WOODBURY — An exhibition of works by the late Roxbury artist Gertrude Barrer (1921-1997) highlights the diversity of her world view, her mastery of color and form from her beginnings as a leading New York City Modernist through her life in Roxbury, and long collaboration with her husband and fellow artist Frank Russell.

“Gertrude Barrer: Dreaming in Color” will be on view at Clapp & Tuttle Gallery, within Middle Quarter Mall at 742 Main Street South in Woodbury, October 17-31.

An opening reception will feature a talk about the artist by Marc Chabot, noted area art expert and collector, who knew her well. 

Gertrude Barrer was born in 1921 in New York City. She studied with Will Barnet at Art Students League from 1939-1942/43, and later at the University of Iowa. In 1946 she exhibited with the Indian Space painters in the exhibition “8 and a Totem Pole” at Gallerie Neuf.

She has been increasingly credited by art historians as having been a leading contributor to American Modern Art. In reviewing her first solo show at the gallery in 1947, Clement Greenberg praised Ms Barrer as “one of the most promising painters in the country.”

During the late 40s Ms Barrer served as art editor of Iconograph magazine, one of the earliest art-run magazines. Her work was included in the 1950 Whitney Bienniel, and Samuel Kootz’s “New Talent” exhibition in 1951.

She and husband Frank Russell moved to Roxbury in 1959, and collaborated on such projects as ceramics, murals, illustrations, sculpture and prints.

They were also deeply involved in the Connecticut art world.

The reception will run from 4 to 7 pm on Saturday, October 17, and refreshments will be served. Mr Chabot is expected to speak at 5.

Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday, 9:30 am-5:30 pm; and Saturday, 9:30 am-4:30 pm. Private viewings are available by appointment.

Call 203-263-2207 for additional information.