BREAKING: Renowned artist Frank Wimberly has passed away at the age of 99, confirmed by Berry Campbell Gallery, his representing gallery. Wimberly, known for his unique “controlled accidents” in art, died earlier this month, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and emotional depth in his works.
Just last winter, Wimberly, then 98 years old, completed a striking collage titled “Untitled” (2025), which was prominently featured in his retrospective exhibition Frank Wimberley: Before More After Less at the Berry Campbell Gallery in Chelsea, New York. This exhibition showcased his prolific career, spanning from 1982 to 2025, and highlighted the evolution of his artistic expression.
Wimberly’s work combined textured acrylics with layered paper, creating visual narratives that captivated audiences. His wife, Juanita Wimberly, noted that this collage was “the first one to go” at the gallery, illustrating the immediate impact of his art. Christine Berry, co-director of the gallery, remarked, “I was always sort of floored at how his paintings were so sophisticated and strong, but delicate at the same time.”
Born in Pleasantville, New Jersey, in 1926, Wimberly’s passion for art blossomed early in life, influenced by his mother, a ceramicist and pianist. He later studied at Howard University, where he learned from notable figures like James Amos Porter and Lois Mailou Jones. Wimberly’s journey took him away from formal education after two years as he balanced family life and his artistic pursuits, often working nights at the United States Post Office.
His first solo exhibitions began in 1973, marking the start of a distinguished career that included showcases at esteemed venues such as the National Gallery of Art and Guild Hall. Wimberly was instrumental in the Abstract Expressionist and Black Arts Movements, contributing significantly to the arts community in New York City and Long Island.
A major highlight of his career came in 2022 when he was inducted into the Guild Hall Academy of Arts. His work was celebrated not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its rich emotional resonance, often likened to the improvisational spirit of jazz—a lifelong influence on his artistic process. Wimberly often drew parallels between painting and music, striving for spontaneity and emotional depth, inspired by friends like jazz legend Miles Davis.
In his final years, he remained vigorously creative, often waking in the night with visions for new artworks, continuing to experiment with materials and techniques until the end. His works, such as “Senegal” (1990), exemplified his innovative approach, merging various media to create textured landscapes that invite exploration.
Wimberly’s dedication to his craft and his ability to innovate throughout his life are a testament to his artistic spirit. His passing marks a significant loss to the art world, but his legacy continues to inspire artists and audiences alike. Gallery officials remind us that Wimberly’s journey embodies the essence of art as a lifelong pursuit, emphasizing that the greatest gift an artist can possess is the drive to create.
As the art community mourns his loss, the upcoming exhibition at the Parrish Art Museum next year will feature Wimberly’s work, ensuring that his contributions to the art world are celebrated and remembered.
Stay tuned for more updates on tributes and celebrations of Frank Wimberly’s remarkable life and career.
