In The Harris Family Gallery

Because Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is such a mélange of surreal horror and bloody macabre events, I invited two artists whose art is all about fantasy, exaggeration and caricature to exhibit their work in the gallery.

Robert A. Kraus (RAK) has been in the Harris Family Gallery several times over the last few years. His work was featured most recently during the run of The Who’s Tommy. He was also in the gallery for The Hunchback of Notre Dame , Young Frankenstein and Dracula. Robert attended the University of Akron briefly before becoming the owner/creator of the independent company, RAK Graphics. This was one of the first independent Comic Book and Game Publishers. Robert is the sole designer and fantasy artist of the board game "Dragon War" and the hundreds of expansions to go with it. Robert is the creator of RAK Attack Monsters, a toy line of game pieces, and display and collectible 3D artworks. He also has a large offering of "Superfreeks,"  a superhero spoof series.  RAK is involved in many Comic Cons throughout the year, including the San Diego Comic Con, several Wizard World Cons and the Akron Comic Con. Visit www.rakgraphics.com to see all his work.

Our other artist is Petey Atkinson, a close friend and colleague of Robert A. Kraus. Petey was born and raised in Akron, but now lives in Columbus, OH. He usually visits Akron at least once a month.  Petey attended the Art Academy of Cincinnati and the San Francisco Academy of Art University.  He is an Army veteran and while in the service, served as an Army Multi-Media Specialist. Petey also participates in many of the comic conventions, most recently, the Akron Comic Con.

The artwork in the gallery is for sale. The artists have generously offered to donate a portion of the proceeds of all sales to Weathervane. If you wish to make a purchase, please inquire at the Box Office. Thank you for supporting the arts!

Marci Paolucci
Gallery Curator