• the217
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• Old dogs, new show

“Old Dogs Redux” at Urbana’s Cinema Gallery was a well-earned day in the sun for retired U of I and Parkland faculty artists. The opening night was a warm affair, full of camaraderie and admiration as friends and former pupils greeted the artists. The festive atmosphere was enhanced by the somewhat cluttered nature of the gallery, with the featured works sitting shoulder to shoulder with works by younger artists.

The featured works covered a variety of styles and media. Kenneth Lansing’s delicately painted watercolor “Bellagio” sat near Lee Chesney’s engraving “Death,” while Dennis Rowan’s two collages – “Yesterday’s Children I & II” – framed Don Lake’s dynamic “Industry: Simmer.” Two abstract works by Glenn Bradshaw were featured. Both the sublimely green “Peridot” and the shimmering “Summer Sign I” – executed in casein pain and gold leaf – showed truly interesting uses of materials.

Sculpture at Old Dogs Redux was also strong. Frank Gallo’s works showed strong, very traditional forms. Gallo’s bust of Lincoln – a maquette for a larger work designed for the Champaign County courthouse – was calm and sad. Don Firth’s jewel-like porcelain tea service nearly jumped out of its display case. The works on display at “Old Dogs Redux” skillfully remind audiences of the time effort their artists paid to their careers.