What's Happening?
Artist Gladys Nilsson, known for her vibrant and whimsical style, is preparing for a major retrospective titled 'Gleefully Askew' at the Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento. The exhibition, which opens on July 19, will feature over 100 works spanning Nilsson's
60-year career, including watercolors, acrylic paintings, collages, and drawings. Nilsson, a prominent figure in the Chicago Imagists movement, rose to fame in the late 1960s as part of the Hairy Who group. Her work is characterized by brightly colored, stylized figures set in dynamic, often chaotic scenes. The retrospective will later travel to the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art in Wisconsin.
Why It's Important?
This retrospective is significant as it offers a comprehensive look at Nilsson's contributions to the art world, particularly her role in the Chicago Imagists movement. Her work, which blends humor and everyday observations, has influenced generations of artists. The exhibition not only celebrates Nilsson's artistic achievements but also highlights the enduring appeal of her unique style. For art enthusiasts and scholars, the retrospective provides an opportunity to explore the evolution of Nilsson's work and its impact on contemporary art.
What's Next?
Following its debut at the Crocker Art Museum, the 'Gleefully Askew' exhibition will travel to the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, allowing a wider audience to engage with Nilsson's work. This traveling exhibition may spark renewed interest in the Chicago Imagists and inspire further scholarly research and public appreciation of this influential art movement.













