A collection of works by a rural Trenton resident will continue the 2019-2020 exhibition schedule in the Dorris Rider Art Gallery at North Central Missouri College in Trenton. “FACES: Furry, Famous, and Familiar” by Dan Maxey will open on Tuesday, February 11 will be on display through mid-April.
The exhibit will feature a collection of nearly 50 black and white illustrations highlighting film stars, TV personalities, family, friends and “furry faces”. Much of Maxey’s interest in this subject matter was brought about by individuals desiring professionally-designed portraits of family as well as his collection of famous personalities.
“My attention to detail, with a bit of stylization, showcases my love for working with the balance of positive and negative space,” said Maxey. “This gives the viewer the opportunity to finish the picture as they see it!”
Maxey is a graduate of Trenton High School and Trenton Junior College and went on to graduate from Southwest Missouri State University (now Missouri State University) in Springfield with Bachelor’s Degrees in both Fine Arts and Secondary Education. Following graduation, Maxey worked at numerous creative agencies in the capacities of Designer, Illustrator, Art Director, and Senior Creative Director. This included working for over 15 years for a Fortune 500 Company in St. Louis, MO.
“I have always been interested in illustration,” Maxey continued. “I give credit to my high school art instructor, Janet Coy Way, for being a mentor and molding me into the artist I am today.”
Maxey returned to Trenton in 2012 and co-founded Black Rooster Creative, which is a company responsible for the design and painting of Barn Quilts that are now found in five states. In addition, he continues to design both custom and standard artworks as both a hobby and a profession. Since his return to Trenton, Maxey has also been actively involved in the newly formed Art’s Alive organization in Grundy County where he currently serves as President. His company was responsible for bringing the recent Missouri Bicentennial “Paint for a Cause” project to the area. He also serves as a guest critic and judge for numerous art shows and critiques, locally and throughout mid-Missouri.
“I’ve personally been a fan of Dan’s art for many years,” said Gallery Director Jim Norris. “His drawings are always expertly rendered, and they are instantly engaging to viewers. It’s a pleasure to finally get to share a large collection of his art with our audience.”
An opening reception will be held on Tuesday, February 11 from 5:00-7:00 pm in the gallery. Refreshments will be served and instrumental music performed by Brent Isom of St. Joseph. NCMC students and the public are invited to attend.
For more information, please contact Jim Norris at 357-6345, or by email at [email protected].
Regular hours at the Rider Art Gallery are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, as well as selected weekend and evening hours by appointment.
