Legacy Exhibit: George Hayes & Gene Bove
Wallkill River Center for the Arts (WRCA) annual Legacy Exhibit, on view February 21 through March 22, 2026 features two well-loved and dearly missed artists, George Hayes and Gene Bove.
George Hayes started painting with what was then the Wallkill River School in 2003, often arriving at plein air class on his motorcycle. “Besides being hella cool, George was a genuinely nice person,” enthused Shawn Dell Joyce, founding WRCA executive director.
Hayes was known to take new artists under his wing and freely share techniques. He often demonstrated perspective to newbies and was soon hired to demonstrate for the plein air series. It wasn’t long before he developed a following, and started teaching classes. George made himself invaluable in the office as well, and was soon on regular rotation as office staff.
“George was more than a friend to most of us,” continued Dell Joyce. “He was respectful and kind to all. He made us all better people, whether in the board meetings or out plein air painting.”
Gene Bove joined “Landscapes on Location” at their third outing in Pine Bush in 2001. His wife Marilyn, saw a write up in the paper and signed them both up. Both became invaluable to forming the fledgling Wallkill River School. Gene had a strong background in advertising and immediately became an asset designing printed matter and ads for the organization. Gene brought a hilarious sense of humor and deep love of painting to the group. He became a partner in the original LLC founded in 2004, then a founder of the nonprofit in 2008.
Bove was in high demand and the most popular teacher for many years. Dell Joyce remembers her friend and colleague fondly, “Gene greeted every situation with his humor and good nature. He kept us all in stitches and giggles while painting.”
OPENING RECEPTION
Saturday, February 21st, 3 – 5 pm
Please join us to view the works and celebrate these artists who were integrally involved with WRCA; light refreshments will be served.
The WRCA galleries and art reception are always free and open to the public.
Gallery hours: Friday – Sunday, 12 – 5 pm
