SAAC is proud to present the exhibition “Lines & Layers: The Art of Gary Bachers & Christopher Bachers” at an opening reception on Saturday, July 27 from 6:00-7:30pm. This unique father-son duo, both artists from Texas, will be featured together for the first time ever in this special exhibition from July 29 – September 5 in the Merkle and Price Galleries.
Gary Bachers, a former medical doctor and accomplished artist, suffered a massive stroke at age 38, leaving him with right-sided paralysis and global expressive aphasia, which prevented him from speaking or writing. Despite this, he found a new form of expression through art, using his left hand to create intricate and detailed works with colored pencils. His art became his “language” and a way to communicate with the world. Gary’s art features themes of the full moon, seasonal changes, botanical mandalas, and children, which represent the predictable and cyclical nature of life. He won numerous awards and has been featured in exhibitions and documentaries.
Gary’s son and the oldest of three siblings, Christopher Bachers grew up surrounded by his father’s art and was exposed to the art world from a young age. Christopher pursued a career in English and American literature, but began painting as a hobby during his graduate studies. He has developed his own unique style, combining vivid colors and abstract lines to create enigmatic compositions that explore themes of communication and self-expression. Christopher has won several awards for his art and has participated in various exhibitions, including the same regional show where his father started his career.
Gary Bachers passed away in August of 2023, but his wife Gabrielle and their son Christopher wanted to carry on with this exhibition. “People always say we’re a creative family. Not only my dad and I, but my mother, brother, and sister are all artists in their own areas. Looking back, it’s clear that we were all inspired by Dad. We lived alongside his daily art practice, watching his compositions and second career steadily develop over the years. It’s a small example of how art can make meaning and transform lives,” said Christopher.
The South Arkansas Arts Center is located at 110 East Fifth Street, El Dorado, Arkansas. The galleries are free and open to the public 9am to 5pm Monday through Friday.
The reception will be held in conjunction with Paragould, Arkansas artist Mandy Maxwell Mooneyham and her exhibition “Chree Journeys” on Saturday, July 27 from 6:00-7:30pm.
Gary’s Facebook Page link