"Wild Bill and me"
Bill would let Ruchell pick from the treasure trove of all sorts of vivid and useful bounty.
I first started representing Ruchell Alexander last year. I saw his artwork someplace, I think on Craig's list. I know can you believe it Craig's list. I like his work and it is very unique. We started talking on the phone every once in a while and became friends. As we talked about art, life, and other things, he mentioned living at the "Magic Tortoise Commune" in New Mexico and his neighbor the artist Bill Gersh. Ruchell as a child would wander over to Bills garage and look opened eyed at all the cool and interesting things held within. Bill made a deal with young Ruchell, that if he would bring a drawing at his next visit, Bill would let Ruchell pick from the treasure trove of all sorts of vivid and useful bounty. The first was a battery powered record player. After hearing this I was filled with excitement over an idea for an art show for Ruchell. A series of large paintings depicting each of the wondrous treasures Bill would trade for art.
Ruchell and I are now working on the 5-year plan to bring "Wild Bill and me" art series and exhibits to fruition. Our basic plan is for Ruchell to paint large paintings in remembrance of Bill Gersh. Once we have the series we can start showing at major art fairs, gallerys, and museums. It is exciting to be working on something long-term but it is hard not to want things to happen right away. I know and believe slow and steady is best for successful art shows and exhibits.
-John C. Kuchera