John F. Stenvall (American, 1907 – 1998), Flowers on a Table, tempera on board, c.1934; 15.5”h. x 18.5”w.
Permanent Collection – Western Illinois University Art Gallery

An exhibition of still lifes selected from the Western Illinois University Art Gallery Permanent Collection.  The still life tradition as an art form is based on direct observation of inanimate objects.  Still life has long been used in academic settings as a basic foundation for learning to see, to study color and composition, and to explore application of various media.  In the studio setting an artist’s control of light, the selection and arrangements of objects, the choices of medium and stylistic approach all offer great variety and endless possibilities for exploration of visual perception and expression.  The exhibit presents paintings, prints, drawings and sculptures by several artists having various approaches to the still life genre. We anticipate presenting a still life in progress for the duration of the show to demonstrate the studio process in the gallery.

related website: www.wiu.edu/art/gallery/permanent.htm