Max D. Standley

Visionary artist, Max D. Standley (1942-2013), was born in Wichita, Kansas in 1942. He was an artist to the core of his being: for almost 40 years his prodigious talent allowed him to live and breathe art. He lived reclusively with his wife on a secluded 40 acres, deep in the forests of Arkansas. This lifestyle gave him the freedom to immerse himself in his oil painting, engraving, poetry and drawing — the result was intimate paintings that vibrate with his intensity. Standley’s work begins in the realm of realism, and develops with hints of biomorphic and magical imagery, showing a depth that continues to surprise, delight and move us.

“My work is a part I play in nature’s drama and is a form of self development,” said Standley. “Archetypical symbolism is an integral part of the process.” Standley felt that the symbols speak to others on a conscious and unconscious level, allowing them to connect to his vision of the world. Max Standley passed away September 3rd, 2013.

Learn More

Read Reality and the Creative Process, an essay by Max D. Standley

See pictures of Max D. Standley’s opening reception from October 2005

Read the article from the Gazette on Max D. Standley’s work