Harcum Gallery exhibit to feature portraits of women and horses

Wilmington College’s Harcum Gallery will feature a winter exhibit by artistic storyteller David W. Groff, titled “Heads and Tails: A Portrait Collection of Women and Horses,” from Jan. 23 through March 7.

An opening reception honoring the artist is planned for Jan. 23, from 6 to 8 p.m. The public is invited and refreshments will be served. Normal gallery hours are weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and by special appointment arranged by Curator Hal Shunk, emeritus professor of art.

Groff spoke about his eclectic exhibit and how his creative process transpires.

“Each painting I begin starts differently. Whether it's the color ground I use or the materials I paint and draw with, the challenge of creating a space with a balance of beautiful abstract and realistic elements is always the end game for me,” he said. “I try to see things as a painter who is keenly aware of shape, value, edges and texture. I also like to imagine a little backstory in the work. I often just make it up as I go. Through painting, storytelling is where I often find the greatest satisfaction.”

Born in Mansfield, Ohio, Groff spent his childhood growing up in a friendly neighborhood comprised of farm kids, inviting woodsy landscapes and open skies. He spent much of his time exploring rural surroundings with local friends but also loved being involved with a variety of creative hobbies. Somehow, he always knew he would be an artist.
 
During his high school years, he became more focused on making art and was awarded several honors for various art shows and competitions. Upon graduation, Groff took his talents to the Columbus College of Art and Design in Columbus. After freelancing as an illustrator for most of his senior year for ad agencies and magazines, he went to work as a staff illustrator for Wannamaker Advertising Arts in Kettering.

Fast forward 30-plus years and a satisfying freelance illustration career developed that included many nationally recognized clients like Disney Co., The NFL, The Cartoon Network, Fox Sports, Wendy's, Astra Zeneca Pharmaceuticals, Penguin Books and many others.

Groff decided to pursue his true passion for painting, and his eye for beauty encouraged a shift in the direction of his style of painting. With his creamy color palette, he creates beautiful and timeless pieces that take the viewer on a journey where one can feel inserted into the setting of his paintings. His work has been exhibited in shows and galleries throughout the country and is collected by discerning collectors from across the United States.

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