in movement, or non-movement as the case may be. The framing question is this: "What happens in the stillness of our lives?" Just as there would be no light without darkness, there would be no movement without stillness". So I chose a few of my paintings that reflected stillness or the nature of being still.

The highlight of the show for me was meeting so many friendly people and just being able to discuss art and the process of creating art. I shared the stage with two other Artists, John Acosta and photographer Robert Nelson. Both produce very interesting and unique work. John Acosta is an accomplished painter and also had one of his tile pieces on display, which got lots of well deserved attention. It can be seen in the photograph below.

Guests taking a look at some of my paintings

The Artist John Acosta, as a guest views some of his work in the background

Robert Nelson displayed a very interesting and unique group of photographs. His photo's have the quality of drawings and paintings and he definitely has an eye for composition. 

The show will be open until January 9th. I want to thank several of my friends who made the journey out on a cold and snowy night to help support my work. It was great to see them and spend some time together. My wife and I had a great time.