Composite photo by Dennis Marsico
T H E B U T L E R I N S T I T U T E O F A M E R I C A N A R T • S U M M E R / FA L L • 2 0 1 5
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EARLY LANDSCAPE PREDICTS ARTIST’S LATER WORK
Through 2015, the Butler Institute in Youngstown is exhibiting
a painting by Post Impressionist master Vincent van Gogh
(1853-1890). The artwork, on loan to the Butler from a private
Ohio collection, is titled In the Dunes (left), and is an oil on
board landscape painted by van Gogh in 1883 in the Hague.
This early work by the internationally revered painter predicts
the artistʼs later recognizable style of paint application,
composition and emotion.
Unsuccessful in gaining recognition in his lifetime, Vincent
van Gogh has become one of the most well-known artists in
the world, and his paintings have become prized by museums
and galleries around the globe.
According to Butler Director Dr. Louis Zona, “Although Vincent van Gogh lived more than a century ago, his work continues
to inﬂuence the art worldʼs views of beauty, as well as their style of painting. This is also true of the artists of this nation who,
in the 20th Century, became enamored of van Goghʼs paintings. It is wonderful to display this landscape here where van
Goghʼs inﬂuence can clearly be seen within the Butlerʼs collection of American masterpieces.”
In 1880, at age 27, van Gogh entered the Académie Royale des Beaux-Arts in Brussels, Belgium. The following winter, living
in Amsterdam, he began painting. He lived frugally, explored color theory, and studied the works of the great artists. Van
Gogh was painting peasants and rural landscapes using dark earth tones, and In the Dunes (In de Duinen) is an example of
these early works.
Van Gogh moved to Paris where his art began to take on the style that would make him famous. There, he discussed art with
some of the most avant-garde and inﬂuential artists of his time – including Gauguin, Bernard, and Toulouse-Lautrec. Van
Gogh then moved to rural France, where he was joined by Gauguin. While there, van Gogh entered the most productive and
creative period of his life painting his famous Sunﬂowers. It was also was a time of great turmoil for the artist who began a
period of hospital stays for mental illness and physical decline.
After just ten years of painting and producing some 900 paintings, Vincent van Gogh took his own life in 1890. Never fully
appreciated in his own time, it took only twenty years after van Goghʼs death for the art world to recognize the genius they
had lost.
PEOPLE & EVENTS
Summer/Fall 2015
In April, the Butler honored its Volunteers (pictured
above) at an evening event, held in the museumʼs
Beecher Court in Youngstown. Butler volunteers offer a
wide-range of services to the museum, assisting as
Museum Shop and Fine Art Sales Gallery staff,
conducting public tours for people of all ages, stafﬁng the
Butlerʼs information desk, and serving on the museumʼs
Board of Trustees. For more information about becoming
a Butler volunteer, contact René Sheakoski
[email protected], or call 330.743.1107, ext. 127.
_____________________________________________
To celebrate Black History Month, the museum hosted
a community event (left) in Youngstown to highlight Butler
collection works by African Americans . Special thanks to
Madonna Chism Pinkard and Reverend William King
for their efforts to promote this very special program.
_____________________________________________
California painter Warren Chang (right) visited the Butler for the opening of his solo show,
“Monterey Now.” This exhibition continues through June 14 at the Butler in Youngstown.
___________________________________________
Artist Sherrie McGraw (left) receives the Butler
Medal for Life Achievement in Art from Board
President Nicholas Zennario at the annual May
Trustees Circle members dinner (right). The award
has been given to notable art world personalities for
over three decades.A painting retrospective of
McGrawʼs work was seen at the Butler in Youngstown
in 2014.
Photos top, lower left and right by Will Drescher.
Center photos left and right by Joe Fragle.
THE BUTLER INSTITUTE OF AMERICAN ART • SUMMER/FALL NEWSLETTER • 2015
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PEOPLE & EVENTS
Summer/Fall 2015
Seniors from Canﬁeld High
School (right) were among
the many area school groups
that gathered at the Butler in
Youngstown to ﬁlm a segment
for the annual WFMJ/Ohio
Lottery TV spot “Best of the
Class.” The groups include
both 2015 valedictorians and
salutatorians.
