The Alden B. Dow Home and Studio in Midland, Michigan, will launch a comprehensive exhibition next month honoring the life and distinguished career of acclaimed graphic designer and illustrator Tim Lewis, who had deep roots in mid-Michigan. The exhibition, titled "A New Vision: The Graphic Art of Tim Lewis," will open with a public reception from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, September 4, and will remain accessible to visitors during regular business hours through December 31 at the facility located at 315 Post Street.
Tim Lewis, a Midland native born in 1937 who passed away in 2017, was profoundly influenced by a city characterized by arts, science, and creativity—a vision brought to life through the inspiring architectural work of Alden B. Dow, F.A.I.A., Michigan's Architect Laureate. This retrospective exhibition showcases five decades of Lewis's remarkable work as a commercial artist and illustrator, featuring original artwork and prints, many of which will be available for purchase by visitors.
Lewis developed a distinctive signature style that was simultaneously boldly colorful yet refined, whimsical yet elegant, and both complex and textural while remaining accessible to broad audiences. This unique artistic approach made him a highly sought-after illustrator for more than thirty years throughout his professional career. His diverse portfolio encompassed commercial illustrations for leading U.S. magazines, poster designs for Barbra Streisand's television specials, album covers for renowned artists including Peter, Paul and Mary, Gordon Lightfoot, and Chuck Berry, as well as his charming hand-painted Christmas cards that continue to enchant and delight viewers.
Craig McDonald, executive director of the Alden B. Dow Home and Studio, characterized Lewis's artistic work as fundamentally joyous in nature. "Recognized as a giant in New York City's graphic art world, his work allows us to understand complex ideas and issues through playfulness and beauty," McDonald stated. He noted that Lewis himself believed that "Just being decorative is not enough. Ideally, a deeper involvement should take place." This artistic philosophy and innate desire to create throughout his entire life mirrors Alden Dow's own vision to create architectural structures that transcended simple shelters.
Dow famously articulated his design philosophy by stating, "A building should reflect a person, inspire creativeness, have beauty, and awaken the senses. Real housing is not a place to hibernate; it is a place for individuals to grow." This shared commitment to meaningful, transformative art and design creates a natural connection between the exhibition's subject and its venue.
The Alden B. Dow Home and Studio maintains regular operating hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and offers guided tours exclusively at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Admission to "A New Vision: The Graphic Art of Tim Lewis" is completely free and open to the public during business hours, though children must be at least 8 years old to attend, and photography is strictly prohibited throughout the exhibition space.
Visitors to Midland can enhance their cultural experience by exploring additional local attractions, including the renowned Dow Gardens and the impressive canopy walk at Whiting Forest. The downtown area offers excellent shopping and dining opportunities, while sports enthusiasts can catch a Great Lakes Loons baseball game at Dow Diamond, providing a well-rounded visit to this culturally rich Michigan destination.
