Culture
Work of OU’s Professor Emeritus Donald Roberts Up For Auction
By: Emily Votaw
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Through Thursday, September 27, the artwork of beloved Ohio University Professor Emeritus of art Donald Roberts will be up for auction through online marketplace EVERYTHING BUT THE HOUSE. The auction includes work by Roberts’ wife, June Carver Branham.
Roberts was influential in the creation and direction of Ohio University’s School of Art + Design, where he served as a professor of art from 1953 to 1991. He passed away in March 2015 at the age of 91.
Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Roberts rose to fame throughout his career as a noted lithographer, sculptor, painter, and teacher. Roberts’ teaching philosophy rotated around the core concept that creating original art was essential to true learning, rather than trying to replicate other artist’s work. During his time in the community, Roberts was highly involved with community art organizations, especially the Dairy Barn Arts Center. He also worked closely with the Kennedy Museum of Art, whose permanent collection was very influenced by Roberts. “It’s phenomenal to see his work from the ’50s up until quite recently, but it’s interesting to see how his style has kept such a mid-century modern feel,” said Jayme Dougal of EBTH, who worked on the sale. “It’s been a pleasure to see and experience what Donald and his wife were doing with their art and what they spent their lives doing.”
A portion of proceeds from the auction will be given to the Kennedy Museum of Art. Check out the auction right here.