Artist Pete Ballard recently attended the museumʼs exhibition opening for
his solo show titled “A Century of Fashion,” now on view in the Butler North
Americana Galleries.Ballard is seen (above) with some of the fashion dolls
that he created. The artist donated fourteen historically clothed dolls to the
Butler Institute. The exhibition will remain on view through 2015.
____________________________________________
Clevelandʼs Acuity-VCT team members Steve Cicci (left) and
Mike Elliot (below left) are seen installing wiring for the Butlerʼs
new state of the art security monitoring system. Acuity has
installed security systems at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts
and the Smithsonian Institution in Washington.
Acuity photos by Ken Platt
__________________________________________________
Linda and Bill Roemer of Pittsburgh are seen (above) with a
painting by Arshile Gorky—a gift to the Butler from their personal
collection. The work is on view in the Beeghly-Schaff Gallery on
the main ﬂoor of the Butler in Youngstown.
____________________________________________________
Trumbull County High School art students recently displayed
works in all media at the Butlerʼs Trumbull branch in Howland.
Seen (left) are Trumbull County art students students who
received awards at the show. The exhibition and awards were
sponsored by the Trumbull County Education Service Center.
THE BUTLER INSTITUTE OF AMERICAN ART • SUMMER/FALL NEWSLETTER • 2015
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EXHIBITIONS
Summer/Fall 2015
August 9 through September 27, 2015
Frederick Nichols: Landscapes
(Trumbull branch, Howland)
Meet the Artist Sunday, August 9 • 1-3 pm
Virginiaʼs Blue Ridge Mountains are the subject of this
exquisite landscape exhibition. Nicholsʼ paintings
portray the wilderness through the various seasons,
and explore the movement of time and space. The
Butlerʼs Trumbull branch is funded in part by
Foundation Medici.
June 21 through September 6, 2015
Evelyn Killian: Paintings (Mesaros Gallery,
Youngstown)
This exhibition features work on paper in a variety of
paint media by an American folk artist. The work
features a primitive sincerity and vibrant look at the
lives of everyday people.
A Midyear
work (left) by
David Dorsey,
Pittsford, NY.
July 12 through August 30, 2015
The 79th National Midyear (Youngstown)
Meet the Artists Sunday, July 19 • 1-3 pm
(RESCHEDULED DUE TO YSU FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS)
The Butlerʼs Midyear Show is open to artists age 18 or
older who reside within the ﬁfty United States or its
territories. Works in all two dimensional media are
eligible including oil, watercolor, acrylic, pastel,
drawings, prints, photographs and digital works. This
year the show was judged by New York artist Bob
Godfrey. The meet the artist event is free, reservations
are required. Call 330.743.1107, ext. 210 to reserve.
September 13 though October 25, 2015
RESCHEDULED
Rhoda Sherbell: Sculpture (Youngstown)
Meet the Artist Sunday, September 13 • 1-3 pm
(Davis Gallery)
Sculptor Rhoda Sherbell is a renowned portrait artist in
sculpture, with commissions from the Baseball Hall of
Fame in Cooperstown, NY as well as private
commissions from Yogi Berra, Casey Stengel (above),
Aaron Copland, among a host of other celebrities. She
has exhibited widely both in solo and group exhibitions,
and her work is found in the collections of the Museum
of Modern Art, the Brooklyn Museum, the National
Museum of American Art, the National Portrait Gallery,
The National Art Museum of Sport, and the Butler
Institute.
Call for Entries
Artists are encouraged to enter the Butlerʼs juried
shows. Three juried exhibitions are presented each
year; the Area Artists Annual occurs in the winter
months, while the Annual Midyear Show is seen each
summer. In addition, the Butlerʼs American Holiday
Show, which features works by artisans and crafts
people, occurs the ﬁrst weekend in December. For
information on rules for entry and the dates of these
shows, call Jean Shrefﬂer 330.743.1107, ext. 210.
