John Edward Welch

“I cannot Accept This Wonderful Gift…”

Opening Reception: Friday September 5th, 6:00 – 9:00 PM

John Edward Welch (1918-2011) was a self-taught sign painter and artist, and longtime resident of Newport News, Virginia. His mixed-media paintings combine African-American history, biographical portrayals of cultural figures, and social commentary. Working in obscurity until 2010, Mr. Welch garnered the art world’s attention at age 93 when his artwork was exhibited at the Ricco/Maresca Gallery in New York City.

This exhibition was co-curated by Thomas Moore, who is an artist, and Senior Curator of Photography at the Mariners’ Museum in Newport News, Virginia.

Special thanks to Michelle Erhardt, Anna Holloway, Thomas Moore and Elaine Viel for loaning artwork for this exhibition.

Learn more: History, Art and Experience Collide | Mark St. John Erickson, Daily Press