BEHIND THE MASK

SPIVA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, Joplin, MO.

Exhibition June 21-August 9

Behind the Mask challenges the audience to examine how we navigate the complex relationship between our public selves and our private identities. Whether literal, metaphorical, or psychological, the “mask” serves as a symbol of the roles we adopt, the facades we construct, and the truth we conceal.

Join us to explore the theme of masks—whether through symbolism, abstract representations, or direct depictions. This exhibit invites viewers to consider the contrast between their outward appearances and inner emotions.

Reception: June 20, 5:30-7:30 PM

In my collage piece, Worn for Your Protection, duality takes shape in a half-mask composition. One side is controlled, minimal, and orderly—while the other side erupts into a jumble of layered, fragmented images. These scattered pieces reflect the unfiltered clutter of thoughts that exist beneath the surface, yet often remain unseen.

Portrait of the Artist is a collage on a cradled wood panel, inviting the viewer to explore both its front and back. The front features an abstract face, composed of layered, hand-painted papers and found objects — a reflection of the creative spirit. Tucked within the back of the panel is a hidden assemblage: memorabilia from art museums, my personal business card, and a collection of mysterious, seemingly random objects. Together, they hint at the layered education, experiences, and quiet influences that have shaped my journey as an artist.

Art Exhibition at UMKC

I’ve been invited to exhibit the 2020 Covid assemblage, at UMKC (University of Missouri in Kansas City) in the advocacy gallery in Cherry Hall for the remainder of the semester. In addition to the assemblage I will also be exhibiting some of my more traditional work.

An artists reception is planned for Friday, October 18, 4:30 - 6:30 pm. The event is open to the public

5020 Cherry Street, Advocacy Gallery - 2nd floor, UMKC, Kansas City, MO.

RAM annual Invitational: INCLUSION

I’m happy to announce TRANSCENDING will be included in the Fort Smith RAM (Regional Art Museum) Annual Invitational: Inclusion Show. The annual invitational is a national competitive exhibition. My painting, TRANSCENDENCE celebrates the joy we experience when we open our hearts to the gift of diversity.

Transcendence, acrylic and metallic leaf on canvas by Ruth Lawlor

It is such an honor to exhibit my work alongside artists I admire here at the beautiful Fort Smith Regional Art Museum.

NABOR Awards Celebration 2023

The Northwest Arkansas Board of Realtors will host the 2023 Annual Awards Celebration at Crystal Bridges Museum of Art, April 1, 2023. Two of my paintings will be available at the art auction.

TRANSPOSING MELODY NO. 225

36 inches x 48 inches, acrylic and gold leaf on canvas

Available at the art auction fundraiser benefiting Special Olympics, April 1,2 023

A transposed melody is shifting to another key while maintaining the same tone structure.  

I wanted to communicate something about the timelessness of enduring friendship and how true friendships move and adapt yet retain their original uniqueness, beauty and harmony.


ETHEREAL DISCLOSURES NO. 210

36 x 36 inches, acrylic and metallic leaf on canvas

The definition of ethereal is,"extremely delicate and light in a way that seems too perfect for this world”. This painting is an invitation to consider the transporting to a celestial place of light and beauty.

Available at thee art auction fundraiser benefiting Special Olympics April 1, 2023

I'm excited to announce I will be teaching a workshop at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art!

photo by Christy Murry

It’s an honor to be invited to teach a workshop at Crystal Bridges! The workshop will teach participants the fundamentals of developing visual journaling as a creative practice. Classes meet weekly for eight weeks, Monday 1-3 pm, January 23 - March 13. For enrollment information contact Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.