May 13, 2019
Story by Joe Vinduska
Courtesy Photos submitted
The Shafer Art Gallery will host an opening reception for the Kansas Educators: In the Collection exhibit at 6 p.m. May 16 and will feature works from Birger Sandzen, Harry Krug and Mick Jilg. Gallery director remarks and artist talks will begin at 6:45. Refreshments will be served.
Shafer Art Gallery Director Dave Barnes said he conceptualized the idea from a desire to showcase artists who were also educators and realized quickly that the gallery’s permanent collection contained just what he needed to put on the show.
"Over the years the Shafer Gallery has acquired through significant donations, purchase and long-term loans an impressive collection of fine artwork,” he said. “Every now and then we need to unlock the closet and let folks see what is actually here. It is always enlightening and a very rewarding treat for the eyes."
Jilg, Krug and Sandzen spent a significant portion of their life teaching in various capacities.
Jilg started painting in the 1960s and spent most of his adult life teaching art for 30 years at Fort Hays State University. A legend in the world of printmaking, Professor Emeritus at Pittsburg State University Krug spent 38 years passing his knowledge on to young artists. Sandzén taught at Lindsborg for the majority of his career that spanned over 40 years and retired as a Professor Emeritus.
The exhibit will be open through June 14. Admission is always free. For more information, contact Shafer Art Gallery Director Dave Barnes at (620) 792-9342 or barnesd@bartonccc.edu.