“The Beauty of Realism” by Sheldon Downes

Sheldon Downes, Ed.D., Retired Professor Emeritus from the Department of Addictions and Rehabilitation Studies, College of Allied Health Sciences, presents a 2014 Fall Semester exhibit as part of the Art as Avocation series. Entitled, “The Beauty of Realism” Downes showcases a collection of oil paintings that capture the beauty of landscapes and scenes from nature. The exhibit is on display in the Laupus Library 4th floor gallery beginning October 21 and will run through December 12, 2014.

About the Artist

“Creating artwork has been one of the most relaxing and rewarding activities that I have ever done. When I paint I’m in another world. I had a very slow start with the exception of drawing in elementary school. I never had classes in water color or oil painting. Somewhere around the age of 10 I added art work to my other hobbies. What got me interested in art was frequently watching a neighbor sitting in his back yard and putting the final touches on his oil paintings he had started in the field. He showed me how to mix paints on his pallet, what brushes to use, and most importantly the use of spatulas. He made these spatulas from old corset stays that he filed down with various shapes, and placed them in old paint brush staffs. I later discovered that my grandmother has some of the stays which I was able to create my own spatulas. I still use these spatulas today, 69 years later. I also studied the art work of the great masters from art museums and art books.

The rest of my life has been quite dull. I’ve completed eight years of track and cross country, three academic degrees, two years on active duty with the Marine Corps and 30 more years in the active reserve. I am also a member of the ECU Distinguished Military Society.”