THE BUTLER INSTITUTE OF AMERICAN ART • SUMMER/FALL NEWSLETTER • 2015
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EXHIBITIONS
Summer/Fall 2015
September 13 through December 31, 2015
Gisela Colón: Glo-Pods (Flad B Gallery, Youngstown)
Meet the Artist Sunday, September 13 • 1-3 pm
Gisela Colon has fused Op Art, Pop Art, and global art
world trends in a dazzling synthesis of elegant,
contemporary beauty. Inﬂuenced by the Light & Space
art of the Minimalists of the 1960s and 1970s, Colónʼs
Glo-Pods are meticulously created through a fabrication
process of molding and layering acrylic materials. This
exhibition is presented in conjunction with Katherine
Carter Associates.
This work by Jack Tworkov was a recent gift to the Butler from
Dr. Jonathan and Mrs. Alexandra Zimov, Riverdale, New York.
October 11 though December 20, 2015
Jack Tworkov: The Geometric Works
(Trumbull branch, Howland)
Jack Tworkov (1900-1982) was a founding member of
the New York School and is regarded as one of the
prominent ﬁgures who, along with Pollock and Kline,
created paintings that formed the basis for the Abstract
Expressionist movement in America. This exhibition
calls to the forefront Tworkov's historic presence and
contribution to American Art. This exhibition is funded in
part by the Youngstown Area Jewish Federation.
A work (left) by
Joseph Kleitsch
(1882-1931) is
included in the
California
Impressionism
exhibition.
A Mark
Giangaspero Self
Portrait from
2012
October 4 though November 29, 2015
California Impressionism (Youngstown)
Preview Event Saturday, October 3 (by invitation)
In the early years of the twentieth century, California
produced a unique artistic style which combined
aspects of American and European art. This style, often
called California Impressionism or California Plein Air
painting, concerned itself with light and color. As a
variant of the American Impressionist style, it focused
directly on the abundant California light. This exhibition
is from the collection of the Irvine Museum.
August 2 through October 11, 2015
Mark Giangaspero: Pastels
(Giffuni Gallery, Youngstown)
Meet the Artist Sunday, August 2, 2015 • 1-3 pm
Ohio painter Mark Giangaspero has become well
known for his large-scale portraits. His work has been
widely shown regionally, and is included in the Butlerʼs
permanent collection. This exhibition will focus upon the
artistʼs work in the pastel medium.
THE BUTLER INSTITUTE OF AMERICAN ART • SUMMER/FALL NEWSLETTER • 2015
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NEWS & EDUCATION
Summer/Fall 2015
The preservation and
maintenance of Butler
buildings is an
ongoing concern for
museum ofﬁcials.
Recently, professional
marble installers (left)
repaired and replaced
weather damaged
sections of the facade
of the Butler’s
Beecher Center South
Wing.
Photo by Susan
Carfano.
A Butler docent (above) is seen implementing the Good
Neighbors Program for fourth grade students at the Butler in
Youngstown.
COLLECTION RESTORATION NEWS
GOOD NEIGHBORS PROGRAM CONTINUES
Thanks to an Arts Engagement in American
Communities grant from the National Endowment for
the Arts (NEA) and a contribution from the
Youngstown Area Jewish Federation, the Butlerʼs
highly praised Good Neighbors Program has grown to
include several more schools in our region. This year,
the program has expand to include school districts in
Trumbull and Columbiana counties.
Thanks to a grant from the National Endowment for
the Humanities (NEH) and the Intermuseum
Conservation Association (ICA), the Butler has begun
a program to restore pieces from museumʼs prestigious
collection of works on paper. Following an assessment
from professional paper conservators, works by
photographic pioneer Eadweard Muybridge
(1830-1904) are being cleaned and reframed. These
works will be on view at the Butler in September in the
museumʼs Beecher Center Novak Gallery.
The Good Neighbors program is designed for fourth
graders, and serves as a partnership between the
schools and The Butler Institute of American Art.
Inspired by the museumʼs collection, students learn the
visual arts. By studying art and art vocabulary, the
youngsters are engaged in American history and
culture, and are presented with concepts that span
several learning disciplines. The program encourages
student inquiry and imagination as students engage
in the creative process.
