Characterized by his minimalist use of collage and mixed media, Walters' work is highly intellectual, juxtaposing subtle influences from ancient European and Asian cultures, mythology and heraldry. Words and titles are important elements of Walters' work, helping to establish his artfully composed, sparse and exquisitely balanced style.

Walter became interested in art in the early 70’s, about the same time he started hearing voices in his head. He studied art history in high school, and was encouraged by his teachers to become a writer. After high school, he attended the University of Pittsburgh and Bennington College to study English literature. When psychiatric problems forced him to withdraw from school in 1985, he became a drifter and began developing his unique art while still living on the streets.

One of our most popular and prolific artists, Walter now lives in a boarding home in North Philadelphia and has been exhibiting with Coalition Ingenu consistently for the past six years. He works mostly at home or at the open studios of Project H.O.M.E. or J.F.K. M.H. Center, but much of the thought and planning behind his work results from reading dictionaries and reference books at the Philadelphia Free Library. Altered or manipulated photocopies of dictionary illustrations often appear in his compositions.

1. An amused sunray

Mixed media

11 x 14

NFS

2. Harrowden, Aztec (bayreuth, esp.)

Mixed media & collage

11 x 14

NFS

3. The Russian Czars

Mixed media & collage

11 x 14

NFS

4. Horae (#2)

Mixed media

11 x 14

5. caccique, w. indies (chief, sp. hispaniola)

mixed media & contact print

12 x 16

NFS

6. a denizen of the island of lotus blossoms

ball pen and india ink on paper

11 x 14

NFS