My friend and mentor, Gene Holtan, died on November 30, he was 86. When we would get together, our talks gravitated quickly to art. He may have rambled at times but always brought a unique and deep perception to the subject. His work, from the illustrations he was famous for (my god, could that man draw) to the late abstractions was no less deep, influential and meaningful. Gene added much to art and awareness, not just for me but for art and vision at large. He is missed.
According to his obituary in the Santa Cruz Sentinel, his last words were: “Follow the instructions to the door. When you get to the door, throw the instructions away.” He lived that rule, the very essence of art.
Gene Holtan
Jan. 28, 1930 – Nov. 30, 2016
Santa Cruz
Jan. 28, 1930 – Nov. 30, 2016
Santa Cruz