John L. Lewis, Leader of the United Mine Workers in the 1930s, David Slader

Portland, Oregon-based painter, David Slader selected Louder When the Wind Regrets, a portrait of John L. Lewis, leader of the United Mine Workers in the 1930s, because Lewis projects determination. Lewis, says David Slader, needed determination, and he had it in spades!

David Slader writes humorously that he is an exponent of the Vilde Chaya School of Digestive Expressionism. Members are committed to the principle that a painting should express whatever the artist had for dinner the previous evening. Vilda Chayism originated in Tukum, Latvia early in the last century. Also known as the "Starvationists," the early Vilde Chayists produced many vivid expressions of sprouted potatoes and stale bread. Tragically, the narrow-minded critics of the day panned their work, calling them "nothing but a pack of useless vilda chayas." Sadly, few examples from this seminal "potato period" remain because they were painted on burlap sacks that tended to be reused. Long after the early Vilda Chayists had been forgotten, David Slader revived the movement after an especially fine brisket and onion dinner. To see more of David’s art, click VILDE CHAYA.

Louder When the Wind Regrets, David Slader, 36 x 48” oil crayon on panel, 2012

David Slader will donate 50% from the sale of any one painting to Taos Art Museum at FECHIN HOUSE. Thank you, David!

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