The Visual Language of Dennis Akin

A diverse collection of Dennis’s works presented by his wife, marjorie Akin

September 18- October 24, 2026

On this Page: images from the exhibit, reflections from the curator, links to a video of Dennis on Youtube and his obituary.

From the curator’s Desk: Reflections on the retrospective

Assembling a retrospective exhibition for an artist who has passed away is always a different experience than preparing for our usual shows. Instead of working with the artist directly I meet with their loved ones to choose artwork and discuss all the logistical needs that go along with planning exhibits.

As soon as we determined that Dennis’s Retrospective would be filling this exhibit slot, Marjorie warmly welcomed me into her home. Though I had never met Dennis, she introduced me to him through his artwork and her stories revealing a dedicated professor, life-long artist with meticulous focus and commitment to his art.

I also got to meet Dennis through the perspectives of Cathy Stone, formerly CALC’s Gallery Director, then Executive Director and the recently retired Pat Craig of Pat Craig Studios and Custom Framing. As we looked over his work, and discussed the monumental task before us, they too, shared stories about Dennis. Listening to these three women talk about their memories, his personality and quirks shone through. It was an incredible experience which informed the way I hung the show.

This show would not have been possible without their help. I am so grateful to Marjorie for sharing her late husband’s work, to Pat Craig for her incredible assistance with framing and display and to Cathy for lending her expertise and experience hanging shows for Dennis as well as supporting Marjorie through the difficult process of sorting through his life’s work.

One of the unexpected joys of this show is the incredible range of work not only in date of creation, but media as well. Along with displaying his drawings, paintings, sculptures and stained glass, Marjorie made the intimate choice to show some of his sketches and studies for his finished works. These provide an incredible glimpse into his interests and studio practice. Sleeved and backed by Pat Craig for display, the compulsion to flip through them is irresistible.

It is Marjorie’s hope that many of these pieces find good homes where they will be appreciated for many years to come. All sales from the show are being split evenly between CALC and the Residential Hospice Carlisle.

The opening was an incredible burst of energy! Thank you to the many community members that showed up for this exhibit. The upper gallery was full of people there to remember Dennis and view his works. I hope you are also able to visit the gallery and enjoy the show. If you do, and especially if you knew Dennis, be sure to leave a memory or comment about the show in the visitors book near the entrance of the show.

- Abria Donato

You can watch Dennis talking about his work, including some pieces featured in this show, on Youtube circa 2016. Click here to Watch.