A Way of Life: The Art of Joseph “JB” Allen

On View: May 31 to August 28, 2024

A Way of Life highlights 58 years of painting from local artist Joseph “JB” Allen. Paintings of nature, vechiles, and loving couples speak to larger themes of wonder, adventure, and experiencing life with a caring partner. His adventures certainly have perils: getting your cart stuck on train tracks, being chased by a bull, or hanging onto the edge of a cliff. But, these life experiences are also full of joy: riding bikes through the country side, sitting on the beach, or dancing with your spouse.

Allen started making art as a child and continued to paint occasionally as an adult. But, in the 1980s he stopped, feeling he wasn’t good at it anymore. However, since retiring in 2013 (he worked at Centra Southside Hospital from age 17 to 71) he began to make art again. He now averages about a painting a week and works part-time at Hampden-Sydney College. Allen’s imaginative art making shows that stories and memories are essential to a way of life.

Joseph “JB” Allen
It’s so good to see you again, 2022
Mixed media

20.75 x 28.75
Courtesy of the artist