A retrospective of Carlisle Cooper’s 40 year unrelenting fostering of art is being displayed at the VC Media Art Gallery.

Cooper’s testimonial to his commitment to figure- expressionism and teaching excellence has influenced many at Ventura College in his 40 years of instructing.

Bob Moskowitz, Art department chairman and longtime friend, talked of his unique style and influence.

“Carlisle is arguably the dean of art in Ventura,” said Moskowitz. “His unique sense of color and design deal with a lot of important subject matter.”

Subject matters dealt with the hardships of warfare to cultural differences that make us the human beings we are.

Cooper put his work in simple terms.

“These represent years of hard work,” said Cooper. “I still enjoy art, and still enjoy teaching very much, and that joy is what keeps me motivated.”

The themes of his storytelling have spoken magnitudes to the years of his work.

Former teacher from Ventura College and colleague Gerd Koch elaborated.

“He certainly is a master of expressionistic-story,” said Koch.

 Not waiting for the students, faculty and art fans, Cooper actively talked to the onlookers eager for their questions.

Kate Martin, VC’s art gallery director, related about Cooper and his tenure at Ventura College, and what his students understand about him.

“Carlisle is a kind, sweet soul and wonderful human being,” said Martin. “He’s a master and the students know it.”

Carlisle Cooper’s gallery is on display at the New Media Gallery at Ventura College from Nov. 11 till Dec. 9, Monday –Friday, 12-4p.m.

Carlisle Cooper exhibit at the Ventura College Art Gallery. (Photo by Chad Jones)

(Photos by Chad Jones)

(Photos by Chad Jones)

(Photos by Chad Jones)

(Photos by Chad Jones)

Mr. Cooper’s ‘World War II Veteran” painting. (Photos by Chad Jones)