In conjunction with the Muybridge exhibition, the Butler
will screen an award-winning documentary on the life
and work of this ingenious artist. The ﬁlm was ﬁrst seen
at the Cleveland (Ohio) ﬁlm festival. Screenings are set
for Tuesday, September 15 at noon and Sunday 20 at 2
pm in the Butlerʼs Beecher Center Auditorium in
Youngstown. This ﬁlm is not rated; parental guidance is
suggested.
The Good Neighbors Program is designed to improve
reading, writing, communication, studying and critical
thinking skills, and compliments curriculum standards in
technology, ﬁne arts and language arts designed by the
Ohio State Board of Education. For information on this
program call 330.743.1107, ext. 114.
This program is free and open to the public. Seating is
limited, and is offered on a ﬁrst come, ﬁrst served basis.
Call 330.743.1107, ext. 123 for more information.
BALCONY GALLERY NEARING COMPLETION
Seen (left)
is a work by
Muybridge
from the
Butler’s
collection.
Soon the Butler North Americana galleries will expand
to include a ﬁfth display space. The former choir loft of
the former First Christian Church building has been
converted into a beautiful gallery that features second
level viewing of the exquisite cobalt blue window in the
former churchʼs Great Hall. The gallery was designed
by architect Bob Buchanan. Special thanks to Butler
Trustee Doug Lumsden for overseeing this project. A
July dedication is being planned.
THE BUTLER INSTITUTE OF AMERICAN ART • SUMMER/FALL NEWSLETTER • 2015
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NEWS & EDUCATION
Summer/Fall 2015
BUTLER SUMMER ARTS DAY CAMP
CREATE A BUTLER LEGACY
There are still openings for youngster ages 8-12 to
attend the Butlerʼs annual Summer Camp in July, held
at the museumʼs Trumbull facility in Howland. This year,
the camp will focus solely upon the visual arts. Camp
director for 2015 is Ryan Mistovich. For information
and registration forms, call 330.743.1107, ext 114.
A local businessman once referred to the Butler as
a “. . .poor man’s university”—his reason for being so
generous to the museum. The Butler provides a high
level of instruction and cultural enrichment for
everyone, no matter their level of education or status in
the community. This is what our founder, Joseph G.
Butler, Jr., envisioned when he gave this remarkable
institution to the people of our country, emblazoning
above the its front doors, Pro Bono Publico—for the
public good. Contact the Butler, 330.743.1107, ext.116
to learn more about establishing your Butler legacy.
CHILDREN'S CLASSES-YOUNGSTOWN-BUTLER
STAMP PRINTING
Students will make their own printing stamp using modeling clay
and clay tools. Designs will then be printed on a variety of papers.
Mary Pat George, art instructor
Wednesday-June 24
Room A Fee: $15
#015-Grades 1-2 10:00-11:30 a.m.
#016-Grades 3-4 1:30-3:00 p.m.
GIFT SHOP FUNDS PROGRAMS
Visit the Butlerʼs Museum Gift Shop soon and help to
support the museumʼs educational programs. From Art
T-Shirts to totes, mugs, toys, books, jewelry and more
—the Butler shop offers a great selection for birthday,
wedding, and gifts for every occasion. Butler Members
receive a discount on most purchases, and all revenues
directly fund the museumʼs free family activities. Call
Renée Sheakoski at 330.743.1107, ext. 127 or email
[email protected] for more shop information or to
become a Butler Museum Gift Shop volunteer.
ANIMAL ANIMATION
Using an iPad and an iPad app, design an animal or imaginary
creature and “bring it to life” as it walks from left to right across
your screen. (Class size is limited-please register early.)
Mary Pat George, art instructor
Wednesday-July 15
Room A Fee: $15
#017-Grades 3-5 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
LI’L PRINTERS
Come and explore the world of printmaking with your little one. We
will learn several printing techniques while learning new words like
mono-print, repetition, and texture. Make a print for yourself and
one to share!
Lisa Zitello, art instructor
Saturday-July 18
Room B Fee: $10
#018-Preschool/K (ages 3-6) w/adult partner 10:00-10:45 a.m.
