Professor Geiger made a profound impact on my life. I never felt sure about painting in school and I think Professor Geiger knew that. When I was a second year and felt absolutely no direction forward in my work, he pulled me into his office and handed me a book on Alice Neel (whom I had never heard of). He told me my painting style was very similar to hers and that the world has space for more work like mine. He made me feel seen.
More importantly, during my fourth year in school, I experienced the sudden loss of my step-father and Professor Geiger was the first teacher I was able to talk to about it. I will never forget sitting through an early morning critique class with Professor Geiger the morning my step-father passed (I didn't know what else to do at the time). After the critique ended, I sat sobbing in his office while he shared how he dealt with his own father's passing. Professor Geiger was a safe space and a genuinely kind and caring advisor.
When I look back at my time at UVA, my memories are often overshadowed by the heaviness of that period in my life. However, my memories of being in the studio and with Professor Geiger remain strong, serene, and calming-- reflecting great lightness.
Introducing me to Alice Neel's work led to my first post-college internship at David Zwirner in NYC, which represents Neel's estate. Fourteen years and a few career shifts later, I can proudly say that I have been a full-time painter in NYC for the past five years. I owe much of my career to Professor Geiger's teaching.
Lighting a candle for him.
Warmly, Devon