Emeritus Professor of Art Allen Jensen to open new gallery show Aug. 5 in Edison

Allen Jensen was a member of the faculty of the Department of Art at Western Washington University from 1965 to his retirement in 1997.

Jensen, now approaching 81, is exhibiting his work at Smith & Vallee in Edison. The exhibition, "Bob's Boats" is on display Aug. 5- 30 with an opening reception Saturday, Aug. 6 from 5-8 p.m. The exhibition will feature a series of collages, sculptures, and the full size ‘H.M.S. Jollybob’(His Mortal Ship JollyBob). The various drafts of form evident within these collages, which appear to be studies, illustrate Jensen’s deep exploration and preparation for his own death. His ‘seize the day’ attitude has propelled this immense body of work, which has existential depth and emotional commitment to a practice that few can claim.

As a junior art major at the University of Washington in 1957, Jensen was juried into the then prestigious Northwest Annual held at the Seattle Art Museum, along with Alden Mason and Boyer Gonzales. Since then Jensen has been in numerous exhibitions, one man shows at museums including Museum of Northwest Art, the Whatcom Museum; multiple gallery affiliations – Linda Farris, Dick White, Attica, Lucia Douglas, and Smith & Vallee.

Jensen was also active in the State 1% for the Arts Program, winning three commissions. The remaining piece titled ‘Stroke’ is located on the Old Aqua Theatre site at Green Lake. His studio practice remains a seven day a week affair, and has has committed himself to do his best work after the age of eighty.

Previews for Jensen's show can be found at www.smithandvallee.com. Smith & Vallee Gallery at 5742 Gilkey Ave. in Edison is open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.