Corbert (Corbie) Gauthier ’73 has been selected for induction into the 2022 Pius X Fine Arts Hall of Fame for serving as a source of inspiration to students, alumni, and community members through his accomplished career as a painter and illustrator, and for his witness of the faith in creating beautiful religious art, which are helping to perpetuate the proud heritage of the Pius X fine arts program.
A realist painter and illustrator since his graduation from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design in 1983, Gauthier has received numerous awards from the Society of Illustrators, Print Regional Design Annual, and Communication Arts Illustration Annual.
Gauthier wrote of the impact of attending Pius X and receiving a scholarship toward his art education that helped launch his career as a professional artist:
When I attended Pius X [Class of 73], we operated under the Modular or “Mod” System. One advantage was increased flexibility in our daily schedule that allowed for more free time in the art room. I have many good memories of time spent there working with friends and classmates. I enjoyed both of my art teachers, Mary Lynn Reiser and Phil Perry, and always appreciated their encouraging instruction. They exposed us to many different techniques with a wide variety of assignments. I recall Mrs. Reiser taking us to Wilderness Park for sketching sessions. She also made an impression one day when she chastised me for not taking my work more seriously. I was embarrassed at the time but her comments stayed with me. Another special memory is going on a field trip to a silk-screening shop with Mr. Perry. I’ve always appreciated his efforts on my behalf. I especially enjoyed watching Mr. Perry work on his own painting projects while we toiled away on ours. It was very instructive to watch a real artist in action.
On graduation night the Pius X National Honor Society awarded me scholarship money towards an art education. Classmate Greg Baker and others were instrumental in the decision. Their kindness and encouragement have been a motivating factor my entire career.
With over 35 years of professional experience, Gauthier has worked for private, corporate, advertising and publishing clients. In recent years, Corbert has placed a major emphasis on Sacred and Religious Art, securing painting and mural commissions from a variety of sources. These projects are a very personal manifestation of his faith and an all-consuming effort to create the highest quality work that has lasting meaning and beauty.
In addition, he has worked on several mural projects for Conrad Schmitt Studios. Based in Milwaukee, Conrad Schmitt is an internationally recognized company that has been in business for more than a century, creating “timeless interiors and fine works of art for buildings of architectural, historical and religious significance.”
