Artist Bio
Sally Bowring is a seasoned painter and dedicated art educator with decades of experience in the field. Originally hailing from New York City, she relocated to Richmond in 1980, where she quickly became an influential figure in the local art community.
Throughout her career, Bowring has taught at various universities, mentoring emerging artists and fostering creativity. She has lectured for the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, juried numerous exhibitions and curated shows that showcase diverse artistic voices. Her involvement extends to several boards, including the Art and Architecture Board, 1708 Gallery, and the VCCA Artist Board, demonstrating a deep commitment to advancing the arts.
Bowring has exhibited work locally, nationally, and internationally, establishing a broad and respected presence in the art world. She is currently represented by Quirk Gallery in Richmond and Blue Print Gallery in Dallas, Texas, and was represented by Reynolds Gallery from 1990 to 2023.
With a rich history of artistic engagement and a passion for advocacy, Bowring continues to inspire both students and peers alike.
2024
ARTIST BIOGRAPHY
Artist Bio
Artist/advocate -
Professional highlights include: Chair of the Public Art Commission for the City of Richmond, Director of 1708 Gallery, Administrative Director, VCU's Painting and Printmaking Department and 37 years of teaching at VCU and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
Recipient of the Virginia Museum of Fine Art Professional Fellowship and the Theresa Pollak Visual Arts Awards 2003-2004. She has received (2017- 2000) 5 Fellowships to the VCCA. Represented by Reynolds Gallery, in Richmond, VA,Blue Print Gallery, Dallas, TX, Art Registry, Washington, DC/ Colorado, Les Yeux du Monde, Charlottesville, VA. Her artwork has been exhibited extensively nationally and internationally. Recently Bowring’s work is in Doha, Qatar – in the Art and Embassy Program.Selected solo shows include (2020) Blue Print Gallery, Dallas,TX, (2019) Reynolds Gallery, Richmond, VA(2017) Visual Arts Center, Portsmouth, VA(2016) Reynolds Gallery, (2015) Port Ouvet Atlelier, Paris, France,(2012) Warm Springs Gallery, Charlottesville, VA (2009, 2008), Deborah Davis Gallery, Hudson, NY (2007) Bundy Museum, Waitsfield, VT (2007). Selected Group shows: The Big Screen, VCU, Richmond, VA (2017), "Off the Cuff", Reynolds Gallery, Boston, MA, (2016) Washington & Lee University (2010) Mid-Atlantic Biennial (2010) George Mason University (2009), Reynolds Gallery, Richmond, VA(2009), Callen McJunkin Gallery, Charleston, W.VA (2009)
A native New Yorker – received her frist degree from Fashion Institute of technology in textiles, received her BA from Goddard Colllege and her MFA from VCU in 1983. Bowring teaches painting at Virginia Commonwealth University and the Virgina Museum Studio School presently the Intermin Director of Administration for the Painting and Printmaking Department - soon to retire end of June. She is an art advocate an active member of 1708 Gallery during the 80's and 90's now an emeritus members and on the Advisory Board of Studio 2 3 - Past Director of the 1% For Art for the City of Richmond and then Commisisioner, then Chair of the Public Art Commission.