The Wichita Art Museum’s ongoing “Past and Present” series (on display in the Devore Gallery (at the Wichita Art Museum through May 28th ) is made to celebrate and recognize the city’s artistic heritage and its echoes in the modern art scene. Featuring Lester Raymer and Clark Britton, the exhibit expertly showcases the vision and experience of these iconic Kansas artists, not just as individuals, but as an evolving consciousness embracing the full breadth of what it means to be creative.
Raymer (1907-1991) once said “The test of a great work of art is its immediate impact on the viewer” and as one navigates the manifold treasures of this exhibition, these words ring loud and clear. One of the most obvious and notable curatorial threads is the eclectic and prolific output of both artists; a body of work including painting, drawing, printmaking, paper-cutting, fiber art, sculptures, toys, and more. Born of curiosity and heartfelt sincerity, this collection is seen as the inevitable conclusion of each artist’s lifelong dedication to their craft.
There is a song of love in works like Raymer’s Clown Climbing Rope and “Sister” the Cat, each hand-crafted as part of a household Christmas tradition; gifts for his wife Ramona. Britton (born 1930) expresses a similar sentiment in Dog Pulling Caravan, but as an homage to his late wife Pauline. Via toy dog and stagecoach, the work is delightfully reminiscent of Elijah’s charioted ascent into heaven, as Britton chooses joy and wonder over despair and loss in remembrance of his beloved.
As a counterpoint, the exhibit takes the viewer into darker waters with works like Raymer’s Young Hunter and Britton’s Puppet Master with Man in a Box. Cynical yet optimistically cautionary, each piece functions like a visual riddle, posing more questions than answers. Importantly, these enigmatic works reflect and inspire deep ruminations on the nature of violence and control.
In Kansas, Raymer and Britton’s artistic reach is expansive and canonical, even when viewed through the lens of art history at large, but why should they be of interest to those who aren’t invested in art or simply don’t have the time to pursue it?
Because the spirit and passion that drives them to create is something all of us strive toward: a greater understanding of ourselves and our relationships with others; a love and zeal for life and the bliss contained therein. This is an art of totality, pain and pleasure, and everything in between.
This macrocosmic viewpoint is at the heart of the staggering artistic heights apparent when observing and resting in their work. One feels the presence of genius when confronted with mastery and Raymer and Britton are, without a doubt, masters.