[Editor’s Note: This is the text of a review of Serigraphix 1 gallery that appeared in the July 1975 issue of Decor Magazine.]
Kansas City literally abounds in art of all kinds and every description — but surely one of the most interesting and exciting shops in town is Serigraphix 1 at 814 Westport Road. Serigraphix 1 is artists-owned and operated and is a shop of serigraphs, original hand silk-screened art prints (signed and in limited editions) and imported hand silk-screened fabrics.
The silk-screen process is of ancient oriental ancestry, originating from the necessity to tie together, with tiny silk strands, paper stencils too fine in detail to stand alone when used. Hence, the silk-screen was created.
The silk-screen process is versatile and can be applied to virtually any surface.
Most of the art prints at Serigraphix 1 have been done by the two owners, Barry A. Biddle and Larry D. McMillan, but a few of the unusual prints displayed have been executed by other artists, some local and some from as far away as the east and west coasts.
Larry is a native of Kansas and a graduate of the University of Kansas with a B.F.A. and was previously an artist for Hallmark.
Born in Pennsylvania, Barry graduated from Graceland College [now Graceland University] in Iowa with a B.A. and was an art educator in Pennsylvania and Missouri public schools. Both have exhibited in juried shows throughout the Midwest and their serigraphs are now displayed in galleries from coast to coast. The limited sampling of prints shown here is testimony to their imaginations and creativity!
Serigraphix 1 has recently added imported MARIMEKKO fabrics to their constantly expanding line. MARIMEKKO fabrics, imported from Finland, are all hand silk-screened. Patterned on a giant scale, the colors are vibrant, contemporary and exciting. Priced at $9.50 per yard, they are perfect for banners, wall hangings, large stretched canvases – or for bedspreads, draperies, table runners – and they make dramatic cushions and throw pillows!
Serigraphix 1 wares also include framing kits and methods in metal, chrome, lucite, glass and plastic in just about every style imaginable.
As is the case with most successful businesses, Serigraphix 1 has outgrown their present location and will be opening in October at 207 Westport Road. In the meantime, visit with Larry and Barry at the old location or catch them at the Plaza Art Show – a fun place to go!