BUTLER ART CLASSES OFFERED
Visit butlerart.com for a complete listing of art classes
that are being offered this summer! (A small sample is
seen, right). The Butler has a program of instruction for
all ages at both the Youngstown and Howland
locations. Other special classes for home schoolers,
scout troops, birthday parties and more are available at
the Butler. Call Mary Pat George 330.743.1107, ext 221
to register or for information.
THE BUTLER INSTITUTE OF AMERICAN ART • SUMMER/FALL NEWSLETTER • 2015
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Youngstown Area
Jewish Federation
Collections Café at the Butler is open
weekdays and on weekends for Butler events.
Call 330.743.9779 for café information.
Receipt of this publication by mail is a benefit of Butler membership.
HOURS:
The Butler Institute/Beecher Center/Butler North
Open 11 am to 4 pm Tuesday through Saturday; Sunday noon to 4 pm.
Closed Monday and major holidays.
The Butler Trumbull Branch is located at 9350 East Market Street in
Howland Township, Ohio. Open Wednesday through Sunday, 11 am to 4 pm.
TOURS, CLASSES & PROGRAMS:
Tours may be arranged by calling the Butler’s Education Department,
330.743.1107, ext. 115. For program information, including museum
outreach, call ext. 114. For art class information call 330.743.1107, ext. 221.
PARKING:
In Youngstown, limited free parking is available in the Butler’s private lot
located on the museum’s north side. Additional parking is available at a nominal cost in Youngstown State University lots.
In Howland, ample free parking is provided on the museum’s property.
MEMBERSHIP:
Butler membership offers a variety of beneﬁts including discounts on art
classes and museum shop purchases. (The Youngstown Foundation will add
5% to qualiﬁed contributions to the Butler if the check is made payable to the
Youngstown Foundation and is for a minimum of $100.) For membership
information call ext. 210. Butler Members receive this publication by US
Mail as a benefit of membership. Help the Butler and the environment by
becoming an email subscriber. You will receive all exhibition information
and museum invitations on your computer at home or at work! To become
an online member, email your request to info@butlerart. com.
ANNUAL PROJECT FOR SPECIAL NEEDS
The Butler’s Annual Giving campaign provides much needed funds for museum
projects. The Butler is grateful for the past donations of many generous
individuals. For information concerning this important fund raising effort, call ext. 210.
RENTAL OF BUTLER FACILITIES:
The Butler Institute of American Art’s exhibition sponsorship program includes the use of the museum for weddings, parties and other private events.
Call ext. 122 for information and guidelines for use of the Butler’s facilities.
UPCOMING
EVENTS!
To highlight itʼs fall exhibition of historic works by California Impressionists, the Butler will host a special Members Preview Party on
Saturday, October 3rd at the museum in Youngstown. (Butler
Members will be mailed an invitation to this event.) Inspired by the
paintings in the exhibition, which were drawn from the collection of
the Irvine Museum, this evening will include California wines,
gourmet hors dʼoeuvres, music and more! Save the date and plan to
attend this special fall evening event.
Sunday, November 22nd, the Butler will host its second annual
Holiday Open House in Youngstown. This free, family-friendly event
will kick off the Butlerʼs holiday season. Special Americana exhibits,
activities and entertainment are planned. Refreshments from
Collections Café, as well as new merchandise in the Butlerʼs
Museum Shops, will be featured. More information will be available
soon for this event sponsored by Stifel Nicolaus. (Butler Members
will receive an invitation to this event.)
Mark your calendar for the 45th American Holiday at the Butler.
The event begins with a Butler Members Preview Party December
4th. Public Sale Days follow on December 5th & 6th.
One of the most anticipated events of the season, the annual Butler
holiday show draws together some of the regionʼs ﬁnest artisans,
who offer works for sale in a variety of media; ceramics, jewelry, art
to wear, decorative items, food, paintings, prints and more! This
event helps to fund Butler free programs. The Butler is currently
accepting applications from crafters interested in participating in the
show. Contact Wayne Gruver [email protected],
330.743.1107, ext. 402 for information and/or an application.