NATCHITOCHES – Artwork by Northwestern State University faculty Clyde Downs, Michael Yankowski and the late Dr. Bill Bryant will be on exhibit at the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum in Shreveport Nov. 10-Dec. 2 with a reception from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20.
Bryant was known for his watercolor paintings and had been a strong influence for Downs and Yankowski as he mentored them as young faculty. A native of Shreveport, he passed away in 2021 after a distinguished teaching career and as a productive artist. Often portraying scenes from New Mexico which he dearly loved, he was a painter, potter, sculptor and musician, establishing the “Back Porch Band” of Natchitoches. He influenced numerous students and fellow artists with his technique, style, and world view.
Downs, a former student of Bryant’s, was director of River Oaks Square Gallery in Alexandria. He then became a member of the NSU art faculty, serving for over 30 years. An exhibiting artist, he recently retired and continues to work in oil and acrylic paint. Influenced by Bryant, his good friend, Downs work reflects his interest in the Southwest where he traveled with students for summer art classes.
Yankowski was a graphic designer and medical photographer in Wisconsin and Qatar before joining the NSU faculty in 1987. He teaches photography and design and is a working sculptor. Having exhibited with galleries in Chicago and Houston, he is currently represented by Carol Robinson Gallery in New Orleans. He has participated in exhibitions throughout the U.S. and internationally. Yankowski is completing his final semester at NSU in December. Bryant was his mentor and friend.
Admission to the exhibition is free. Hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday. The museum is located at 3015 Greenwood Road, Shreveport. Information is available at sos.la.gov/lsem and at laexhibitmuseum.org.
