In 1953, a young student discovered his passion for painting in a Houghton College studio art class, one of the only ones offered before the art program was officially established. This artist, Ben Frank Moss III, went on to become a distinguished artist, a successful professor at two institutions, and eventually, the department chair at Dartmouth College after pursuing his desire to create and later teach art.
This weekend, Houghton College and the Art Department will have the honor of hosting Ben Frank Moss III for an evening reception and artist talk on October 7. This event is the first show in the new annual Ben Frank Moss III Exhibition series, and will feature paintings from over a 30-year span of Moss’s impressive career as an artist and educator. Moss has maintained a close relationship with Houghton over the years and has continually supported the college. Alicia Taylor-Austin, director of the Ortlip Gallery exhibits and professor of art, recognized Moss and his dedication to Houghton. She said, “His commitment to the field and ongoing contribution to our institution has made it possible to provide financial means for continued growth and development of the students and faculty in the Art Department.”
Ben Frank Moss III entered his sophomore year before realizing a desire to pursue art as his primary focus. He took the advice of his professor at the time, Aimee E. Ortlip, to transfer to a school that offered a full art degree. After transferring to Whitworth College and earning his Bachelor’s degree, Moss went on to earn a Masters in Fine Art (MFA), at Boston University. He began his teaching career at the University of Iowa, and later moved to Dartmouth College, where he continued to teach and serve as chair of the art department.
According to professor of art, Ted Murphy, each year the department will exhibit an artist recommended by Ben Frank Moss III. They will begin the series with Moss’ paintings this year and feature his drawings next year.
“Moss works to articulate a unique, visual vocabulary that depicts his relationship to the world around him,” said Taylor-Austin. “From abstract dreamscapes to formal interpretations based on careful observation of the landscape, he has refined a style of painting that places him among the most admired painters of his generation.”
According to the Houghton website, the gallery will open to the public and all members of the Houghton Campus community from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on October 7 for the event. Visitors are encouraged to tour the exhibit before the Artist Talk with Moss at 6:00 p.m. in the Recital Hall. The Artist Talk will include an introduction to Moss, recognitions and special honors, a summary of his artistic process and work, and also a time for questions from the audience. A reception with refreshments will be held in the Center for the Arts Atrium following the talk. More information about the reception can be found on the Art Department webpage.