ArtWorks in the Community 2019 is the Walkers’ Gallery’s 21st annual exhibit by Texas State faculty, students, staff and alumni. This year's show, while widely diverse, has a unique congeniality – unlike many past Texas State exhibits which have challenged the viewing public.
A contributing factor to this unusual harmony may be the large number of artworks by the featured artist, alumnus, Johnny Villarreal. Abstract with gentle allusions to the subject matter, some of Villarreal’s acrylic paintings are inscribed with layers of cursive writing – palimpsests of possible conversations. His paintings, interspersed with cut card stencil portraits, create a rhythm of familiarity running through the exhibit. The refreshing unity of the exhibit is enhanced by an overall high quality of work and subtle similarity of palettes –greys, pinks and blues.
