Dr. Eugene Grigsby: at 89, a life celebrated

TEMPE, Ariz. – Dr. Eugene Grigsby, former faculty member in the Herberger College School of Art, celebrates his 89th birthday by releasing 89 pieces of his original work and editions, many of which have never been seen, for sale to the public. The pieces premiere at a special ASU reception on Wednesday, Oct. 31, 7-9 p.m. at Heddenart Gallery in Scottsdale.

Dr. Grigsby served as faculty within the Herberger College School of Art from 1966 to 1988. His artwork and contributions to African American art have been recognized by royalty and dignitaries worldwide.

“Eugene Grigsby is an outstanding visual artist who, for many years, has been in the forefront of African America art…Grigsby’s work is important in the history of African American art and is highly collectable,” says Samella Lewis, internationally known pioneer in African American art.

Dr. Grigsby received the 2007 Artistic Award from the Congressional Black Caucus in Washington, D.C. Other awards include the National Gallery of Art Medallion of Merit, National Art Education Association Art Educator of the Year and the Arizona Art Education Association Art Advocacy Award.

“Dr. Grigsby, at 89 years young is still energized by creating art and making contributions to multicultural scholarship. He has taught generations of artists and art educators and his work has enriched communities throughout the world,” says Bernard Young, former colleague of Dr. Grigsby and professor of art education in the Herberger College School of Art. “Doc’s works are definitely worth seeing for historical and inspirational reasons.”

ASU alumni, faculty, staff and students are invited to attend the premiere reception. Heddenart Gallery is located at 7134 E. Main Street in Scottsdale. His exhibition and sale runs Nov. 1-4.

For more information and to RSVP for the event by Oct. 24, call (480) 272-7180 or e-mail Christie@Heddenart.com.

Founded in 1964, The Katherine K. Herberger College of the Arts at Arizona State University comprises four nationally ranked academic units: School of Music, School of Art, Department of Dance and School of Theatre and Film, plus the Arts, Media and Engineering Program, and ASU Art Museum. Nearly 2,600 students attend the college, which has 170 faculty and 150 staff. Since 2004, 25 National Merit Scholars and 13 National Hispanic Scholars have chosen the Herberger College as their place of study. To learn more about the college, visit herbergercollege.asu.edu.

Media Contact:
Laura Toussaint 
480.965.8796
laura.toussaint@asu.edu