Artists honor teacher
Students of the late Reuben Gambrell keep his creative spirit alive.
By Rachel Haynie

Artwork by Susalee Lamb

Rising artists who had been students of the late Reuben Gambrell didn't want to stop painting after their mentor passed away last year. They wanted to continue growing as artists and find a way to honor Gambrell.

By founding their own studio and opening a gallery next door to it, the former students have done both. Recently, the quintet comprised of J. Walker Clarke, Susalee Lamb, Regina Moody, Nini Ward, and Charlene Wells held their first exhibition and sale. Based on the number of patrons leaving the Carlisle Street gallery that evening laden with purchased works of art, they have succeeded.

Although this was the first show for Verizon, the gallery's name, it was not the first time these artists have exhibited work together. Before their mentor died, a special exhibition of Gambrell's work was shown at Gallery 80808 alongside works of some of his last students. His creative spirit lives on in these students as they paint side by side, critique each other's efforts, and become even better friends.

Although any of the five can go paint at the studio anytime, Wednesdays are set aside expressly for working together. They are also willing to set their brushes down long enough to open the gallery side to anyone interested in purchasing art.

Artwork by Walker Clarke

All five are continuing with the mediums they explored under the tutelage of Gambrell. They feel the encouraging spirit of Gambrell as they work. Walls and easels at 3031 Carlisle Street bear not only new works of the quintet, but vintage works created by Gambrell over a career that spanned six decades. Those paintings are also available for sale.

In addition to filling canvases with evocative images, the art group is throwing its support behind a gala event being planned for early next year at which Gambrell's works will be shown. It will be a tribute to this beloved teacher.

Susalee Lamb