Helmut Barnett: Surfaces

Helmut Barnett: Surfaces . April 11-May 3, 2026

Opening reception on Saturday, April 11 from 6 to 8pm

Working  in the mediums of painting, collage, and drawing- and often a mix of the three- Helmut Barnett has refined a visual language over the past 50 years that playfully activates the viewer's imagination. This show exemplifies the range of Barnett's talent, featuring geometric and organic forms on large canvases as well as more intimate collages incorporating found material.

Born in Stuttgart, Germany in 1946, Barnett moved to Abilene, Kansas in 1957. After finishing high school in Chicago and four years service in the Air Force, he moved to Austin, Texas and graduated from the University of Texas with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1974.

preview show

Established in 1980 and located in a 120 year old historic house, the Wally Workman Gallery specializes in emerging and collected talent. Known for encouraging their artists' professional and creative growth, the gallery has advanced local artists onto the national stage for decades. It is the combination of these long-standing relationships and the potential of new partnerships that make the gallery's program dynamic and accessible. The gallery has two stories of exhibition space where one can view the 50+ artists currently represented, including the contemporary talents of Sarah Ferguson, Joyce Howell and Will Klemm as well as the figurative work of Patrick Puckett and America Martin. 

Parking is available in the lot behind the gallery, accessed from the alley off Blanco and Harthan Streets. There you will find two dedicated spots as well as other parking options. Unrestricted street parking is available on Blanco St. and parking is allowed after 7pm on Harthan St.