WEST BURLINGTON, Iowa - The Galleries at Southeastern Community College are proud to present “Artist Retrospect of Fifty Years,” an exhibition celebrating the life’s work of acclaimed painter David Garrison. Spanning five decades of artistic practice, the exhibition highlights Garrison’s mastery of pastel, oil and acrylic painting, as well as his influence as an educator and mentor.

A graduate of the American Academy of Art in Chicago and recipient of a Bachelor of Arts degree from Iowa Wesleyan College, Garrison has built a distinguished career defined by both artistic excellence and dedicated teaching. His work has been recognized nationally and internationally, including being listed in Who’s Who in American Art since 1986 and achieving signature membership in the Pastel Society of America. He is also affiliated with the National Society of Mural Painters, the American Artist Professional League of New York City, Oil Painters of America, and the Société de Pastellistes de France.

Garrison lived and worked in France for three years, where he taught visiting American artists, exhibited in Paris, and received the prestigious Master of Light status. His teaching and artistic philosophy—centered on strong drawing, atmosphere, light and expressive brushwork—have shaped generations of artists across the United States and abroad. His work and instruction were also featured in the French publication Pratique des Arts.

Known for paintings that convey mood, spontaneity and the quiet beauty of everyday life, Garrison’s art invites viewers to engage emotionally with light, color and atmosphere. As one art consultant observed, “Garrison’s paintings are exciting. They vibrate; they have a lyrical quality; they are alive.”

This retrospective exhibition offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience the breadth and evolution of Garrison’s artistic vision while honoring his lasting contributions to the visual arts community.

The exhibition will be on view at the Harry and Virginia Murray Art Gallery at Southeastern Community College on March 5, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.