Celebrate the life and artistry of Gail Vogels in this retrospective exhibition

Hyatt Cottage in Legacy Park January 23 - February 28, 2026 Gallery hours: 1-5pm • Thu-Sat Opening Reception: Fri, Jan. 23 • 6:30-9pm Although she became a nationally and internationally recognized artist, it was in Decatur that Gail Vogels realized her lifelong dream of becoming a professional artist. And it was in the details of daily life, here and abroad, such as children playing in a public pool, people commuting to work, a child’s birthday party, a late winter snowfall, that she found inspiration for her work. It was, she wrote, in the act “of painting my immediate world,” that she “discovered clues and unfolded truths” about life. Gail Vogels was a celebrated member of the Decatur artistic community until her passing in 2024. This retrospective exhibition celebrates her life and work and invites the viewer to find beauty and meaning in the “magic of the everyday”. It is coordinated by her husband, David Ray, and longtime friend and curator, Mario Petrirena. Join us for an opening reception on Friday, Jan. 23rd between 6:30 and 9pm. Celebrate Gail’s legacy with light refreshments and joyful community. The evening will also be the first Open Studios event of 2026. Meet the eight artists working out of the Hyatt Cottage studios and tour their spaces to learn more about their works and creative journeys. Sign up to be a gallery sitter! Help us keep local art experiences free to the public by volunteering using the link in our bio or visiting decaturartsalliance.org/volunteer