Announcement

Alumnus Chris Daubert Has Died

Noted artist, educator, curator and alumnus Chris Daubert (M.F.A., ’88) died on May 22.  

Daubert’s drawings, paintings, and large-scale mixed-media installations have debuted in local and national exhibitions. His innovative artwork has appeared in countless periodicals and art catalogs, and he has published several art-related books, exhibition catalogs, and essays. Daubert served as the curator of the Richard L. Nelson Gallery at UC Davis, as well as at the Gregory Kondos Gallery at Sacramento City College, where he also taught art for 16 years. He co-founded the non-profit gallery ProArts in Oakland.

“Chris was always ready to help with energy and graciousness,” said Professor Annabeth Rosen, chair Department of Art and Art History. “He was a good colleague and worked in and around the department in support for many years, including a year’s commitment as the Interim Director/Curator of the Nelson Gallery. A kind man with a gentle manner, he will be missed.” 

Prior to entering UC Davis to pursue his M.F.A., Daubert earned both a B.A. and M.A. in art at San Jose State University. During his tenure at UC Davis, he served as a teaching assistant to Wayne Thiebaud. 

“For 35 years, as early teaching colleagues, professional peers, and friends, I witnessed Chris’s continued influence,” said artist and alumna Julia Couzens (M.F.A., art, ‘90). “With his signature oblique delivery and provocative intellect, Chris steadfastly worked to move the region’s visual culture forward.” 

At Sacramento City College, Daubert and his wife established the Christopher D. and Dana Daubert Endowment for Art Education to support management of the Gregory Kondos Gallery, as well as greater access to the college’s multimillion-dollar, permanent art collection for the enjoyment and education of students and the community. 

“Chris understood so well what was essential to making an art community possible,” said Liv Moe (B.A., art, ’05) director of Verge Center for the Arts in Sacramento. “He donated his time generously to both artists and institutions in equal measure and knew how and when to show up when it mattered. He was also always looking carefully, he saw potential in so many fellow artists in his decades long career and had an innate sense for how to nurture their individual visions.”

A celebration of his life is being planned for July.  

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