Houston artist Bert Long passed away of pancreatic cancer earlier today. He was 72. This photo shows one of Long’s most recognizable pieces: “Field of Vision” is located across the street from Emancipation Park on the corner of Elgin and Bastrop, next door to the Eldorado Ballroom. Born in the Fifth Ward, Long worked as a Hyatt Regency executive chef before pursuing an arts career. “Bert would walk in anywhere. He’d do anything,” Long’s friend James Surls tells the Houston Chronicle. “He was unabashed and unafraid.”
- Biography [Bert Long]
- Houston artist Bert Long Jr. dies [Houston Chronicle]
Photo: Allyn West
First saw him speak at a gallery discussion, but then ran into him at the Downtown Y, mentioned I had seen his work and we talked for quite a while. Nice man, Houston icon.
Great work. You were an asset to Houston.
Talented artist. He will be missed. RIP Mr. Long.