An Evening With Professor Michael Farrell

Professor Farrell's lecture will cover the art and life of Gari Melchers. Melchers was the son of German-born, Detroit-based sculptor Julius Melchers. Melchers talent was recognized and encouraged, and he traveled to Germany to further his studies. At the beginning of the 20th century, 3 American artists shared equal fame: James Abbott McNeil Whistler, John Singer Sargent and Gari Melchers. Melchers' renown brought him back to Detroit where he had painted many important members of society. This illustrated lecture will examine Melchers' career, his art and in particular, the place of Willistead Manor's two portraits by this outstanding painter.