Self-taught artist Frank Habbas, 91, of Washington, is having an encore career moment.
After a successful commercial art career, the artist is now having his second solo exhibit, this time at The Hen’s Nest in Washington, Conn.
In addition to his most recent work which tends to be more abstract, the exhibition will showcase more of his earlier pieces, reflective of his background as a comp illustrator.
“My earlier work is more narrative and relatable. I think viewers find it more accessible and that’s really the goal,” Habbas said via a news release.
The exhibition, which has been running at The Hen’s Nest Gallery since May 1, will continue through June 2,.
Habbas began his artistic career at the School of Visual Arts and Cooper Union in Manhattan. Initially, Habbas focused on illustration and graphic design, where he achieved commercial success creating storyboards and designing print advertising from his studio in Tudor City. His client list included Reader’s Digest, Parade Magazine, The International Herald Tribune, BBD&O, and Simon & Schuster, among others. Soon afterward, he turned exclusively to painting.
With a particular focus on the human form, Habbas has produced a sizable body of work int raditional oil painting. His work has attracted a broad spectrum of clients from publishers and institutions to private collectors.
Throughout his professional life, Habbas continued to paint.
“Sharing my work has opened up a lot of interesting conversations,” he said in the release. “I realize now that I want to share it as much as I can while I’m still here.”
The Hen’s Nest Gallery is at 2 Green Hill Road, Washington, Conn. For information, call 860-619-0091 or email art@thehensnestgallery.com
