About The Art

Russell Maddick is an established abstract painter known for his vibrant and rhythmic fusions of organic and architectural inspired imagery. His tactile, densely layered paintings and works on paper have been exhibited in numerous solo and group shows for over thirty years, and his works are represented in museum and corporate collections throughout the U.S. He is a Professor Emeritus from the Department of Art, Youngstown State University, where he graduated with a major in Fine Art. He received his MFA from the The Ohio State University. Maddick has been the recipient of numerous educational and professional awards. He lives and works in Pennsylvania and Florida.

During the past 15 years Russell Maddick has lived in both rural and tropical environments. This experience has continued to impact his perception in developing the form and content of his painting. There has been a strong footprint of energy in the work that relates to the changing climates, both subtle and extreme. The abstract landscapes are layers of color and shape that represent the give and take of change.

Dr. Louis Zona, Executive Director says, “Russell Maddick is clearly one of Ohio’s unique talents. The imagery that he creates fills his canvases with original plant and animal life. Few artists possess the talent to invent on such a scale. The Butler is pleased and honored to present this extraordinary work.”

Over the years, construction has played a prominent role in making Maddick’s work. Also, he has used bird imagery as subject matter in a variety of ways. The recent small, constructed works emerged during the Covid health crisis. This time period, with its restrictions and loss of human life, inspired a shift in process. He began using the symbolic bird image as a centerpiece, in contrast to the iconic heart shape.

CATEGORIES: Exhibition

DATE: May 4, 2025 - June 29, 2025

LOCATION: Giffuni Gallery

RECEPTION: May 4th, 2025 1:00pm—3:00pm