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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Artist Ric Gendron loses home in Elmer City fire; Marmot gallery hosts art sale to help

A house fire in Elmer City on Tuesday night destroyed the home of acclaimed artist Ric Gendron, whose vivid paintings of musicians, animals and American Indians grace public spaces in downtown Spokane and have been exhibited in museums and galleries across the country.

According to posts on social media, Gendron lost paintings, art supplies, personal belongings, guitars and an extensive collection of vintage vinyl records in the blaze, which also destroyed three other homes and damaged two others.

Marmot Art Space will have two dozen Gendron paintings for sale Friday at the gallery, 1202 W. Summit Parkway in Kendall Yards, in conjunction with First Friday. Gallery owner Marshall Peterson said he hopes the money raised will help Gendron get back on his feet. The paintings range in size from 8-by-10-inches to 60-by-48 inches. Those interested in purchasing before Friday can call Peterson at (509) 270-5804.

Gendron, a dual enrolled member of the Umatilla and Colville tribes, created four large murals featuring musicians such of John Lennon that are displayed on the Hotel Ruby on Lincoln Street in downtown. His exhibit “Rattlebone” toured the West – including the Museum of Contemporary Native Arts in Santa Fe, the Missoula Art Museum, Museum of Northwest Art in LaConner – in 2011, and became a book in 2012.

In a Facebook post, Gendron expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support he’s received.

“Things happen for a reason I believe,” he wrote. “Most of you know I am a solitary person so it’s a little embarrassing to be drawing this much attention. I am going to be OK. … Let’s all take a deep breath and enjoy life.”