Billy Foster's Appalachia Exhibition
Celebrating the life, artwork, and enduring legacy of one of Appalachia's most distinctive artists.
Billy Foster's Appalachia
Billy Foster's Appalachia celebrated the extraordinary life and artwork of West Virginia folk artist Billy Foster (1941–2005), whose vivid paintings documented the people, traditions, and landscapes of Appalachia. Curated by Jose L. Rizo in partnership with collector Benny Dunfee, the exhibition featured nearly fifty paintings, drawings, and prints from Dunfee's private collection—the largest public presentation of Foster's work in the region.
Hosted at The Grant Building in Beckley, the exhibition paired Foster's powerful storytelling with the work of seventeen contemporary West Virginia artists, creating a conversation between generations while honoring the culture, resilience, and creativity that define Appalachia.
The Legacy of Billy Foster
From Private Collection to Public Exhibition
The exhibition was made possible through the dedication of collector Benny Dunfee, who spent more than two decades preserving Billy Foster's artistic legacy. Having collected over one hundred fifty works by the artist, Dunfee assembled an extraordinary body of work that offered visitors a rare opportunity to experience Foster's evolution as an artist.
Together with curator Jose L. Rizo, the exhibition highlighted Foster's diverse body of work—from richly detailed oil paintings and expressive drawings to intricate pen-and-ink illustrations—revealing both the technical skill and emotional depth that made his artwork unlike any other.
Celebrating Appalachian Artists
Complementing Billy Foster's artwork was a juried exhibition featuring seventeen West Virginia artists whose work reflected the people, places, and spirit of Appalachia.
Featured artists included Fred Hays, John Coffey, Tom Acosta, Robert Walker, Gary Vaughan, Suzy Wiseman, Jamal Hoskins, Debbie Lester, Shelby Lynn Oreolt, Beni Holley, Kristen Colebank, and Shayar, along with first-time exhibitors Erica Fox, Jenny Frame, Julia Ashton, Taylor Rahn, and Michael Garten.
By presenting contemporary Appalachian artists alongside Foster's historic work, the exhibition demonstrated how the region's artistic traditions continue to evolve while remaining deeply rooted in local culture.
Art, Music, and Community
Held over six evenings at The Grant Building, Billy Foster's Appalachia created an immersive community experience that extended beyond the gallery walls.
Visitors enjoyed live music, local food, and community partnerships while exploring the exhibition at a relaxed pace. Each evening featured a different sponsoring organization and benefited local nonprofits, reinforcing the exhibition's commitment to strengthening the arts and supporting the communities that inspired the artwork itself.
More than simply an art show, the exhibition became a gathering place where stories were shared, friendships were formed, and Appalachian heritage was celebrated through creativity.
Preserving an Appalachian Legacy
Billy Foster's Appalachia reflects The Rizo Collection's commitment to preserving important artistic legacies while making exceptional artwork accessible to the public.
Through the partnership of curator Jose L. Rizo and collector Benny Dunfee, visitors experienced not only the remarkable artwork of Billy Foster but also the enduring stories of Appalachian life that inspired it. By pairing historic works with contemporary regional artists, the exhibition celebrated the past while ensuring that Appalachia's artistic voice continues to inspire future generations.