Gallery 31 North will reopen for one final show Sunday November 8, 2009 with a reception from 1 – 6PM, and continues for a limited time on Saturday and Sunday November 14, 15 & 21, 22, 2:00 – 4:00PM. The gallery is located on the ground floor of the Historic Hunt House on the corner of Rt. 31 and Hunt Place, Glen Gardner, NJ; approximately 5 miles north of Clinton. Telephone 908 537 7044.

Diagnosed with renal cancer a little over a year ago, Wally set out to document, through his art, a journey not of his choosing, but more personal and painful than he could have imagined. Through painting, drawing, assemblages, and a video-taped performance piece, we are shown how it felt to be “erased from one’s own existence.”

In this no-holds-barred exhibition Wally allows us a glimpse into a world that many of us have experienced, cancer, chemotherapy, and drugs; but do not have the ability or emotional fortitude to express in such a way. Wally Barnett lived his art and in this last year, he became his art. To best put this show in perspective are Wally’s own words: “And I do this because? Perhaps it is the instability that has been prominent in my life, uncomfortable situations, uninvited people, and medical pain. Or I’m just being consciously cruel, dishing out to the observer a taste of my dreaded experiences. It does get a response either way and isn’t that how we measure the success of art?”

“The Last Show” also marks the closing of Wally’s beloved Gallery 31 North in Glen Gardner, NJ. Opened in 2002 with his partner, Andy Dalpe, Wally succeeded in creating both a venue for local talented artists as well as a quality exhibition space “between the outer fringes of New York and Philadelphia.” Wally took great pride and pleasure in presenting the work of a large and diverse group of artists at Gallery 31 North. He gave many emerging artists their first exhibition opportunities, and frequently brought artists from neighboring areas into Hunterdon County. His support and encouragement were significant for many of them. Wally was an active supporter of the Hunterdon Art Museum as well as the Arts Community of Easton.

But Wally Barnette is too large a talent and has had too big an impact on too many people to ever be erased from our hearts, our minds or our lives. And so now it is up to his peers and protégés to interpret and fulfill his final dream. It is presented raw, unfinished but with humility and reverence towards a dear friend and mentor.

www.gallery31north.com

Announcement submitted by Will Hübscher
The Art of Will Hübscher
www.willhubscher.com

When coming to the gallery, please remember there is no parking on Rt 31, limited parking at the gallery and on Hunt Place. The park around the corner is the best bet. PLEASE car pool if at all possible.