NW Missouri Times

Bob Walkenhorst, an alumnus of Northwest Missouri State University and a notable figure in the music industry as a songwriter and lead singer of a Kansas City-based rock band, is set to perform at his alma mater. His performance will coincide with an art exhibit showcasing his paintings.

The exhibition will run from October 30 through November 17 at the Olive DeLuce Art Gallery located in the Olive DeLuce Fine Arts Building. Walkenhorst's artwork, which reflects themes from his songs, includes scenes depicting farmland, woods, and people from the Midwest as well as his hometown. Some pieces will be available for purchase.

Walkenhorst will also perform musically on Monday, November 4 at 7 p.m. in the Charles Johnson Theater within the Fine Arts Building. Both events are open to the public without charge.

Dr. Debra Brown, associate chair of Northwest’s Department of Fine and Performing Arts and an associate professor of music, commented on Walkenhorst's diverse artistic career: “It's great for our students to see an alumnus that has lived their adult life as an artist – and then in multiple ways, too, between publishing poetry and music, performing and painting,” she said. “He’s a well-rounded artist.”

Graduating from Northwest in 1979 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, Walkenhorst pursued art professionally while gaining international recognition as the lead singer of The Rainmakers rock band. His work spans visual arts and music; he has published books containing his paintings along with song lyrics and short stories.

Reflecting on his journey, Walkenhorst stated: “My perspective is rather unique, I think. Both visual art and music have served me well... Most importantly, I am still in awe of how the creative process works and art’s ability to articulate and communicate so much about life.”

The gallery is accessible from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesdays; 1 to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays; and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays.