The Cover Art

The cover art was provided by our colleagues at Elmhurst Art Museum. This is the first of a series of collaborations we will celebrate beginning with our next issue. We believe literature and art are two branches of the same tree, and we welcome our colleagues from across the way as partners in creative expression. —editor

The cover of this issue highlights Whitman Sampler, an acrylic painting on canvas created by Billy Hightower in 1982 (later donated to Elmhurst Art Museum by Mr. Greg Cameron in honor of his mother, Jean Cameron).

Hightower invites the viewer into an untold story. A blond woman in a sleeveless dress with a wide ruffle collar sits on a green and white striped settee, vividly splashed with pinks and purples. With assurance and confidence, she crosses her legs to the right and leans back, outstretching her arms, owning the space. She invites no one to join her, except an open, red, heart-shaped box of candy. With an uninvolved yet interested air, she looks to her left with an intent gaze at whatever—or whomever—is there.

Our selection of Hightower's Whitman Sampler is Elmhurst Art Museum's way of congratulating River Oak Review for moving us with the artistry of their words.

D. Neil Bremer, Executive Director
Melissa G. Dahlquist, Curator
Mary H. Savaiano, Curatorial Intern