On Dec. 4, Durham Tech celebrated the life and legacy of prolific artist Elizabeth Reeves Lyon with an opening reception of “A Layered Legacy” art exhibit featuring her work in the D. Thomas Jaynes Gallery on Main Campus. The exhibit is on display until January 31.
Lyon, along with her husband, Robert L. Lyon, shaped the cultural landscape and transformed the city of Durham through their artistic and philanthropic endeavors.
With more than 20 pieces, Elizabeth Lyon’s work is the largest body of work by one artist in Durham Tech’s collection.
Robert Lyon served as the first chairman of Durham Tech’s Board of Trustees.
Also featured in the exhibit are two watercolor pieces by Ryann Carey, Durham Tech alumna. Carey was invited to participate in the exhibit because she, like Elizabeth Reeves Lyon, is a watercolorist.
The event opened with a welcome from Durham Tech Foundation Board chair, Ellen Shannon, who shared background on Viva the Arts, the College’s committee tasked with serving in an advisory capacity for activities that expand the interests and knowledge of students and area residents through celebrating diversity, sharing the arts and varied cultures and increasing community awareness.
In attendance were the Lyons’ daughters, Linda Lyon Turner and Dr. Mary Elizabeth “Beth” Lyon-Smith. Lyon-Smith shared sweet memories of both her parents, reiterated how important Durham and Durham Tech were to both and thanked the College for the wonderful event.
“My mother would have been fascinated in seeing Ryann Carey's beautiful watercolors and the nice presentation of all the artwork in the Jaynes Gallery,” Lyon-Smith said. “She would have been interested in learning the future plans for the gallery and promotion of art at Durham Technical Community College. My father would have been thrilled to see how the College has grown to meet the needs of the community. Both of my parents would have been pleased to learn how their scholarships had made the difference in so many students' lives.”
Tom Jaynes, for whom the gallery is named, shared memories and accomplishments of Robert Lyon and spoke about the importance of the arts at Durham Tech.
Durham Tech President J.B. Buxton shared closing remarks, reminding those in attendance of the upcoming arts events at Durham Tech. Those events include the Annual Student Art Exhibit in April, an alumni art exhibit in September, and a skilled trades art exhibit in January 2027. Also on the calendar are the next installment in the “Creatives in Conversation” periodic lecture series and a visit from the Poetry Fox during Poetry Month in April.