Transcendental Slacker, a solo exhibition featuring the work of UA faculty member William A. LawLer, opens in The University of Alabama Gallery on October 2. The show’s opening reception is scheduled for First Friday, October 2, 2026, from 5-7 p.m.
William A. LawLer is a Birmingham-based visual artist and professor. His practice is concerned with experimentation, the alchemy of paint, and the passing of time. Through unique processes, his paintings are brought to life over lengthy periods of time. Rich surfaces are built up using traditional and nontraditional methods, tools, and materials. A process of creation and destruction allows him the opportunity to explore the unknown tensions and boundaries within painting and the context of art history. This manner of working creates a visually engaging object touching on the familiar and the unfamiliar.
Lawler received his BFA from Athens State University, his Post-Baccalaureate from Brandeis University, and his MFA from the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art. He has exhibited nationally and internationally at venues including Ground Floor Gallery, (Brooklyn, NY), Blue Mark Gallery, (Atlanta, GA), Lorimoto Gallery, (Queens, NY), 500X Gallery, (Dallas TX), and Larry Becker Contemporary Art, (Philadelphia, PA). He is represented by Larry Becker Contemporary Art and is a member of Ground Floor Contemporary in Birmingham.
The University of Alabama Gallery is an essential part of the education and development of UA students and our community. Admission to the gallery is free. The gallery is in the Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center at 620 Greensboro Avenue in Tuscaloosa. It is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., and First Fridays 12 noon-7 p.m. Have questions or need assistance? Call (205) 345-3038.
To find out more about The University of Alabama’s programs in studio art and art history, visit our Degree Programs page.
