Our Artists
BIOGRAPHY
Vern Gray
In Memory of artist Vern Gray
Vern was known for carving decorative walking sticks, but also drew and painted. He started in Open Studio as someone new to drawing and painting, and quickly realized his attraction to portrait work. Gray did a mentorship with local artist Robert Canaga in 2015 and acquired more skills in drawing. He is also inspired by his Native American heritage and the natural landscape in Oregon.
Gray’s portrait work is simple yet expressive, possessing a sweet and innocent charm, with colorful backgrounds that draw attention to the figure while creating a fun and interesting backdrop. His landscape and nature paintings are far more detailed than his portrait work, playing with perspective, color, and movement.
His other areas of interest included knitting hats, carving walking sticks, cooking, and spending time with his wife and family. Gray started taking classes at the OSLP Arts & Culture Program in the winter of 2013.
Gallery Representation
The Lincoln Gallery, Eugene, OR, Winter 2013 – Present
Professional Mentorship
Drawing with Mentor Robert Canaga, 2015
Commissions
Handmade Walking Stick commissioned by Donna Crispin
Group Exhibitions
Group Exhibition, Park Street Café, Eugene, OR, 2016
Group Exhibition, The Beanery on 5th St, Eugene, OR, 2016
Group Exhibition, Claim 52 Brewing, The Abbey, Springfield, OR, 2016
Group Exhibition, Full City Coffee on High St., Eugene, OR, 2015
Group Exhibition, Whirled Pies, Eugene, OR, 2015
Group Exhibition, The Arts Center, Corvallis, OR, 2015
Group Exhibition, The Jazz Station, Eugene, OR, 2015
Group Exhibition, Urban Therapeutic, Eugene, OR, 2015
Group Exhibition, The Beanery on Hilyard, Eugene, OR, 2015
Group Exhibition, Eugene Springfield Art Project, Eugene OR, 2014
Group Exhibition, Eugene Downtown Library, Eugene, OR, 2014
Group Exhibition, Eugene Piano Co., Eugene, OR, 2014
Studio Experience
OSLP Arts & Culture Program, Eugene, OR, Winter 2013 – Present
Open Studio, Fabric Arts, Culinary Arts (Class Assistant)
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