Join us on Sunday, August 18, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery. Ginny Young, daughter of renowned Kansas-born printmaker Carl Reling, will present a talk titled “Before Email There Was Vmail: WWII Through the Eyes of a KS Artist.” This event is part of Arts on the Prairie and is supported by the. Patterson Family Foundation and the Kansas Arts Commission, with help from the National Endowment for the Arts.
About Carl Reling
Early Life and Career
Carl Frederick Reling (1915-2001) grew up on a farm near Cawker City, Kansas. In the 1920s and early ’30s, Reling created art focused on the national parks in the American West. Despite his talent, his work is not well known today. This is due to his early death and the rise of modernism.
Service in WWII and Artistic Journey
During World War II, Reling served in the U.S. Army. While overseas, he sent V-mail (Victory mail) to his family. These letters often included drawings and cartoons. After the war, Reling worked for over 30 years at the Manhattan Mercury newspaper. He took art courses by mail from the Washington School of Art and earned a diploma in 1947.
Ginny Young’s Presentation
Ginny Young will talk about her father’s life and art. She will share stories about his realistic paintings. These paintings show both triumph and tragedy. This talk is a chance to learn about Carl Reling’s love for the American West.
Exhibition Highlights
The exhibition will feature many of Reling’s works, including:
- Drawings and Watercolors: Everyday life subjects and landscapes.
- Political War Cartoons and V-mail: Illustrated correspondence from WWII.
- Commercial Graphics: Logos, ads, and cartoons created for local businesses.
These works show the different styles and cultures that influenced Reling over his lifetime.
Event Details
Location:
Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery
401 North First Street, Lindsborg
Regular Gallery Hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Sunday: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Admission: Free (Donations appreciated)
For more information about Birger Sandzén, the Gallery, and this event, please call (785) 227-2220.
