A part of the permanent collection at the Deke Slayton Memorial Space and Bike Museum in Sparta, Wisconsin, Rex’s “Spokes to the Stars” poster combines timeless symbols, heroic forms and strong colors to honor one of the original Mercury astronauts and celebrate a classic collection of bicycles. A victorian bicycle, an elegant starship, a bit of stardust and a harvest moon serve as the visuals in this romantic evolution of discovery — to boldly go where no bike has gone before.
Founders' Memorial Concert
A celebration of soulmates in Music — Rex’s image was an angelic take on the Art Deco Park Ridge Civic Orchestra logo. Honoring the late Edgar and Nancy Muenzer, co-founders of the PRCOrchestra in 1994, this concert featured former Chicago Symphony Orchestra violinist David Taylor as guest soloist. Held the week before Valentine’s Day, this was a once-in-a-lifetime concert included some of the Muenzer’s favorite pieces, including the “Balcony Scene” from Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet, Barry’s theme from Out of Africa, Dvorak’s “Romance, Op. 11,” and “Lara’s Theme” by Jarre from Doctor Zhivago, among others.
Kaikoura, New Zealand Earthquake Relief
The seaside town of Kaikoura on New Zealand’s east coast has recently been hit by two major earthquakes. On November 14, 2016, access to the town of Kaikoura was cut off by a stunning 7.8-magnitude quake that devastated the North Canterbury region of the South Island. On February 1, 2017, Kaikoura suffered a second hit from a strong 5.1-magnitude quake near the site of the 2016 November quake.
To support “Kaikoura Earthquake Relief,” I’ve designed a yes, dramatic, poster to help raise funds and other resources needed to rebuild and restore the historic Mayfair Theatre, an Art Deco-era masterpiece damaged by this disaster. I am working with the Kaikoura Theatre’s Executive Committee which oversees this community owned and operated treasure. To help with the rebuilding of the Mayfair Theatre, please email mayfairkk@mayfairkaikoura.co.nz for information on how to donate.
“Unforgettable” Holiday Concert
Created for the Park Ridge Civic Orchestra 2016 holiday concert, these wonderful Art Deco Reindeers dashing upwards to a radiant Christmas Star make for a “Unforgettable” poster. It was a night of fun to celebrate the splendor of the season with family and friends at this concert, featuring timeless music, angelic voices, and more.
Park Ridge: Rediscovering a Major American Arts Colony
The Park Ridge Public Library was proud to host an insightful lecture by Karen Larsen of the Kalo Foundation on the remarkable artistic history of “The Park Ridge Arts Colony” featuring dynamic posters by resident artist Rex Parker.
One of Rex’s favorite poster, the truly majestic Art Deco “Radio Flyer Pavilion” was based on Alfonso Iannelli’s exhibit designed for — A Century of Progress: 1933 Chicago World’s Fair.
Karen’s presentation was a celebration of the innovative works of — Clara Barck Welles, Kalo, Grant Wood, Alfonso Iannelli, The Village Press, John Alden Carpenter, Frederick Goudy and the world-class status of “The Park Ridge Arts Colony”.