The Border Artists
Bob Willis of Las Cruces, N.M. celebrates living with intensely creative color awareness and imagery. In 1997, he was given a second chance at life with a gift of a heart. You will see his journey from near death in paintings such as “The Long Ride,” completed prior to his heart transplant. In “Shadows & Remembrance,” Willis captures the human spirit poised between memories of what was known versus the shadow world of the unknown. In “Going Home,” he dreams of putting the pain and uncertainty of numerous surgeries behind him and becoming whole again. Finally, in “Three Horses & More,” joy and playfulness return with the vibrancy of new life. With a body of work that seem to jump from the canvas, Willis offers the opportunity to browse, linger, and soak in the dynamic movement of strong color and design. In many paintings, Willis utilizes the imagery of animals to illustrate the spirit, stamina, and strength of life. His images with implied relationships between line, color, and subject are the mainstays of the soft-spoken artist’s expression in vibrant acrylic. Willis has exhibited internationally. His vitae include three shows at the Chamizal National Gallery in El Paso, TX, and two shows at the Museo de Arte in Juarez, Mexico. He also has been included in the Fifth Annual New Mexico Designer Craftsman Exhibition, the Kansas Designer Craftsman Exhibition, and the 11th Midwest Biennial. He also has exhibited in the Adobe Patio Gallery, Glenn Cutter Gallery, JME Studios and Fine Art Gallery, and White Raven Gallery.
In addition to painting, Willis has done academic work in the visual arts that included both extensive research and studio work. He has received a BFA and MA in painting, and a MFA in design and jewelry. His research concentrated on foundry processes at the National Sculpture Center, as well as studies in African-American art. He currently teaches art at Mayfield High School in Las Cruces, N.M.