“The Eugene Landry project highlights the work and life of one unique person, yet the process behind it has brought to life an era of our whole community. The research brought stories back to our people and the curated exhibition ensures these are passed down to future generations. Gene’s determination to create combined with the contrast between his traditional native background and his western artistic training is emblematic of a difficult, but critical point in our journey to reclaim and recreate our own tribal identity.”

–Jesse Downs, Shoalwater Bay Tribal member, Tokeland, WA

“As a family member I am Proud that Gene’s work is being recognized. As a friend I am Honored that his life is being remembered. As a human being I am impressed that other People care enough to look at his images and feel his point of view. A point of view that was unique, and worthy of being present. I hope the world enjoys his work as much as I do”.

– Gabriel Landry, cousin/friend/care provider, Tacoma

“Gene was able to transcend his physical challenges when he was painting or drawing. Art offered Gene a portal into a creative world that gave him freedom from his daily life. He left us with many fine works of art and an inspiration to all of us.”

– William Muller, artist, Colorado

“I knew Gene as a kid in the 70’s when he lived in the cabin on the Georgetown Indian Reservation (as it was called back then). Irene Shale gave Thlwaltmish language classes for my cousins/ siblings and I at his cabin; Gene was also there. He was a soft spoken, humorous, intelligent, talented, wonderful person, it was a blessing to know him. This art exhibit brings his existence to life.”

– Leatta Anderson, Shoalwater Bay Tribal member, Tokeland, WA

“Seeing Gene’s paintings brought me back to a time in my childhood when I used to hang out at his house, playing up in the attic, watching him paint, listening to music on a pair of headphones for the first time. I always thought Gene was a pretty amazing person…still holds true today”

– Sabina Harris, Shoalwater Bay Tribal member, Tokeland, WA

“Just read Portrait of Gene and this among the most beautiful books I’ve ever seen (and from my library work I see a LOT of books!) Landry’s story and Altruda’s rediscovery of the work is a magnificent tale in itself but connecting it to Shoalwater Bay Tribal history is nothing short of brilliant. So moving and inspirational and such a treasure for generations to come and time immemorial. I celebrated my birthday last year by seeing the exhibit and I’m back again this year to see it again. Congratulations and thank you so very much!”

– Devon Damonte, Olympia, WA

“This fascinating collection tells, with love, the story of a small tight-knit Native community with a beautiful mid-century palette and haunting style. Framed by a needlessly tragic life story, there are lessons to be taken to heart and learned from.”

– Troy Meyers, Seattle, WA

“Eugene’s work is a melding of realism, expressive yet controlled brushwork and personal images which create a strong sense of place and time. His balanced use of color, playing beautiful neutrals against brights, adds a more contemporary sense to the traditional still life and portrait paintings. In addition, the research into the stories of the people behind the portraits made them all the more meaningful, creating a sense of knowing who they were.
The accompanying catalog tells the fascinating story the of Eugene’s life, his grit in the face of much adversity and the Shoalwater Tribal members who were, and who continue to be, touched by Eugene’s life, art, and vision. I would highly recommend seeing this exhibit and hopefully in the future it can be made available to an even wider audience.”

– Gail Bauman, Seattle

“My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed and savored the show of Eugene Landry’s artwork. It was interesting to learn about his life and associates through artifacts in addition to the art. The show was well curated. We are now fans of Mr. Landry!”

– Lauri and Pete Serafin, Seattle

“What a compelling, multi-layered experience, to see and feel Landry’s story unfold as his art evolves. A thousand small details create a nuanced conversation about culture and individuality, disability and transcendence, racism and reconciliation. I came away inspired, humbled, and wide awake to the sheer valiance it takes to create.”

– Joni Rodgers, author, New York Times Bestselling Author, Westport WA

“Also found neighbor Judith’s “Portrait of Gene” book very moving, so well done, went back to see the exhibit again, such a treasure.”

– Devon, Olympia