ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Rick Bartow's Dark Themes and Resilient Spirit at Timothy Hawkinson Gallery

exhibition · 2026-05-30

A new exhibition at the Timothy Hawkinson Gallery highlights the profound themes and enduring spirit of Rick Bartow (1946–2016). An artist with formal training and a member of the Wiyot Tribe, Bartow created his works on the Oregon coast. He drew inspiration from his own life, cultural interactions, global myths, and stories of indigenous transformation, delving into his complex identity as well as tribal and personal traumas. A Vietnam veteran, he faced PTSD, alongside various health and addiction challenges. For him, art served as a vital means of healing. The exhibition underscores the ongoing struggle to achieve balance, illustrating that this journey is relentless.

Key facts

  • Rick Bartow lived from 1946 to 2016.
  • He was a professionally trained artist.
  • He lived and worked on the Oregon coast.
  • He was a member of the Wiyot Tribe.
  • He was a Vietnam veteran with PTSD.
  • Art was essential for his healing.
  • The exhibition is at Timothy Hawkinson Gallery.
  • The exhibition focuses on dark themes and resilient spirit.

Entities

Artists

  • Rick Bartow

Institutions

  • Timothy Hawkinson Gallery

Locations

  • Oregon coast

Sources