Marion Faller (1941-2014)

Text by Malik Shaw

 Marion Faller has documented hand-painted murals on streets and in public gathering places, such as this bowling alley. Muralist Myron Kawa’s artistry is contrasted, however, by the crowded, colorful scene. Linger over the subtleties of the details. The cool, snowy landscape mural painted above the bar lends a cozy feeling to the room, juxtaposing the frigidness outside with the warmth inside. Christmas lights, metallic stars and snowflakes play on the holiday’s association with the winter season.  A happy hour sign perched in the center sets a jolly tone. Rows of bottles , vertical displays of packaged snacks, family photographs on the cash register, and a half-consumed glass of beer invite viewers to step up to the bar.

In a 1986 interview for Buffalo’s Calendar Weekly, Marian Faller is quoted saying: “I almost never go out specifically to take a picture, I just happen to have my camera with me.” This photograph captures the magic in such a subtle approach.