New Art Gallery Opening

A new exhibit opened up in the Art Gallery on the bottom floor of Sam’s Hall of Fine Arts on Friday. Former KWU student and now artist, Billy Brassea, with more than 20 paintings, had his own reception. He is a former ballet dancer and Broadway performer.

The exhibit was titled Alternate Reality in Oil. The reception was on Friday, November 15 from 5-6:30. The exhibition will be on display from November 11-December 13.

Interview with Professor Baker

Before the event, Assistant Professor of Graphic Design Andrew Baker talked about Brassea and his artwork. He also talked about how Brassea does “all this theater art; you will see Jesters and a lot of different types of animations from the theater.” 

“He also does western series works, mostly on canvas and oil.” Baker also talked about his new work, which “is really a focus on fantasy art. He loves to get into different types of ways to interpret fantasy, dreams, and dream states. He’s experimenting with different types of material, whether it’s cloth, vinyl, or leather.”

Baker also talked about how “it’s great to have a local artist exhibiting and showcasing their work for students to come in and engage with.”

Exhibit Time

A mixture of twenty or so students and faculty were at the reception mingling with each other and talking about the amazing works of art. There was a spread of cheese and crackers, salami, and cookies for all to enjoy  

Before Brassea spoke to everyone about his story and how he got started, he went around to many of the individuals there to talk with them personally about some of his artwork. He was kind enough to answer any questions they had about him or his work. 

Main Event

Lori Wright introduced Brassea just after 5:30. Wright is the Associate Professor of Art, Chair, Division of Fine Arts, Chair, Department of Art and Design. She was also the first art teacher Brassea had at Kansas Wesleyan.

Wright introduced Brassea and talked about how she was “thrilled to have Bill here.”

Brassea showed off his “first painting ever” and pleaded with the audience that they believed he “has progressed from where he had started.” 

He also talked about his story and how its “been about learning technique, and it’s not over. Brassea started learning about carnival painting, and it really helped me learn about facial structure.” 

Brassea also had several works for sale that those in attendance could buy. For those who weren’t able to make it, he has much of his work on his Instagram, which can be found here. Bill Brassea (@billbrassea) • Instagram photos and videos