Local artist succumbs to cancer
We're very sorry to report the death last week of Art Messer, a Madison Park artist known both for his cheerful, colorful paintings and for his outsize personality. He was a regular fixture on the neighborhood scene for many decades, once having operated a frame shop/art gallery in what is now the "black hole of Madison Park" building on Madison. Messer died after a year-long battle with leukemia.
Messer, who described his art as "Fauvist", was intimately involved in organizing the Madison Park Art Walk, in which his works were always featured---and over the years he often engineered impromptu installations of his art on the walls of various Madison Park businesses (sometimes in empty storefronts).
Although he himself would probably have agreed that he was "a difficult personality," many who knew him could testify to his gift of friendship and his generosity of spirit. He will definitely be missed.
Rest in Peace Arthur. Thank you for adding flavor to our neighborhood
ReplyDeleteJane Powers
A memorial will be held Dec 6 at the Red Onion.
ReplyDeleteJane Powers
Our memories of Art will live on through his paintings that we own. Such a talent, such a nice man. RIP.
ReplyDeleteArt was a great person to my deceased brother Scott Mckee,hope their hanging together in peace.
ReplyDeleteArt created a beautiful painting of my house with my children out front when they were young. He did it when my husband was gone, so we could give it to him for Father's day. I will never forget it. Thanks Art!!
ReplyDeleteI just caught the opening of Art Messer's Farewell Art Show this evening. I happened upon the art walk (I saw the signs earlier, but it didn't register) this evening as I stopped at the ATM. I was feeling a bit down this evening. The art walk was a nice diversion, but when I walked into the Wendy Amdal Salon and saw Art's work, my evening turned around. What a great night. Thanks Art.
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