Tuttle art exhibit to run through March 27 in Rehoboth

Wilmington University at Rehoboth Beach will host Nature and Nurture, an exhibit of original art by Alan B. Tuttle, through Friday, March 27. The community is invited to visit and enjoy the self-guided tour from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday and 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday.

As an exchange student in Madrid early in his career, Tuttle studied the works and techniques of the old masters, including Velasquez, El Greco and Goya. Through imitation, then exploration and experimentation, he developed his own distinct style.

Tuttle's perception of nature and society is the clear theme and inspiration for each of his works. He has a unique creative process, which he often begins by writing a few lines of prose or poetry, then using them as a word map from which to sketch a figurative outline.

With his signature approach to underpainting, a method of applying light and dark monochromatic layers, he is able to emphasize the interplay of values without color.

Tuttle conveys a compelling commentary on social conditions. If the observer can see what the artist saw through his mind's eye, "Then the piece is a success by the most important definition," he says.

Tuttle is a resident of southern Delaware and northern New York with painting and sculpting studios in both states. His award-winning work has been featured in many prominent national and international shows.

Tuttle is also the founder, underwriter and artist for the esteemed Domiciles Project, a public program engaging the community through art. Introduced nearly 10 years ago, this innovative project encourages responses to old doors with fragments of life painted on them. The project has been expanded to help inspire Delaware students to reinvent the spirit of both reading and writing.

For more information about the exhibit, or any of Wilmington University’s programs, call 302-227-6295 or email rehoboth@wilmu.edu.