Frances Wessells
Collection
Artspace Member Spotlight Exhibition
Flynn-Chapman Gallery
May 27 - June 18, 2022
Various media
About the show
Artspace Gallery is pleased to honor Artspace Artist Member Emeritus Frances Wessells by choreographing an exhibition and sale of her personal collection of art. The (suggestion: This) collection of a lifetime includes sculptural work created by Wessell’s, signed & numbered screen prints created by her late husband, John Bailey and many other works of theirs and their collection of works by local artists.
An example of a life well lived, Frances Wessells, is an enduring feature of Richmond’s dance history, spent over fifty years as a dance educator and choreographer at both the University of Richmond and VCU. She is Associate Professor Emerita and was one of the founders of the VCU Department of Dance. She has received numerous accolades over the span of her career and was awarded for her significant long-term contributions to the Richmond Art Community.
Also a long time artist member and supporter of Artspace, John Bailey is best remembered for his mural of Marilyn Monroe on Connecticut Avenue NW, in DC, which was recently restored. The original painting for that mural, and several signed and numbered screen prints will be available for purchase, among many other items.
Over the years, Wessells has served as muse, model and maker. The Frances Wessells Collection is varied; mediums includes one of a kind: drawings, paintings, glass, ceramic, wood, mosaic, stone, sculptures, prints, etc.
Now at age 102, Wessells is selling her beloved home in Crozier, VA. Although downsizing is painful, she wishes to share her unique objects d’art with the community that she has loved so well — with collectors who will cherish each unique piece as much as she has.
Artspace is providing the venue for this timeless collection of work. Come and participate, and give Frances the joy of knowing the well-loved items in her collection will continue to be treasured by new owners in the future.
The exhibition will be open to the public Saturday, May 28, 2022 and run through June 18, 2022 during regular gallery hours. An opening reception will take place Friday, May 27, 2022 from 6:00 - 9:00 PM. The gallery is free to the public, reservations are not necessary.
Learn More about John Bailey's mural:
Frances Wessells, 102 years of age, at her home. Photo by Ed Holten.
Frances Wessells, "Female Figure," alabasster
John Bailey, "Marilyn," screen print
John Bailey, "Judy," screen print